A tongue-in-cheek guide to cornhole stardom!
 |  Cool as Ice! |  |
Do you know what it's like to be at the top of the cornhole food chain? I don't, but that won't stop me from telling you how to get there. Prior to jumping in, let's just be clear that you can continue to enjoy this wonderful game without doing any of the following...now on to some satirical advice that may actually teach you something!
1. Play as often as you can
Let's file this under do as I say, not as I do! And that's unfortunate because if I'm playing two or more times per week, my mechanics and confidence are on point. Luckily, for those of you who are more dedicated and possibly more talented, there are several opportunities each week to work on your game. Whether you are challenging the big dogs in an alphabet organization, playing in your weekly league, or making unwanted invasions at charity events, the key thing is that you are playing! Not only is it mechanical practice, but you will see different opponents, different situations and adapt to them. Perhaps your strategy is different without a stud partner 27 feet across from you? Can you come from behind?
2. You don't play better with a buzz!
I always chuckle when people tell me that they play better after a few drinks. If you are tossing against me and you tell me this, I will buy you a drink! Actually, I won't, but you get the point. I am not trying to take the fun away from you, but we are talking about an elite level. Let's not debate science and cornhole, but I won't be convinced that alcohol or any substance that impairs motor skills and coordination will help you in a game that is based on motor skills and coordination. Showing up a bit early and taking a practice match will prepare you better than any bartender can! Spoiler Alert: Global Warming is real too!
3. Be Fit
Do you have to be in shape to play cornhole? Maybe or maybe not. I would argue that it can only help. Some of the most competitive events are very long days and a level of physical fitness could be an advantage; that goes for directors too! In the current landscape, either these Logitech Cameras are adding 20-200 lbs or we have an opportunity for improvement. I believe the champions of tomorrow will be athletes. If your occupation does not warrant physical activity, perhaps hitting the gym or the roads would be a good idea. At the very least, a good workout will make you feel good about yourself and that's terrific, right?
4. Bitch Be Cool!
Mental fortitude is just as important as raw talent. Some of the top players can sometimes unravel between the ears. Let's face it, you are not going to hit every airmail and things may not always go your way. When they don't, bitch be cool! Mike Ferreira always seems to keep his cool. Whether he is putting up 90+ points in league play as a sub for someone who is physically present or going 0-2 representing Boston Cornhole in Florida, that MFer has the same demeanor. And that's ok because I'm cool with it...
5. Find your Edge!
Perhaps the opposite of being cool is finding that competitive fire! How do you gain that edge on your opponents? Some wear earbuds and pump music into their heads, one guy barks, and another likes to talk trash on the boards (and NOT subsequently pepper the front of the boards with bags). Or maybe you find motivation in leaving yourself voicemail!? Whatever it may be, please keep in mind, that now more than ever, people are watching and that includes sponsors.