It’s springtime in the Smoky Mountains, and the weather is perfect for being outdoors. Not too cold, not too hot! During this time of year, there are wildflowers all throughout the mountains and creatures are coming out to explore. If you’re wanting to get out and see the beauty of nature this spring, you’ll definitely want to try out 4 of the best spring hikes in the Smoky Mountains. 1. Cove Hardwood Nature TrailKnown as the best trail to see wildflowers, the Cove Hardwood Nature Trail is definitely one of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains. With a length of 0.75 of a mile, this hike is simple for the youngest and oldest people who want to see nature! Some of the flowers you’ll see during the spring are Dutchman’s breeches, squirrel corn, wild ginger, white fringed phacelia, white trillium, and yellow trillium. 2. Schoolhouse GapBetween Townsend and Cades Cove, Schoolhouse Gap is a 3.8-mile roundtrip trail that is great for seeing all kinds of wildflowers. At first, you’ll come across Virginia bluebells, then beaked violets, golden aster, lyre-leaf sage, red clover, star grass, sun drops, and trillium. You’ll definitely want to stop and take pictures of all the flowers you see. Streams and creeks are also along this trail, and horses are allowed to walk on this trail. You should be careful since bears and other wildlife have been known to frequent this trail. It is also great for families since it’s fairly easy to walk. 3. Little River TrailFor something more moderate in difficulty, you should try the Little River Trail. It is a large loop, so you only have to walk in one direction. The entire trail is 5.6 miles long. You walk along a river for a good portion of the trail, allowing you to watch the water run over rocks and watch creatures in the water like fish and salamanders. After about 2.2 miles, you’ll find Husky Branch Falls, a 20-foot cascade. At the beginning of the hike, there are old cottages built in the 1920s that are neat to see. As far as wildflowers go, you’ll find Canadian violets, crested dwarf iris, rhododendron, spring beauties, trailing arbutus, and yellow trillium. 4. Porters Creek TrailThe Porters Creek Trail is a 7-mile trail that is moderately hiked and fairly moderate when it comes to difficulty. For the first mile, you’ll walk along a gravel trail where yellow trillium line the sides. You’ll also be able to see Porters Creek while you walk. After about a mile, there’s a split in the trail; the right side goes to an old farmstead where you can see an old cabin and cantilevered barn. When you go left at the split, you’ll be heading towards Fern Branch Falls, which is 60 feet tall. All along this trail, you’ll see all kinds of wildflowers, including baneberry, blue phlox, May apples, Jack-in-the-pulpits, violets, wild geranium, and woodland bluets. About Rocky Top Sports WorldWe are a sports facility that hosts a variety of tournaments, birthday parties, events, and more. With 7 outdoor fields and a 86,000-square-foot indoor facility, we can accommodate just about any event. We also host different kinds of camps for kids throughout the year. For more information about us, check out our about us page. The post 4 of the Best Spring Hikes in the Smoky Mountains appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/best-spring-hikes-smoky-mountains/
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Are you a basketball player who wants to improve your skills or a coach who wants to change up your routine? Then the Breakthrough Basketball Camp in Gatlinburg is the program for you! The camp is broken into two sessions: one for younger players who need to improve on basic skills and older players who want to fine tune their skills. Read on to learn more about the Breakthrough Basketball Camp. The First SessionThe first session runs from June 25, 2019 through Thursday June 27, 2019. All three days, the camp starts at 9 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. Boys and girls in 7th to 12th grade can attend this session, and there are 60 slots. Coaches who want to watch and implement the strategies during the sessions may also attend. Don Kelbick, the camp director, has over 35 years of experience coaching high school, college, and professional basketball players. He’s conducted over 1,000 camps and clinics, helping players improve in all areas of the game. Kelbick has created an Attack and Counter Strategy that implements key skills, especially in footwork and mentality, two of the most important aspects. Skills and Topics CoveredFootwork is covered to show how to place feet in a specific position to be able to score from anywhere on the court. You’ll learn how to guard the ball while moving it down the court and improve ball handling skills. Screening and cutting are covered to learn how to move when you don’t have the ball and get open to be able to get the ball. A tough mentality is also taught to block out everything going on and focus on the game. Practicing the SkillsKelbick will demonstrate the new skill or drill in front of everyone and explain the reasons behind why the skill or drill is important. Once Kelbick has finished, players are split into groups and work with designated coaches to practice the new skill or drill. As a new skill is introduced, this “show and go” pattern is followed. To put these new skills to practice, players will do competitive breakdown drills, which are slightly different than the 5-on-5 practice games that are usually used. The Second SessionThe second session runs July 30, 2019 through August 1, 2019. Each day, the basketball camp in Gatlinburg is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This session is for 4th through 9th graders/ All of the kids will be split into groups based on skill level and age. Skills and Topics CoveredKids will learn how to handle the ball on the court and dribble effectively. Proper footwork is taught to get the ball to go where you want it to. Finishing techniques will reduce the amount of turnovers, and improving quickness will help with defense and rebounding. Coaches will go over how to cut and get open so you will get the ball and be able to score. Plus, improve hand-eye coordination with passing skills. Practicing the SkillsOnce the kids go over these skills and drills, they will be able to apply them during a game setting. The way the games are set up, players get to utilize their new skills. Players can earn points for playing properly and lose points for little effort and execution. Additional InformationThe Breakthrough Basketball Camp is located at our state-of-the-art sports campus: Rocky Top Sports World Get more information on the Breakthrough Basketball Camp in Gatlinburg, then sign up today to reserve a spot. Don’t miss this great opportunity to hone your child’s skills! The post All You Need to Know About the Breakthrough Basketball Camp in Gatlinburg appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/all-need-know-breakthrough-basketball-camp-in-gatlinburg/ After a big win, there is no better way to celebrate than by heading to one of the delicious restaurants in the Smoky Mountains! The Smokies are home to places to eat that are both kid friendly and great for groups. To help you decide where you should eat after your game, we’ve made a list of 5 of the best Smoky Mountain restaurants to celebrate a big win. 1. Big Daddy’s PizzeriaEveryone loves pizza! Big Daddy’s Pizzeria is voted the most kid friendly restaurant, so it’s a top choice for a place to eat with your youth sports team. All of the pizza at Big Daddy’s starts with handcrafted, homemade dough that is topped with one of their homemade sauces and fresh ingredients. Your team can choose from a variety of pizza options, from the classic cheese and pepperoni to specialty pies like Meatball Mania and The Great White. There is something for everyone to enjoy at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria! 2. CiCi’s PizzaWhat better way to celebrate a big win than with endless slices of pizza? Take your youth sports team to CiCi’s Pizza for all the pizza, pasta, salad, and dessert they can eat! Their pizza comes traditional, deep dish, or flatbread and is made with dough that’s made from scratch. Enjoy everything from supreme pizza to mac & cheese pizza! Make sure you save room for dessert! Their dessert pizzas, cinnamon rolls, and brownies are enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. CiCi’s is perfect for groups and even has a game room everyone can play in after they eat! 3. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is the perfect place to have your celebratory dinner after a big win! They are experts in great food and great fun. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. has both a tasty kid’s menu and adult menu, so no matter what age your team is, there is a delicious meal waiting for you. The menus include everything from popcorn shrimp, to baby back ribs, to sandwiches, to fish and chips! You will love enjoying a hearty meal with your team after a hard-fought win. 4. Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-QueBennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que is another restaurant that’s great for groups! With a private area that seats about 45 people, the whole team can celebrate the win together. This restaurant has been voted to have the best barbeque and the best ribs in town! The menu includes a variety of options, from burgers, to pulled pork, to wings. Your team will love celebrating the big win at one of the best Smoky Mountain restaurants! 5. FlapJack’s Pancake CabinNo one can say no to pancakes! After your big win, head to Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin for the best pancakes you’ve ever tasted. This restaurant is one of the best in the area for groups, so you won’t have to worry about the team getting split up and can all celebrate the win together! If you’re not in the mood for pancakes, the restaurant serves all your favorite breakfast foods, like waffles and French toast, as well as a variety of sandwiches. Everyone on the team will love dining at FlapJack’s! About Rocky Top Sports WorldLocated just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, Rocky Top Sports World is one of the best tournament destinations in the nation. With 7 fields, 6 basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, team rooms, and an onsite grill, our 80-acre athletic complex has everything you need for a great sports event. Check out our Tournaments page to read about all the fun at Rocky Top Sports World in the upcoming months! The post 5 of the Best Smoky Mountain Restaurants to Celebrate a Big Win appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/best-smoky-mountain-restaurants-celebrate/ When your child plays youth sports, we know you want to be the best parent you can be and make sure they’re set up for success! The most important thing to do is make sure your child is happy and having fun. It’s easy to get caught up in the game just like the players and coaches do, but you should always set a good example for your child. Check out these 8 tips for parents with kids who play youth sports: 1. Let them know having fun is the most important.One of the most important tips to keep in mind is to make sure your young athlete is having fun. Let them know that having fun should always come before anything else. Most kids go into a sport thinking that winning is the goal, and your job is to show them that the real goal is enjoying themselves. Win or lose, the only thing that matters is if they have a good time both during practice and during games. 2. Don’t live your dreams through your children.Another tip to keep in mind is to make sure you’re not living your dreams through your children. Don’t force them to play basketball just because you played basketball as a child, or because you missed an opportunity to become a young basketball star. If you find yourself caring more about how well your child plays than they do, it may be a sign to take a step back. Let your young athlete create their own path instead of following the path you have for them in your head. 3. Make sure your children are eating and drinking right.You can’t control what happens on the court or field, but you can control what they are putting into their bodies. As a parent, it’s your job to make sure your children are eating and drinking right. Without proper nutrition and hydration, young athletes will feel sluggish. This makes it more likely for them to get injured. Dehydration also increases the risk of heat illness. 4. Always be supportive.Win or lose, always be supportive of your young athlete. If they have a bad game and are feeling down on themselves, give them encouragement. Let them know that it’s not about winning or losing and more about focusing on fun. You should even make a point to cheer for all players on the team and not just your own child as a show of support for the team! 5. Be a positive role model.Make sure that you’re being a positive role model and setting a good example for your child. Treat the other players and the coach with respect, and your child will be more likely to do so. It’s also important to set a good example of being active. Get outside and play with each other! If they see you up and moving it’ll motivate them to get up too! 6. Let the coach do the coaching.While you may want to step in and give out pointers to your child, always let the coach do the coaching. The biggest problem with parents coaching is you might be telling them one thing while the coach is telling them another. It’s important to keep the roles of being a parent and being a coach separate. It’s your job to encourage them to be better and work hard, but leave it to the coach to tell them how to play the game. 7. Volunteer to help the team.Volunteering to help the team isn’t required, but it’s never a bad idea! Youth sports largely depends on contributions from willing parents. The more people who are willing to help out, the easier it will be for everyone. Volunteering to help involves things like selling tickets, filling drink bottles, anything you can do to lend a hand! 8. Encourage positive life lessons.You should leave the coaching to the coach, but what you can do is encourage positive life lessons. Talk to them about the importance of commitment, and remind them of the commitments they’ve made to the team. You can also teach them about perseverance. Don’t let them get discouraged if they’re playing badly. Explain to them that it takes hard work and dedication to be good at something. About Rocky Top Sports WorldLocated just minutes away from the heart of Gatlinburg, Rocky Top Sports World is one of the best tournament destinations in the country! With seven fields, six basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, team rooms, and an on-site grill, our 80-acre athletic complex has everything you need for an incredible sports event. Check out our Tournaments page to read about all of the fun happening at our complex in the upcoming months! The post 8 Tips for Parents with Kids Who Play Youth Sports appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/tips-parents-with-kids-youth-sports/ When you hear the name Pat Summitt, one word comes to mind: legend. Pat Summitt was the head coach of the University of Tennessee Lady Vols and is the all-time winningest coach in college basketball history for both men’s and women’s teams! She had 1,098 career wins and 8 NCAA championships during her 38 seasons with the Lady Vols. Throughout her coaching career, Summitt became known for her inspirational leadership. Here are some of her most inspirational quotes: 1. Goals“It’s harder to stay on top than it is to make the climb. Continue to seek new goals.”Whatever sport you play, it’s important to set new goals for yourself and always strive to be better. 2. Loyalty“The absolute heart of loyalty is to value those people who tell you the truth, not just those people who tell you what you want to hear. In fact, you should value them most. Because they have paid you the compliment of leveling with you and assuming you can handle it.”Loyalty is an important part of teamwork. You should value both your coach and your team members in order to build a strong relationship and work well together. 3. Attitude“Attitude is a choice. What you think you can do, whether positive or negative, confidence or scared, will most likely happen.”Attitude plays a big part in how you perform on the court. Go in to each practice and game with a positive and confident mindset, and you will perform better. 4. Commitment“Quit? Quit? We keep score in life because it matters. It counts. Too many people opt out and never discover their own abilities, because they fear failure. They don’t understand commitment. When you learn to keep fighting in the face of potential failure, it gives you a larger skill set to do what you want to do.”Don’t let the fear of failure keep you from playing the game. When you commit to your team and the sport, you will grow as a player and come out stronger in the end. 5. Confidence“Confidence is what happens when you’ve done the hard work that entitles you to succeed.”Once you’ve put in the hard work to get better, you’ll have more confidence in yourself and your ability. Confidence leads to success. 6. Change“Change equals self improvement. Push yourself to places you haven’t been before.”Don’t be afraid of change. Oftentimes change means self improvement. In both practice and games, always try to push yourself to places you haven’t been before. 7. Success“Success is all a matter of perspective. It depends on where you start from, and where you want to end up.”Success can be measured in a number of ways. Success doesn’t have to mean winning the game. It’s all about the goals you set for yourself and the steps you take to achieve them. 8. Winning“Winning is fun … Sure. But winning is not the point. Wanting to win is the point. Not giving up is the point. Never letting up is the point. Never being satisfied with what you’ve done is the point.”Winning isn’t everything. Of course, you should go into every game wanting to win, but don’t let that be your only focus. It’s more about the journey of getting there and striving to be better every time you step on the court or field. 9. Keep Fighting“When you learn to keep fighting in the face of potential failure, it gives you a larger skill set to do what you want to do in life. It gives you vision. But you can’t acquire it if you’re afraid of keeping score.”It’s important to never give up, no matter what you’re afraid the outcome will be. Don’t let the idea of failing keep you from playing the game. When you keep fighting to overcome failure and get better, you’ll end up growing as an athlete and as a person. 10. Competition“There is always someone better than you. Whatever it is that you do for a living, chances are, you will run into a situation in which you are not as talented as the person next to you. That’s when being a competitor can make a difference in your fortunes.”Don’t let the idea of competition scare you. There will always be someone better than you. Let that competition push you to become stronger, not just in sports but in all aspects of life. 2nd Annual Tennessee Legend ClassicThe 2nd Annual Tennessee Legend Classic will be held at Rocky Top Sports World April 13-14, 2019. It’s open to girls’ basketball teams in 4th through 11th grade. The event is hosted by the GBA National Staff and benefits the Pat Summitt Foundation. The Pat Summitt Foundation was founded by Coach Summitt soon after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011. It awards grants to nonprofits that conduct research for a cure, provide support for patients and caregivers, and promote education and awareness of Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more about the 2nd Annual Tennessee Legend Classic and how you can participate! The post 10 Most Inspirational Quotes from Legendary Basketball Coach Pat Summitt appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/inspirational-quotes-coach-pat-summitt/ If you’ve never been to a tournament in the Smoky Mountains, it can be stressful figuring out what to pack, where to stay, and how to prepare for the tournament itself. That’s why we’re here to help! Our Smoky Mountain sports complex is the host of plenty of tournaments and events throughout the year, and we know all the best ways for you to prepare. Find out the top ways to prepare for your first sports tournament in the Smoky Mountains: What to PackPacking for your first sports tournament can be a hassle because you want to make sure you don’t forget anything! The most important things to remember are your uniform, shoes, and a water bottle. You’ll also want to bring clothes to practice in, as well as comfortable outfits for when you have downtime in the Smoky Mountains. Other things to consider bringing are a rain jacket, a first-aid kit, headphones, and an umbrella. Click here for a complete list of what you should bring for your sports tournament. How to Calm Your NervesIt’s completely normal to be nervous before your first sports tournament! The most important thing is not to let your nerves get the best of you. Try calming yourself down with deep breathing, or listening to music to help get you focused. It also helps if you have a plan for game day, like eating a healthy breakfast and arriving early to the game to warm up. If you still feel a little nervous, use those pre-game jitters to your advantage! Being nervous just means you care about doing your best, so channel that energy into your performance. Where to StayOur sports complex is close to plenty of lodging options in the Smoky Mountains. Whether you want to stay in a cabin or a hotel, you’ll have your choice of comfortable place to stay. If you want to be within walking distance of all the popular Gatlinburg attractions, a hotel or condo would be the best option. If you want a more peaceful mountain getaway, a cabin is perfect! If you’re staying with your teammates, there are large group cabins available that are great for team-building and have enough space for everyone. What to Do While You’re HereWhile you’re in the Smoky Mountains, take some time to enjoy everything that the area has to offer. Your main focus should be your tournament, but after it’s over, you should explore all the incredible attractions and restaurants in Gatlinburg! Here are some of the best Gatlinburg attractions and restaurants to visit with your team: Outdoor AdventuresIf you visit during rafting season, you have to try white water rafting with your group! At Outdoor Adventures, you can navigate your way through Class III and IV rapids on the Pigeon River. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or have never been before, the professional guides ensure you have a great time. Rafting season begins in the spring. Great Smoky Mountains National ParkOf course your visit to the Smoky Mountain area wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Your team can go for a hike and might even have the chance to spot some wildlife! Some popular trails for your team to try are Laurel Falls, the Gatlinburg Trail, and Trillium Gap Trail. Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-QueFor a delicious breakfast before your game, visit Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que. They have a semi-private dining area to accommodate your team, and offer a delicious breakfast buffet. Get the energy you need for your tournament from eggs, sausage, bacon, fruit, waffles, and more! Big Daddy’s PizzeriaBig Daddy’s Pizzeria is perfect for your team dinner! Everyone loves pizza, and Big Daddy’s takes their pizza to the next level with handcrafted, homemade dough. It’s topped with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients. You can choose from a variety of delicious options, like Meatball Mania and Porky Pie. Sports Tournament in the Smoky Mountains at Rocky Top Sports WorldRocky Top Sports World is one of the nation’s best tournament destinations. We have seven fields, six basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, team rooms, and an onsite grill. We host a number of tournaments throughout the year. Learn more about our facilities and get ready for a fun first tournament in the Smoky Mountains! The post Ways to Prepare for Your First Sports Tournament in the Smoky Mountains appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/ways-prepare-sports-tournament-smoky-mountains/ Over the last 10 years, martial arts has become more popular in the United States. Instead of the traditional youth sports like football, basketball, and soccer, more kids are wanting to get involved in martial arts — and their parents support it too! At Rocky Top Sports World, we’ve held our fair share of martial arts events and tournaments. Read on to find out 5 benefits of youth martial arts and why it’s becoming more popular. 1. Self-defenseMartial arts is among the oldest forms of self-defense. Both parents and kids can rest easy knowing that they can defend themselves if they need to. Martial arts teaches youth to mentally and physically refrain from violence and only use it as a last resort for self-defense. They will learn how to protect themselves with both their mental and physical strength. 2. Self-ConfidenceMartial arts is also a great confidence booster. The more skills you learn, the more powerful you’ll feel. There will be no greater feeling than earning a new belt and reaching the next milestone. As your child works their way up the ranks, they’ll see how their hard work is paying off. The more they accomplish, the more comfortable they’ll be with their ability and won’t be afraid to step outside their comfort zone and try new things. 3. Stay ActiveSimilar to any youth sport, martial arts is a great way to stay active. Unlike other sports, however, martial arts provides a whole body workout. Not only does it require strength, but it is great for developing motor skills and coordination. It combines both mental and physical toughness. Regardless of what form of martial arts your child is practicing, it will get them up and moving. 4. RespectMartial arts is also great for teaching youth to have respect for themselves and others. They will learn to respect their instructor and those around them. Martial arts instructors will bring up the idea of respect regularly and instruct students to practice respect for themselves, their parents, their teachers, and their peers. 5. Setting Goals & Self-DisciplineMartial arts also teaches youth about setting goals and being disciplined enough to reach them. Once they have a goal in mind, such as earning a new belt, they will learn to focus and see it through until that goal is reached. The self-discipline they learn can be carried through to all other aspects of life, from chores at home to assignments for school. Why Youth Martial Arts Is Getting More PopularYouth martial arts is becoming increasingly popular because it can benefit a person on multiple levels. It’s not just about physical fitness and being strong, it’s about mental toughness as well. Children learn values they can take with them and apply to many different aspects of life. Martial arts teaches kids the fundamental discipline they need to succeed in both school and life. Youth Martial Arts at Rocky Top Sports WorldOur 80-acre state-of-the-art sports complex is the perfect spot for a martial arts event or tournament. There is plenty of space for mats and bleacher seating for spectators. We are located in Gatlinburg, TN and just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and all the incredible attractions, restaurants, and shops in the area. To learn more about everything we have to offer, check out the Rocky Top Sports World Facilities page. The post 5 Benefits of Youth Martial Arts and Why It’s Becoming More Popular appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/benefits-youth-martial-arts-becoming-popular/ To get pumped up before a big game, the best thing to do is listen to a warm-up song! Nothing gives you that rush of adrenaline you need more than one of your favorite songs. To help you decide what to put on your pre-game playlist, we’ve made a list of some of the best songs to warm up to. 1. “Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor“Eye of the Tiger” is a classic warm-up song! The song was released in 1982 and still is popular today. It was featured in the movie “Rocky III,” and continues to be a great workout and warm-up song. Lyrics include, “It’s the eye of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the fight. Risin’ up to the challenge of our rival.” 2. “Hall of Fame” – The ScriptWouldn’t you love to be in the hall of fame? This song by The Script will get you ready for anything. “Hall of Fame” was released in 2012 and includes lyrics like, “Standing in the hall of fame. And the world’s gonna know your name. ‘Cause you burn with the brightest flame. And the world’s gonna know your name.” 3. “Let It Rock” – Kevin Rudolf ft. Lil WayneWhen you hear “Let It Rock” echoing through the gymnasium, you’ll feel unstoppable. This song by Kevin Rudolf and Lil Wayne came out in 2008 and will get you pumped up before any game. Lyrics include, “Because when I arrive I, I’ll bring the fire. Make you come alive.” 4. “Firework” – Katy Perry“Firework” by Katy Perry was released in 2010 and has been getting people pumped ever since! The lyrics are motivational, and the beat makes you want to get up and move around. Lyrics include, “You just gotta ignite the light. And let it shine. Just own the night. Like the Fourth of July. ‘Cause baby you’re a firework. Come on show ’em what your worth.” 5. “Shake It Off” – Taylor SwiftNothing will get you pumped up more than “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift! This is the perfect warm-up song that will keep you up and on your feet. Lyrics include, “’Cause the players gonna play, play, play, play, play And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate Baby, I’m just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake.” 6. “Can’t Hold Us” – Macklemore“Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis will you get you up and jumping around! This song was released in 2012. Lyrics include, “This is the moment. Tonight is the night, we’ll fight ‘til it’s over. So we put our hands up.” You’ll be ready for anything when you listen to this song! 7. “Believer” – Imagine DragonsOne of the best songs to warm up to before a game is “Believer.” This Imagine Dragons song was released in 2018 and is just what you need to listen to when you warm up. Lyrics include “You made me a, you made me a believer, believer. You break me down, you built me up, believer, believer.” 8. “I Gotta Feeling” – The Black Eyed PeasRight before you take the court or field, listen to “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas. You’ll feel like you’re ready to take on any challenge. Lyrics include, “Here we come, here we go, we gotta rock. Easy come, easy go, now we on top.” 9. “Jump” – Van Halen“Jump” is another classic! This Van Halen song has been around for years, but it’s still one of the best songs to warm up to before any youth sports game. Not only will it make you want to “jump,” but it’ll get you pumped! Lyrics include, “I get up, and nothin’ gets me down. You got it tough, I’ve seen the toughest around … Might as well jump.” 10. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – JourneyIf you’ve ever been to a sporting event, chances are you’ve heard “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey playing in the background at some point. If you want to get pumped up, put this song on your warm-up playlist! Lyrics include, “Don’t stop believing. Hold on to that feeling.” Bonus Track – “We Are the Champions”After the game, you can’t go wrong giving “We Are the Champions” by Queen a listen. If you win, it’s the perfect celebratory song! About Rocky Top Sports WorldRocky Top Sports World is one of the top tournament destinations in the United States. With 7 fields, 6 basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, team rooms, and an on-site grill, our campus has everything you need and more for your sports event. Browse our Rocky Top Sports World Events Calendar to see a complete list of our upcoming tournaments. The post 10 of the Best Songs to Warm Up to Before a Big Game appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/songs-to-warm-up-to-before-game/ The Smoky Mountains are a beautiful winter wonderland! When you visit during this season, take some time to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and choose from more than 850 miles of trails to hike. From frozen waterfalls to snow-covered mountaintops, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous views. Here are 4 of the best winter hikes in the Smoky Mountains to try when you visit: 1. Alum Cave TrailTo see the most impressive icicle formations, hike the Alum Cave Trail! It’s about a 4.5-mile hike to Alum Cave and back, and worth every step. At about 2 miles into the trail, you’ll reach Inspiration Point, which offers incredible views. A little further and you’ll reach Alum Cave, a concave bluff that is about 80 feet in height and 500 feet in length. During the winter, the water that drips off the ledges above form large icicles. It’s a stunning sight you don’t want to miss! The trail continues up to the summit of Mount LeConte, the third-highest peak in the Smoky Mountains. 2. Rainbow Falls TrailRainbow Falls Trail is a 5.4-mile round-trip hike to the waterfall and back. The trail gains about 1,500 feet in elevation on its way to the falls, so it’s considered moderate in difficulty. However, the views you’ll get when you reach the falls make it well worth it. During the winter, an ice formation builds around the 80-foot waterfall, creating a picture-perfect sight. If you want to continue your hike after you reach the falls, the trail continues 4 miles to the summit of Mount LeConte. 3. Porters Creek TrailFrom historic sites to a waterfall, the Porters Creek Trail has it all. It’s known for its variety of wildflowers during the spring, but it’s just as beautiful during the winter! It’s one of the best trails to hike in the Smoky Mountains during winter because it has easy car access and lower elevation, meaning there aren’t any strenuous climbs. It’s a perfect trail for the family to complete together! You’ll see John Messer’s cantilevered barn that was built in 1875, the Smoky Mountain Hiking Club Cabin that was built in 1934-36, and a 40-foot waterfall. When temperatures are cold enough, you can see the waterfall in its frozen state! 4. Andrews BaldTo get to Andrews Bald, you’ll take the Forney Ridge Trail from the Clingmans Dome parking lot. Andrews Bald is an outstanding destination for who want to see breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountain highlands. At 3.5 miles roundtrip, the hike is just long enough to escape the crowds at Clingmans Dome, but just short enough for the whole family to enjoy. Enjoy views of the mountaintops covered in snow. Be sure to bring a camera with you to capture the incredible scenery. About Rocky Top Sports WorldLocated minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg, Rocky Top Sports World is one of the very best tournament destinations in the nation. Boasting 7 fields, 6 basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts, team rooms, and an onsite grill, our 80-acre athletic complex has everything you need for an unforgettable sports event. Check out our Tournaments page to read about all of the fun arriving at Rocky Top Sports World in the coming months. The post 4 Best Winter Hikes in the Smoky Mountains to Try When You Visit appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/winter-hikes-in-the-smoky-mountains/ Sometimes it’s not until you’re given a challenge that you realize how strong you are. When you play youth sports, you learn the importance of working hard to achieve goals, like winning a game. There have been many youth athletes who have overcome obstacles to have a shining moment, and it’s these moments that become an inspiration to other youth athletes. Here are 4 true youth sports stories that will inspire you. 1. Lainy Fredrickson Makes Final BucketIt was Lainy Fredrickson’s senior year when she faced her first minutes on the court for the Norman High School Lady Tigers. Lainy is special needs and is a Special Olympics veteran, so she knew what she had to do when she stepped foot on the court: get in scoring position. It was the final minutes of a game against the school’s arch-rival, but Lainy didn’t let the pressure get to her. Although she missed her first few attempts, the encouragement from both the crowd and her teammates kept her going. She banked in the last shot of the game and was greeted with thunderous applause! Lainy’s story inspires everyone to chase their dreams and shows that with the encouragement from teammates, anything is possible. 2. Spencer Wilson Hits Buzzer BeaterSpencer Wilson was a 17-year-old student and basketball player at Bishop Mcguinness Catholic High School when he played in one of the most important games of his life: the Dedication Game. For the Dedication Game, each player dedicated the game to a special person in his life. Spencer chose to dedicate the game to Josh Rominger, who lost his battle with cancer the previous year. Spencer and Josh became close through their experiences fighting cancer. Just 3 years prior, Spencer had been given just 6 months to live and now is a 2-time cancer survivor. Spencer knew he had to put his heart and soul into the Dedication Game to honor his friend. Bishop McGuinness was trailing by a point with just seconds left on the clock. Spencer got the ball and launched it from half-court. The shot banked in, giving Bishop McGuinness the win. Spencer’s youth sports story inspires everyone to play for someone, whether it’s a friend, family member, or role model, and channel that energy while you’re on the court or field. 3. 10-Year-Old Makes Her First BasketTen-year-old Lilly Biagini is no stranger to loss. Lilly was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, a condition that meant there were no joints in Lilly’s lower body. She used a wheelchair until the age of 6, then ultimately convinced doctors to perform a surgery that enabled her to have prosthetic legs. In October 2017, Lilly lost her home and everything she and her family owned, including her prosthetic legs, in the California fires. But Lilly didn’t let that stop her. She was fitted for a new pair of prosthetic legs that gave her even more mobility. Lilly attended a Harlem Globetrotters game and had the opportunity to meet Zeus McClurkin, who later visited her at her school and had her show him her gymnasium. Lilly didn’t have the upper body strength to make a shot on a 10-foot hoop, but Zeus taught her an old Globetrotter technique — bouncing the ball to reach the basket! Lilly tried out the technique and made her first basket ever! Lilly’s story inspires kids not to give up when things get hard and one day you’ll hit your lucky shot. 4. Little League Coach Gives Heartwarming Pep Talk After LossLittle League Coach Dave Belisle had some inspiring words for his Rhode Island team after they lost in a Little League World Series elimination game. The team lost 8-7, and the close loss left many of the players in tears. Coach Belisle wanted the kids to know that the loss shouldn’t take away from their other victories and how well they played together as a team. “There’s no disappointment in your effort — in the whole tournament, the whole season. It’s been an incredible journey … The lessons you guys have learned along the journey, you’re never going to forget.” He went on to say, “It’s OK to cry, because we’re not going to play baseball together anymore. But we’re going to be friends forever.” This story is the perfect example of how all youth sports coaches should act — encouraging their team and teaching them important life lessons along the way. About Rocky Top Sports WorldCreate some inspiring youth sports stories of your own at Rocky Top Sports World! We are located just minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg and are one of the top tournament destinations in the United States! Our 80-acre athletic campus has everything you need for an amazing sports event. Check out all of our upcoming camps, and get your kids involved in youth sports! The post 4 True Stories About Youth Sports That Will Inspire You appeared first on Rocky Top Sports World. from https://rockytopsportsworld.com/blog/inspiring-youth-sports-stories/ |