ABCA Podcast

National High School Invitational (NHSI) - Part I

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

We made our annual trip to Cary for the USA Baseball National High School Invitational (NHSI) to sit down with some of our ABCA member coaches competing on one of the biggest stages in high school baseball.

In this episode, we’re joined by:

Andy Rojo – St. John Bosco (CA)
Dennis Barth – Gloucester Catholic (NJ)
Greg Elie – Baylor School (TN)
Matt Denny – Casteel (AZ)

These conversations highlight what it takes to prepare for elite national competition, how each program builds its culture, and what it means to represent their school on a stage like NHSI.

Always one of the best events of the year, NHSI continues to bring together top programs, players, and coaches from across the country, and this episode gives you a front-row seat to it all!

Baseball is a story told across generations — through the players, the moments, and the gloves that shape the game. Now, that story comes to life in Rawlings’ "The Finest in the Field" book, available now for pre-sale at Rawlings.com! Each of the 50 gloves is presented through detailed photography and paired with immersive essays that place the artifact within its historical context. Captivating imagery, period advertisements, and additional memorabilia further illuminate the era each glove represents.Reserve your copy today at Rawlings.com and be among the first to experience baseball’s evolution as told through the story of these iconic gloves.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Deven Morgan - Director of Youth Baseball, Driveline Academy (Part II)

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Driveline Director of Youth Baseball and the Driveline Academy, Deven Morgan. At Driveline Academy Morgan integrates individual skill development, nutrition guidance, and physical therapy. The intention of Driveline is to address what Morgan has seen in the past 15 years. Players who were all too often underdeveloped on the fundamental skills that would help them stay competitive in the game as they transitioned from youth to High School. Anything that Morgan has done in terms of developing programs and systems to improve youth baseball development has been done with an intention to positively impact all the players in the organization, including his own.

Morgan has been an instrumental part of the ABCA with his involvement on the Youth and Travel Committees, and the Youth Summit. Morgan is a published author, publishing Skills that Scale, a youth baseball training manual.

We had a lot to cover since we last recorded in 2020, so this will be a 2-part episode. This is part II of our conversation. We dive deeper into what the ABCA Youth and Travel Committees are trying to get accomplished to help retention and health of amateur baseball players.

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Deven Morgan - Director of Youth Baseball, Driveline Academy (Part I)

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Deven Morgan, Director of Youth Baseball and the Driveline Academy at Driveline Baseball.

At Driveline Academy, Morgan leads a comprehensive approach to player development—integrating skill development, nutrition, and physical therapy—with the goal of building complete athletes from a young age. His work is driven by what he’s observed over the past 15 years: too many players reaching high school without the foundational skills needed to stay competitive.

Morgan has built systems and programs designed to scale development across entire organizations, ensuring that every player—not just a select few—has the opportunity to improve. That mission is personal, too. Morgan is living it daily, as his son Danny has trained at Driveline since age 9 and is now navigating the college recruiting process at 17.

A published author of Skills That Scale, Morgan has also been heavily involved with the ABCA through the Youth & Travel Committees and the Youth Summit, helping shape the future of youth baseball nationwide.

With so much to cover since his last appearance in 2020, this is Part I of a two-part series, offering an in-depth look at youth player development, long-term planning, and building systems that actually work.

Greg Goodwin - CEO, Mentoring Viable Prospects

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:33:00 +0000

Greg Goodwin has served as a leader in youth baseball for more than 30 years. During his 12 seasons as the head baseball coach at Redan High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia, he compiled a 228-96 (.704) record, earning Region Coach of the Year honors four times and the title of DeKalb County Coach of the Decade. In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Goodwin took on the role of principal at Redan from 2006 to 2015, during which he was recognized as DeKalb County Principal of the Year in 2013.

In 2005, he founded Mentoring Viable Prospects (MVP), a nonprofit organization focused on providing opportunities for minority and underserved baseball student-athletes. MVP has helped over 500 young men secure scholarships, emphasizing character development and academic success.

Goodwin’s dedication to the sport and community has garnered him numerous accolades, including the Atlanta Braves Unsung Hero Award in 2019 and the Georgia Dugout Club Lifetime Legacy Award in 2022. He was also honored with the "For the Love of the Game" award from the Georgia Professional Baseball Scouts Association and became the youngest and first African American coach inducted into the Georgia Dugout Club Hall of Fame in 2000. Goodwin was honored in 2025 with the ABCA Youth Service Award.

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Alex Trezza - Senior Manager of Business Development, GameChanger

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we’re joined by Alex Trezza, Senior Manager of Business Development at GameChanger.

Trezza spent 12 years playing professionally across minor league and independent baseball after being drafted out of Stony Brook University. Following his playing career, he transitioned into the coaching world with stops at Anna Maria College, Adelphi University, University of New Haven, Sacred Heart University, Long Island University, and Boston College.

In 2021, Trezza stepped away from coaching to join GameChanger, where he now works to help grow and support the youth and travel baseball community through technology and storytelling.

In this episode we discuss Trezza’s journey through professional baseball and coaching, what the transition out of coaching looks like, and how GameChanger is helping families, coaches, and players capture and share the moments that make baseball special.

Mike Sabatino - ABCA/Soldier Sports High School Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Edwardsville (IL) HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:40:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Mike Sabatino, assistant coach at Edwardsville High School and the 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports High School Division I Assistant Coach of the Year.

Sabatino joined the Edwardsville staff in 2018, beginning with the freshman team before taking over as Varsity Pitching Coach in 2019. Since then, the Tigers have built one of the most dominant runs in Illinois high school baseball, posting a combined 198-42 record, capturing three state championships, and adding a third-place finish. Edwardsville has averaged 33 wins per season during Sabatino’s six years guiding the pitching staff.

On the mound, the Tigers have been exceptional. Since 2019, Edwardsville pitchers have compiled a 2.17 cumulative ERA, producing multiple double-digit game winners, including Matt Boyer (2019), Spencer Stearns (2022), Logan Geggus (2023), and Chase Milburn (2024).

Beyond the high school field, Sabatino serves as Director of Athletic Performance at Maximized Pitching Lab, bringing cutting-edge development strategies into his program.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into blending modern pitching modalities with traditional coaching principles—covering workload management, in-season maintenance, off-season development, and how to keep arms thriving year-round.

Sean Robinson - ABCA/Soldier Sports NJCAA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Walters State

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/Soldier Sports NJCAA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Walters State Pitching Coach Sean Robinson.

Robinson joined Walters State in 2014. Since then, the Senators have an overall record of 600-130 and have made 6 trips to the NJCAA World Series in Grand Junction, CO, earning five Top 3 finishes nationally. Under Robinson’s guidance the Senators pitching staffs have had 18 pitchers taken in the MLB Draft, and have had 7 former pitchers (Brent Honeywell, Brett Martin, Ben Joyce, Ricky Karcher, Hunter Stratton, Landon Knack, Zebby Matthews) pitch in the Major Leagues.

In 12 seasons, Robinson has mentored 69 pitchers who signed with Div. 1 Schools, including 28 going to Power-5 schools. 23 of his former pitchers have gone on to sign play professionally with Major League Organizations. Robinson has seen 27 Walters State pitchers be named All-TCCAA (21 of those 1st Team), 6 TCCAA Pitcher of the Year award winners, and 7 NJCAA All-Americans.

In 8 of his 12 seasons, Robinson’s pitching staffs have finished in the Top 5 in the nation in strikeouts and have led the nation three times. The 2022 Senators staff set a school record with 679 K’s in the season. Robinson has twice guided the NJCAA National Pitcher of the Year, in 2016 with Jake Miednik and in 2022 with Kohl Drake.

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Coaches Wives Panel

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We have a very special ABCA Podcast this week as we are joined by five successful coaches’ wives. Joining us this week are Maggie Corbin, wife of Tim Corbin (Vanderbilt University, Clemson University, Presbyterian College), Jayma Hitt, wife of Rick Hitt (South Florida State College), Katrina McCormack, wife of John McCormack (Florida Atlantic University), Mary Napoleon, wife of Dusty Napoleon (University of Iowa, Western Illinois, Concordia, Northwestern University, New Trier HS) and Candy Brownlee, wife of Jim Brownlee (University of Evansville, Illinois State).

All have been part of successful programs and have raised great families. Those of us in the coaching industry know how hard it is to raise and keep together a family in athletics. All five have been very successful in their own right as well.

This episode is about giving inexpensive experience to families that are trying to navigate the coaching journey. This is a very impactful and entertaining listen. Growing up in a coaches’ house and having gone through it myself with my own family this topic is near and dear to my heart.

If you run a baseball facility, Swift is the only piece of software you need to manage & grow your business. From scheduling and payments to memberships and retail - Swift takes care of it all. Your coaches can use the app to manage their schedule on the go. And your customers have a sleek & fast way to book online. Lessons, rentals, camps, packages, and more - all in one spot. That’s why hundreds of the best baseball facilities across the country rely on Swift. And now, with their upcoming “AI Front Desk”, you can literally put your business on auto-pilot. Get started in minutes at runswiftapp.com/abca. Spend less time behind the screen, and more time on the field.

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NCAA Div. I Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We start things off with D1Baseball.com’s Aaron Fitt and Mike Rooney. And after that we talk to Vincent Cervino from Perfect Game. As a life-long fan of College Baseball, this is always an exciting time of the year for me.

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NCAA Div. III Baseball Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We continue our previews this week on the ABCA Podcast with NCAA Div. III. We are joined this week with Jim Dixon and Lance Marshall.

Dixon is the managing editor of D3baseball.com and has been the go-to source for NCAA Div. III baseball for over 30 years.

Marshall has been the head baseball coach at Franklin College since 1997, the Director of Athletics since 2023 and currently serves as the ABCA NCAA Div. III Committee Chair.

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NCAA Div. II Season Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we continue our college previews with a full look at NCAA Division II baseball, joined by two of the most respected voices at the level: Chris Hanks, head coach at Colorado Mesa University and ABCA Division II Committee Chair and Wayne Cavadi, the longtime “Dean of DII."

Cavadi has been covering Division II athletics for more than a decade, providing unmatched insight into the national landscape, while Hanks has led the Mavericks since 1999, building one of the most consistent and successful programs in the country.

Together, they break down preseason storylines, teams to watch, conference depth, and what makes DII baseball such a competitive and unique level.

If you run a baseball facility, Swift is the only piece of software you need to manage & grow your business. From scheduling and payments to memberships and retail - Swift takes care of it all. Your coaches can use the app to manage their schedule on the go. And your customers have a sleek & fast way to book online. Lessons, rentals, camps, packages, and more - all in one spot. That’s why hundreds of the best baseball facilities across the country rely on Swift. And now, with their upcoming “AI Front Desk”, you can literally put your business on autopilot. Get started in minutes at runswiftapp.com/abca. Spend less time behind the screen, and more time on the field.

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NJCAA, 3C2A & NWAC Season Previews

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We continue our season previews this week on the ABCA Podcast with a wide-ranging look at NJCAA, 3C2A, and NWAC baseball.

Joining us are two voices deeply connected to the JUCO landscape: Noah Sharp of the JUCO Ball Blog and Troy Sutherland from Perfect Game. Together, they break down key teams, trends, and what to watch as the junior college season gets rolling across multiple regions.

With challenging weather impacting schedules across much of the country and plenty of early-season cancellations, we also discuss how programs are navigating the start of the year.

If you run a baseball facility, Swift is the only piece of software you need to manage & grow your business. From scheduling and payments to memberships and retail - Swift takes care of it all. Your coaches can use the app to manage their schedule on the go. And your customers have a sleek & fast way to book online. Lessons, rentals, camps, packages, and more - all in one spot. That’s why hundreds of the best baseball facilities across the country rely on Swift. And now, with their upcoming “AI Front Desk”, you can literally put your business on autopilot. Get started in minutes at runswiftapp.com/abca. Spend less time behind the screen, and more time on the field.

NAIA Season Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we bring you a preview of the NAIA season with two voices deeply connected to the level: Brian Michalak, head coach at St. Francis and NAIA Committee Chair and Taylor Thomas of NAIA Ball.

In this episode, we recap LSU Shreveport’s historic season from 2025, break down key storylines across NAIA baseball, and discuss what coaches and fans should be watching as the season gets underway. With insight from both the coach and media perspectives, this conversation offers a great snapshot of where NAIA baseball stands heading into the season.

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Danielle Martin - Founder, True Mindsets

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is Danielle Martin, elite mental performance coach, speaker, and founder of True Mindsets. Martin works with some of the highest-performing athletes in the world, including competitors from MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, MLR, the Olympics, NCAA programs, and elite high school athletics, helping them sharpen their mental edge when the pressure is highest.

Martin’s philosophy is simple—and demanding: Weaponize. Drill. Train. Compete. Her system is built around developing elite mental habits, responding to adversity with clarity, and performing consistently at the highest level when it matters most. This isn’t motivational hype—it’s rigorous, tactical mental skills training rooted in real-world competition.

Through True Mindsets, Martin delivers mindset training that transforms how athletes approach pressure, failure, confidence, and execution. Her work bridges the gap between talent and results, helping athletes and teams break through psychological barriers and embed winning behaviors that last far beyond game day.

Her impact also extends outside of sports, with businesses, leadership teams, and high-performance organizations adopting her methods to improve focus, resilience, and decision-making in high-stakes environments.

This episode is a must-listen for coaches, athletes, and leaders looking to better understand the mental side of performance—and how to train it with the same intent as physical skills.

If you run a baseball facility, Swift is the only piece of software you need to manage & grow your business. From scheduling and payments to memberships and retail - Swift takes care of it all. Your coaches can use the app to manage their schedule on the go. And your customers have a sleek & fast way to book online. Lessons, rentals, camps, packages, and more - all in one spot. That’s why hundreds of the best baseball facilities across the country rely on Swift. And now, with their upcoming “AI Front Desk”, you can literally put your business on autopilot. Get started in minutes at runswiftapp.com/abca. Spend less time behind the screen, and more time on the field.

82nd Annual ABCA Convention Recap

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 17:30:00 +0000

We’re closing the book on the 82nd Annual ABCA Convention with a special post-convention wrap-up episode featuring several key ABCA member leaders who helped make the week such a success.

In this episode, we check in with several ABCA Officers:

Chris Pollard – NCAA Division I Committee Chair
Jim Cahill – ABCA Second Vice President and 2026 Main Stage Clinics coordinator
Jordan Baltimore – Newly-elected ABCA Youth Committee Chair
Jeff Willis – Junior College Committee Chair

Together, they reflect on the energy, education, and impact of Convention Week, share takeaways from their respective areas, and discuss what made this year’s event so special.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended in person or participated online. The feedback from coaches, committee members, speakers, exhibitors, and sponsors has been overwhelmingly positive and we can’t wait to do it again. See you January 7–10, 2027 in Chicago!

If you run a baseball facility, Swift is the only piece of software you need to manage & grow your business. From scheduling and payments to memberships and retail - Swift takes care of it all. Your coaches can use the app to manage their schedule on the go. And your customers have a sleek & fast way to book online. Lessons, rentals, camps, packages, and more - all in one spot. That’s why hundreds of the best baseball facilities across the country rely on Swift. And now, with their upcoming “AI Front Desk”, you can literally put your business on autopilot. Get started in minutes at runswiftapp.com/abca. Spend less time behind the screen, and more time on the field.

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82nd Annual ABCA Convention Preview - Columbus, OH

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:00:00 +0000

For the first time ever the World’s Largest Baseball Convention will be heading to Columbus, OH for the 82nd annual ABCA Convention. Today’s episode covers everything you need to know about the convention hearing from Craig Keilitz, Jon Litchfield, Kurt Birkins, Juahn Clark, Zach Haile and Ryan Brownlee.

Our goal every year is to make this a wonderful experience for our attendees, guests, sponsors and exhibitors. I hope you enjoy, and we look forward to seeing everyone at the 82nd ABCA Convention on January 8th through the 11th. Thanks again for your support and trust. Here is to a great show for everyone!

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Lyndon Coleman - 2025 ABCA/ATEC NJCAA Div. II Coach of the Year, Pasco-Hernando State

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:43:00 +0000

Safe travels to all the coaches headed to Columbus this week! The ABCA is excited to welcome everyone for the 82nd annual ABCA Convention. Stay tuned as the Convention Preview Episode drops this Wednesday, January 7th to help make your trip and on-site experience as smooth as possible!

Kicking off convention week on the ABCA Podcast is Lyndon Coleman, head coach at Pasco-Hernando State College and the 2025 ABCA/ATEC NJCAA Division II Coach of the Year.

Coleman led the Bobcats to their first-ever NJCAA National Championship this past spring, capping a remarkable rise since taking over as head coach in 2019. This March, he was also named Athletic Director, following in the footsteps of PHSC legend Steve Winterling—adding another chapter to a career deeply rooted in the program as a former player, assistant coach, and now leader.

Under Coleman’s leadership, PHSC owns a 219-125-1 overall record, including 126-75 as head coach. He earned his 100th career win in just his third full season (March 7, 2022) and has guided the Bobcats to five NJCAA DII Region 8 titles and five trips to the NJCAA DII Southeast District 10 Tournament in North Carolina.

Despite spending the first six years without a conference affiliation, Coleman still built a national contender. When PHSC joined the Sun-Lakes Conference, the Bobcats immediately won the regular season title. In Coleman’s first season as head coach, PHSC also finished third at the NJCAA DII World Series in Enid, Oklahoma—earning him NJCAA and ABCA Southeast District Coach of the Year honors.

In this episode, Coach Coleman breaks down program building, championship culture, leadership growth, and the lessons learned along the journey to a national title.

Brian Johnson - Founder, Heroic

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:13:29 +0000

Brian Johnson is the founder of the social training platform Heroic, a Public Benefit Corporation focused on helping people flourish by embodying their "best, most Heroic self" through integrating ancient wisdom and modern science, with a goal for 51% of humanity to flourish by 2051.

Johnson is the author of the book Areté and has worked with the Navy Seals, Notre Dame Football and the European Rider Cup Team. Johnson has a philosophy background and is known for distilling down complex ideas into practical tools, promoting themes of self-mastery, wisdom, courage, love, and helping individuals activate their potential.

Johnson will be presenting on the main stage at the upcoming ABCA convention in Columbus, OH. In this episode, we cover a wide array of peak performance topics that will help everyone become the best version of themselves. Johnson also just released Philosopher’s Notes which he personally, not AI generated, condensed over 700 books to save reader’s time. Allowing leaders to focus on eight domains of wisdom which are energy, habits, stoicism, mental toughness, purpose, productivity, relationships and leadership. ABCA Podcast listeners can sign up at philsophersnotes.com/ABCA.

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Alan Jaeger & Randy Sullivan - Return to Throwing Manual & Schedule 2.0

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by two of the most trusted voices in arm care and throwing development: Alan Jaeger and Randy Sullivan.

Jaeger is the CEO and Founder of Jaeger Sports and has been at the forefront of arm health and mental performance in the baseball community for more than 30 years. Sullivan is the CEO and Founder of the Florida Baseball ARMory, author of eight books on pitching, and brings over three decades of experience in rehab, recovery, and high-performance development for throwing athletes.

Together, Jaeger and Sullivan join the podcast to break down their free resource, the “Return to Throwing Manual & Schedule 2.0.” This conversation covers the why and how behind proper return-to-throwing protocols, common mistakes coaches and athletes make, and how to better protect arms while still preparing players to compete at a high level.

This episode is packed with practical insight for coaches, players, parents, and trainers looking to better understand arm care, recovery timelines, and long-term development.

Pat Casey - 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Inductee, Oregon State

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We wrap up our 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class interviews with one of the most influential figures in college baseball history—Pat Casey. Over a coaching career that spanned more than three decades, Casey built programs defined by toughness, consistency, and championship standards.

Casey began his head coaching career at George Fox University from 1988–1994, compiling a 171-113-1 (.602) record before taking over at Oregon State in 1995. During his 24 seasons in Corvallis, Casey transformed the Beavers into a national powerhouse, posting a 900-458-6 (.662) record and becoming the winningest coach in any sport in Oregon State history. He finished his collegiate career with 1,071 wins, a mark that places him among the all-time greats.

Under Casey’s leadership, Oregon State made six College World Series appearances and became just the fifth program in NCAA history to win back-to-back national championships, capturing titles in 2006 and 2007. After adding a third national championship in 2018, Casey announced his retirement, closing one of the most accomplished coaching tenures the sport has ever seen.

His impact has been recognized at every level, including: Three ABCA National Coach of the Year awards, Five Pac-10/12 Coach of the Year honors, Baseball America's College Coach of the Decade (2000–2009), and induction into the College Baseball Hall of Fame and Oregon State Athletics Hall of Fame (2024).

In this episode, Coach Casey reflects on building a championship culture, sustaining excellence, and the leadership lessons that shaped Oregon State’s rise to the top of college baseball.

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Sam Piraro - 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class Inductee, San Jose State

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Continuing our 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class interviews, this week’s ABCA Podcast features one of California’s most influential and respected baseball minds: Sam Piraro. With a career spanning high school, junior college, and NCAA Division I baseball, Piraro forged a legacy defined by program-building, competitive excellence, and lasting impact.

Piraro’s head coaching journey began at Mission College (Calif.) from 1980-1986, where he took a brand-new program and turned it into a powerhouse. Over seven remarkable seasons, the Saints won two state championships (1981 & 1983) and five Coast Conference titles, laying the foundation for Piraro’s reputation as a transformative leader.

In 1987, Piraro took over at San José State, where he led the Spartans for two stints (1987-2002, 2004-2012). His tenure produced the program’s first-ever College World Series appearance in 2000, and he became the school’s all-time wins leader, finishing with an 806-632-6 (.558) record at SJSU and a 996-702-9 (.583) overall collegiate mark. Along the way, he earned four WAC Coach of the Year awards and guided the Spartans to two NCAA Tournament berths, cementing his reputation as one of the nation’s top collegiate coaches.

Piraro closed his head coaching career with a successful four-year stint (2015-2018) at Willow Glen High School, continuing to mentor young players and contribute to the California baseball community he helped shape.

His accolades reflect a life spent elevating programs and people, including his induction into the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame (second-youngest ever), inaugural inductee into the Mission Athletics Hall of Fame, and San José Sports Hall of Fame inductee.

In this episode, Coach Piraro reflects on building programs from scratch, leading teams to the game’s biggest stages, and the lessons learned across a lifetime in baseball.

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Michael Jacobs - 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports High School Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year, Saint Thomas Aquinas (KS) HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is the 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports High School Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year Saint Thomas Aquinas (KS) assistant coach, Michael Jacobs. Aquinas is coming off back-to-back Kansas Class 5A State Championships and fifth overall for the school. The Saints finished the season with a 27-4 record.

Jacobs is a Kansas City native, Aquinas alum and pitched collegiately for the University of Iowa, graduating in 2010. Jacobs worked in banking before going back to get his teaching degree in 2014.

Jacobs has great feel for developing amateur pitchers, so this is a deep dive into pitching development and arm health.

ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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Terry Gobert - 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class Inductee, Jasper (IN) High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Terry Gobert, the legendary head coach at Jasper High School (IN) and one of the winningest high school baseball coaches in state history. Across 38 seasons, Gobert has built a true dynasty in Jasper, compiling an extraordinary 912-249 (.786) career record and becoming just the fifth coach in Indiana history to surpass the 900-win milestone.

Gobert’s run of excellence includes six IHSAA state championships—tied for fourth all-time—along with four state runner-up finishes, 12 semi-state titles, 17 regional championships, and an incredible 27 sectional titles. His sustained success on the field is matched by the output of talent from his program, developing 15 players who went on to play NCAA Division I or professional baseball, including MLB Hall of Famer Scott Rolen and former NFL quarterback Matt Mauck.

Inducted into the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007, Gobert’s place among the state’s coaching legends is cemented not only by wins and trophies but by his commitment to player development, competitive standards, and the long-term success of his athletes.

In this episode, Coach Gobert reflects on nearly four decades of high-level consistency, the pillars of Jasper’s culture, and the lessons he has learned guiding one of the nation’s most respected high school programs.

Jordan Schwellenbach - 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Jordan Schwellenbach, assistant coach at LSU Shreveport and the 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year.

In his first season with the Pilots, Schwellenbach served as Recruiting Coordinator and Pitching Coach, helping steer LSUS to one of the greatest accomplishments in college baseball history — a perfect 59-0 season and the program’s first NAIA National Championship.

Under his direction, the Pilots’ pitching staff delivered video-game numbers and shattered program and national records:

2.38 ERA (No. 1 nationally)
.192 opponent batting average (No. 1 nationally)
0.98 WHIP (No. 1 nationally)

Schwellenbach’s ability to develop arms, prepare game-ready plans, and instill mound presence was a key ingredient in LSUS’s undefeated run.

Before arriving in Shreveport, he spent seven seasons at Central Methodist (Mo.), helping the Eagles to seven straight Opening Round appearances and a 2021 national runner-up finish. He previously spent three seasons at Saginaw Valley State University, continuing to refine his craft and build a reputation as an elite pitching mind.

This episode dives deep into pitching development, building trust, recruiting philosophy, and the behind-the-scenes work that fuels a 59-0 championship season.

Sam Mote - 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NCAA Div. II Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Sam Mote, assistant coach at Angelo State University and the 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NCAA Division II Assistant Coach of the Year.

Since joining the Rams’ coaching staff in 2018, Mote has helped elevate Angelo State into one of the premier hitting programs in the country. Under his guidance, the Rams have led the Lone Star Conference in batting average in four of his seven seasons and ranked among the top offensive teams in NCAA Division II year after year.

During the 2023 National Championship season, the Rams hit .342, ranking fifth nationally, while also finishing third in on-base percentage (.454) and runs scored (597). That same year, Angelo State held the top fielding percentage in Division II (.985).

The 2022 season was historic as well — the Rams’ 677 runs led all of Division II, paired with a .357 team batting average, .470 on-base percentage, 166 doubles, and 763 hits, while making their second straight College World Series appearance.

Across his tenure, Mote has coached eight NCAA Division II All-Americans, including 2019 NCAA Division II Player of the Year Josh Elvir, and continues to develop balanced, disciplined, and explosive offensive units.

Prior to joining ASU, Mote served as a volunteer assistant at Texas A&M - Corpus Christi, spent two years at the University of Northwestern Ohio, and three seasons at Iowa Western Community College, where he helped lead the Reivers to the 2014 NJCAA National Championship.

Adam McGinnis - 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NJCAA Div. II Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is Adam McGinnis, Heartland Community College Recruiting Coordinator and the 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NJCAA Division II Assistant Coach of the Year.

Since rejoining the Heartland staff in 2021, McGinnis has helped guide the Hawks to four straight NJCAA World Series appearances, highlighted by a National Championship in 2023. On the field, he oversees the hitters and catchers, two groups that have become pillars of Heartland’s success.

The 2025 Hawks’ lineup was among the best in the country, hitting .347 as a team, averaging over nine runs per game, and racking up 267 extra-base hits. Behind the plate, Heartland’s catchers threw out runners at a 35% clip, showcasing the detailed development that’s become McGinnis’ trademark.

In addition to his on-field role, McGinnis leads the Student Success Program at Heartland and manages operations at the Corn Crib in Normal, Illinois — home of the Hawks. A former standout at Western Illinois University (2014–17), McGinnis went on to play professionally in the Chicago White Sox organization for two seasons.

This episode dives into hitting and catching development, the balance between recruiting and culture, and what it takes to sustain excellence year after year.

The ABCA Podcast is sponsored by Driveline. If you want to truly optimize your pitchers' workload? PULSE from Driveline Baseball takes simple pitch counts to the next level. PULSE is a wearable sensor that precisely measures every throw your pitchers make on a daily basis. PULSE tracks both throw count and throw intensity.Trusted by MLB organizations like the Cincinnati Reds, elite college programs, and individual athletes at all levels, PULSE is changing the way throwing workload is managed. With the PULSE Team Dashboard, you'll be able to make data-driven usage decisions to optimize training and injury prevention for your entire team. Visit drivelinebaseball.com/pulse to revolutionize your pitching staff development and health today.

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Matt Williams - 2025 ABCA/Soldier Sports NCAA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Coastal Carolina University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Matt Williams, the ABCA's 2025 NCAA Division I Assistant Coach of the Year and pitching coach for Coastal Carolina University.

In just his second season with the Chanticleers, Williams helped guide Coastal Carolina to its second appearance in the College World Series Championship Series, cementing the program’s place among college baseball’s elite.

Before arriving in Conway, Williams spent four seasons as the associate head coach and pitching coach at Liberty University, leading the Flames to NCAA Tournament appearances in both 2021 and 2022. His 2021 staff set a program record for Division I winning percentage at 41-16 and finished as the runner-up in the Knoxville Regional.

Williams also brings experience from the professional ranks, having served as an International Scout and Minor League Pitching Coach for the San Diego Padres.

Prior to his time at Liberty, he spent five seasons as pitching coach at UNC Wilmington, where his staffs set multiple strikeout records and helped the Seahawks reach three NCAA regional finals. Earlier in his career, Williams spent eight seasons at Spartanburg Methodist College, where his pitching staffs consistently ranked among the nation’s best and helped send 34 pitchers to Division I programs.

In this episode, Coach Williams dives into the process of developing elite pitching staffs, building confidence on the mound, and sustaining success across every level of the game.

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Steve Ruzich - 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class Inductee, South Suburban College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Continuing our 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class podcasts, this week’s ABCA Podcast features Steve Ruzich, the legendary head coach of South Suburban College (IL). For more than 40 years, Ruzich has been the face of the Bulldogs’ baseball program, building one of the most successful legacies in NJCAA history.

With a career record of 1,385-817 (.629) through 2025, Ruzich ranks fifth all-time in wins among NJCAA coaches. Under his leadership, South Suburban has claimed 15 regional championships, made two NJCAA World Series appearances, and earned nine regional runner-up finishes.

The Bulldogs’ best season came in 2005, when they posted a school-record 51 wins and a .823 winning percentage. Ruzich has been named NJCAA Region IV Coach of the Year 14 times and has coached numerous players who advanced to professional baseball, including Tony Cingrani and Rob Mackowiak.

A 2014 NJCAA Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame inductee, Ruzich was also recognized among the inaugural recipients of the NJCAA Coaches Legacy Awards in 2025—honoring the all-time winningest coaches in NJCAA history.

In this episode, Coach Ruzich reflects on four decades of building teams, developing players, and leaving a lasting impact on the game and community he’s served so passionately.

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John McCormack - 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class Inductee, Florida Atlantic University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Kicking off our 2026 ABCA Hall of Fame Class interviews is Florida Atlantic University head coach and ABCA First Vice President, John McCormack.

McCormack completed his 17th year at Florida Atlantic University as head coach in 2025, and 35th season with the program. He had previously served 11 years as associate head coach and seven years as an assistant coach, beginning in 1991.

The Owls finished 37-21 overall and fourth in league play in their second year as a member of the American Athletic Conference. Coach Mac has led FAU to four regular season conference championships (C-USA: 2016 & 2019, SBC: 2010 & 2012) and one postseason conference championship (SBC: 2013). The Owls have qualified for NCAA Regionals six times (2010, '13, '15, '16, '18, '19) in the McCormack era.

Since 2009, 13 Owls have earned All-American honors, and 21 have earned All-Region honors and a total of 105 FAU players that McCormack has recruited or coached at FAU have continued their professional careers. Additionally, 33 of the 36 draftees were not drafted out of high school, continuing McCormack’s outstanding track record of developing players after they come to Boca Raton.

A big part of FAU’s success has been that passion for the Boca Raton area and the university, allowing the program to attract some of the best players in Florida. FAU’s baseball program has been built around the premise that McCormack would find athletes with the desire to win, the coaching staff would develop talent and the players would become better.

This episode is brought to you by Rapsodo Baseball – the trusted player development technology of coaches at every level.
Rapsodo has basically become THE gold standard for player development in baseball. Pitchers, hitters, college programs, big leaguers, even their Official Technology Ambassador Shohei Ohtani —everybody’s using it.
And it’s not just a radar gun with a fancy name. Rapsodo tracks spin rate, movement, release points, exit velo, launch angle—all the stuff that turns “he looks good” into “here’s exactly why he’s good.”
Coaches use technology like PRO 2.0 to build pitching profiles, hitters use it to fine-tune their swing, and parents use it to justify spending a mortgage payment on travel ball. It’s that good.
If you're serious about development—or just want to know why your curveball still gets hit 400 feet—go check them out. If you’re a high school program, they are offering $1,000 off, just head to rapsodo.com. It’s like science, but for baseball people.
Train smarter. Develop faster. Learn more at rapsodo.com.

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Kermit Smith - 2026 ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award Recipient

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Kermit Smith, head coach at Appalachian State University, whose leadership and steady influence have made him one of the most respected coaches in collegiate baseball.

Smith recently completed his ninth season at App State (2025), where he continues to guide the Mountaineers with integrity and purpose. Before arriving in Boone, he led programs at Lander University (S.C.) and Belmont Abbey College (N.C.), taking both to the NCAA Division II College World Series—a rare accomplishment that speaks to his ability to build successful cultures wherever he goes.

With over 600 career victories and three ABCA Regional Coach of the Year honors, Smith’s influence stretches beyond wins and losses. He’s served in leadership roles across his programs and conferences, including chairing the coaches’ council at Belmont Abbey, and was recognized with the 2024 App State FCA Influence Award for his mentorship and faith-driven leadership.

In this episode, Smith shares insights on culture, consistency, and connection—plus his experience coaching in USA Baseball’s Prospect Development Pipeline League in 2022. It’s a conversation filled with heart, humility, and practical takeaways for coaches at every level.

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Tom Griffin - 2026 ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award Recipient

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Tom Griffin, one of the most respected catching instructors and collegiate coaches in the game. Griffin just completed his 20th season leading the Carson-Newman program and has amassed 746 career wins over his 28 years in college coaching.

A true authority in catching instruction, Griffin is a staple at national events such as CatcherCon and has been a featured clinician at four ABCA Conventions. He also contributed his expertise as a coach in the Prospect Development Pipeline League from 2021 to 2023.

Beyond the diamond, Griffin serves as Assistant Athletic Director for Coaching Development at Carson-Newman, reflecting his commitment not only to players but to advancing the craft of coaching itself. In 2024, his career was recognized with induction into the Tennessee Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

This episode is packed with wisdom on player development, leadership, and the art of catching. Get your pen and notebook ready—Coach Griffin embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner who continues to evolve with the game.

Pat Doyle - 2026 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Pat Doyle, the distinguished recipient of the 2026 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award. Named after the legendary Lefty Gomez, this honor is presented annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to baseball locally, nationally, and internationally—and Doyle’s career epitomizes that standard.

Doyle’s coaching journey began while still a student at Fresno State, where he took a medical hardship year and stepped into coaching. He went on to lead programs at Lodi and Tokay High Schools before spending 23 seasons at San Joaquin Delta College, guiding the Mustangs to 17 3C2A playoff appearances.

Beyond the U.S., Doyle has left a tremendous mark internationally through the MLB Envoy program, as well as coaching and managing the national teams for Ireland, Great Britain, and Israel. His impact has been recognized at the highest level—he was inducted into the ABCA Hall of Fame in 2019, and now receives one of the association’s most prestigious honors.

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Oscar Reed - Recruiting Coordinator, Alcorn State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is Oscar Reed, Recruiting Coordinator and Pitching Coach at Alcorn State University. Reed joined the Braves’ staff this summer after two seasons at Alvin Junior College, continuing a coaching career that has spanned high school, junior college, travel baseball, and now the NCAA Division I level.

Reed’s path has taken him from Crescent City Baptist High School in 2010 to Prairie View A&M, Leesville High School, and on the travel side with Twelve Baseball and the Houston Wildcatters. He’s also navigated time in the corporate world, working at Eaton Corporation, Richard Wayne & Robert, and NBC affiliate KPRC2, before fully committing to life in baseball.

In this episode, Reed opens up about the challenges and sacrifices of staying in coaching, while offering valuable insight on recruiting, pitching development, and building opportunities for players at every level.

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Jake Ratz - Minor League Hitting Coach, Baltimore Orioles

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Baltimore Orioles Minor League Hitting Coach, Jake Ratz, joins the ABCA Podcast this week. Ratz joined the Orioles Organization in December of 2022 coaching in the Dominican Summer League. This past season Ratz coached in the Florida Coast League.

Ratz got his coaching start collegiately where he started his collegiate playing career at Ellsworth Community College. Other stops along his coaching journey were Southwestern Community College, Iowa Western, Butler University and Upper Iowa University. Ratz also spent summers coaching in the Northwoods, Prospect and MINK Leagues.

This episode is a deep dive in to coaching this generation of hitters. This episode is brought to you by Rapsodo Baseball – the trusted player development technology of coaches at every level.
Rapsodo has basically become THE gold standard for player development in baseball. Pitchers, hitters, college programs, big leaguers, even their Official Technology Ambassador Shohei Ohtani —everybody’s using it.
And it’s not just a radar gun with a fancy name. Rapsodo tracks spin rate, movement, release points, exit velo, launch angle—all the stuff that turns “he looks good” into “here’s exactly why he’s good.”
Coaches use technology like PRO 2.0 to build pitching profiles, hitters use it to fine-tune their swing, and parents use it to justify spending a mortgage payment on travel ball. It’s that good.
If you're serious about development—or just want to know why your curveball still gets hit 400 feet—go check them out. If you’re a high school program, they are offering $1,000 off, just head to rapsodo.com. It’s like science, but for baseball people.
Train smarter. Develop faster. Learn more at rapsodo.com.

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John Vodenlich - ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. III Coach of the Year, UW-Whitewater

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by John Vodenlich, head coach at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, member of the 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame Class, and the 2025 ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. III Coach of the Year.

Vodenlich has turned UW-Whitewater into a perennial powerhouse, leading the Warhawks to three national championships (2005, 2014, 2025). His 2025 squad was one of the most dominant in program history, finishing 49-6 while posting video game numbers with a .364 team batting average and a 3.36 ERA.

In this episode, Coach Vodenlich shares the culture and coaching principles that have fueled Whitewater’s success, along with invaluable lessons for both life and baseball.

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John Knott - ABCA/ATEC Pacific Association Coach of the Year, Mt. SAC

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:35:30 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we’re highlighting another of our ABCA/ATEC Coaches of the Year with John Knott, head coach at Mount San Antonio College and the 2025 ABCA/ATEC Pacific Association Division Coach of the Year.

Knott guided Mt. SAC to a historic season in 2025, capturing the 3C2A Championship for the first time in 60 years. The Mounties finished with an incredible 45-6 record, including 22-2 in conference play, cementing themselves among the best teams in the country.

Since taking over the program in 2016, Knott has built Mt. SAC into a consistent contender, carrying over his winning pedigree from Bonita High School, where he led the team to its first CIF Championship since 1951 and six straight league titles from 2009–2014.

In this episode, Knott reflects on his program-building approach, the culture behind Mt. SAC’s title run, and lessons learned from both the high school and college levels.

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Jim Koerner - Director of Player Development, USA Baseball

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Jim Koerner, USA Baseball’s Director of Player Development. In his role, Koerner oversees on-field programming for six national teams and three national development programs.

Since taking over the position in 2021, Koerner has brought a wealth of coaching experience from his time leading and assisting collegiate programs at North Carolina Central University, University of Buffalo, Marshall University, Monmouth University, and Medaille University.

In this episode, Koerner shares practical development tips from training approaches to mental skills and long-term growth that can help players, coaches, and parents at any level.

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Joe Giummule - ABCA/ATEC High School Div. I Coach of the Year, Jupiter HS (FL)

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 14:24:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we spotlight another ABCA/ATEC Coach of the Year—Joe Giummule, head coach at Jupiter High School (FL) and the 2025 ABCA/ATEC High School Division I Coach of the Year.

In his first season at Jupiter, Giummule led the Warriors all the way to the Florida Class 7A state championship game, falling just short in a tight 3-2 battle against national powerhouse Stoneman Douglas.

With more than 20 years of coaching experience, Giummule has earned a reputation as a true program builder, having led and developed teams at Taravella, Deerfield Beach, Coral Glades, Sebastian River, South Broward, and Pompano Beach. In this episode, he reflects on his coaching journey, the keys to establishing a winning culture, and his guiding mantra of being “Fair and Consistent.”

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Josh Raney - ABCA/ATEC High School Div. III Coach of the Year, Blanchard (OK) High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we continue highlighting our ABCA/ATEC Coaches of the Year with Josh Raney, head coach at Blanchard High School (OK) and the 2025 ABCA/ATEC High School Division III National Coach of the Year.

Raney has been at the helm for 19 seasons and has built one of the premier programs in Oklahoma high school baseball. His Blanchard Lions have captured four state titles in the last 10 years, including a dominant 35-1 run in 2025 that ended with the Oklahoma 4A State Championship.

Known for his philosophy of mastering the fundamentals and being elite at the small things that win games, Raney has compiled a career record of 510-122. With this honor, he becomes the second Oklahoma coach to receive this award, joining ABCA Hall of Famer Larry Turner.

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Chris Roof - ABCA/ATEC High School Div. II Coach of the Year, Governor Livingston HS (NJ)

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

It’s that time of year on the ABCA Podcast when we spotlight our ABCA/ATEC Coaches of the Year, and this week we’re joined by Chris Roof, the 2025 ABCA/ATEC High School Division II Coach of the Year.

Roof has served as head coach at Governor Livingston High School (NJ) for the past 25 years and has built a powerhouse program in the Garden State. After capturing the New Jersey State Championship in 2024, his squad followed it up with a perfect 28-0 season in 2025, securing back-to-back state titles in dominant fashion.

In this episode, Roof shares the foundation of his program’s success, his leadership philosophy, and how he’s impacted baseball in New Jersey beyond just the field.

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Zach Sorensen - Mental Performance Coach, Cincinnati Reds

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is Zach Sorensen, Mental Performance Coach for the Cincinnati Reds.

A former three-time All-American at Wichita State and second-round MLB Draft pick by the Cleveland Guardians, Sorensen brings a unique perspective shaped by his own professional playing career and his deep passion for helping athletes master the mental game.

After 10 years as a pro player, Sorensen transitioned into medical sales before rediscovering his purpose in performance coaching. He’s since worked with the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, and now the Reds, helping athletes train their minds like they train their bodies.

Sorensen is also the host of The Hard 90 Podcast, where he shares strategies for maximizing mindset, and he's currently collaborating with Pison on a cutting-edge cognitive training app for athletes.

This episode dives into what it takes to perform mentally at the highest level and how coaches can better equip their players with the tools to succeed beyond mechanics.

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Clint Hurdle - Hitting & Bench Coach, Colorado Rockies

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we sit down with Clint Hurdle, longtime MLB manager and current hitting and bench coach for the Colorado Rockies.

Hurdle has been part of professional baseball since 1977, serving the game as a player, coach, and manager over the past five decades. Hurdle spent 17 seasons as a Major League manager—leading both the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, and totaling nearly 1,300 career wins.

This conversation flows into discussions on leadership, resilience, player connection, and the deeper lessons that come from a lifetime in baseball.

Hurdle also delivered a phenomenal presentation at the 2025 ABCA Convention, which you can go back and watch now in the Videos section of the app or online in the ABCA Video Library. It’s well worth your time and full of the same energy, perspective, and honesty he brings to this episode.

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Brad Neffendorf - Head Coach, LSU Shreveport

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Brad Neffendorf, head coach of LSU Shreveport, who just led his program to a historic and unprecedented season. Under Neffendorf’s leadership, the Pilots went a perfect 59-0, capturing the first national title in school history.

It marked the third NAIA World Series appearance for Shreveport during Neffendorf’s tenure and the fourth consecutive Red River Athletic Conference regular season title. As expected, the accolades followed: Neffendorf was named ABCA/ATEC NAIA National Coach of the Year, the College Baseball Foundation (Skip Bertman Award), Perfect Game, and NAIA Ball.

In this episode, Neffendorf breaks down the culture, preparation, and mindset behind the perfect run, and how he’s built a consistent NAIA powerhouse since taking over in 2019.

Also be sure to check out the July/August issue of Inside Pitch Magazine (mailing soon!)—Coach Neffendorf is on the cover with an even more in-depth interview on this once-in-a-lifetime season!

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Dave Serrano - Head Coach, Johnson University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We’re back to one-on-one interviews this week on the ABCA Podcast with a true coaching veteran—Dave Serrano, head coach at Johnson University and one of the most respected baseball minds in the game.

Serrano’s journey through college baseball spans over three decades and includes stops at some of the game’s premier programs: Tennessee, Cal State Fullerton, UC Irvine, West Virginia, and Cal State Northridge. He got his start in 1988 under George Horton at Cerritos College and went on to become the 2007 Baseball America National Coach of the Year after leading UC Irvine to the College World Series.

Now with over 600 career wins as a head coach, Serrano is in the midst of a remarkable turnaround at Johnson University. After taking over a 5-win program in 2023, he’s led the team to back-to-back record-breaking seasons in both single-season and conference wins.

In this episode, Serrano reflects on the mentors who shaped him, the lessons he’s carried from Omaha to his current rebuild, and what it takes to lead with both passion and purpose.

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NCAA Div. II World Series Head Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we recorded in Cary, North Carolina at the NCAA Division II World Series. We sat down with all eight head coaches who led their teams to this year’s championship stage to discuss postseason preparation, team culture, and the experience of competing at the highest level in Division II baseball.

Featured in this episode: Brad Baldwin (Northwood University), Brent Porche (UT Tyler), Chris Langan (Felician University), John Kochmansky (East Stroudsburg University), Adam Skonieczki (Lenoir-Rhyne University), Joe Schaeffer (Northwest Nazarene University), Kyle Crookes (University of Central Missouri), Joe Urso (University of Tampa).

Huge congratulations to Joe Urso and the University of Tampa on capturing their second consecutive National Championship, winning seven games in eight days in an incredible postseason run!

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NJCAA Div. III World Series Head Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we bring you a special episode recorded on location at the NJCAA Division III World Series in Auburn, New York.

We sat down with all eight head coaches competing for a national title to talk about their programs, postseason preparation, and what it means to be part of one of the most competitive events in junior college baseball.

Featured in this episode: Mark Tucker – Surry Community College (NC); Johnny Johnson – Brookdale Community College (NJ); Bill Fratto – Oakton Community College (IL); Matt Clingersmith – SUNY Niagara; Jimmy Brenneman – Dallas College Richland (TX); Jeff Mejia – Northern Essex Community College (MA); Matt Erzar – Century College (MN); and Rob Valli – RCSJ-Gloucester (NJ). A special congrats to Valli and RCSJ-Gloucester on capturing their third straight NJCAA DIII National Championship!

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Belmont Abbey NCAA Div. II Regional Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we bring you an episode recorded on location during the NCAA Division II Regional hosted at Belmont Abbey College in North Carolina.

We sat down with the four head coaches who were leading their programs through postseason play and captured their insights right in the heart of the action. Featured in this episode: Adam Skonieczki (Lenoir-Rhyne University), Chris Anderson (Belmont Abbey College), Tom Cantrell (University of North Georgia), and Tom Griffin (Carson-Newman University).

These coaches share their thoughts on playoff preparation, in-season growth, player development, and what it means to compete on the national stage. It's a great inside look at high-level DII baseball from the dugouts of a regional battle.

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Dr. Barry Davis - Assistant Coach, Princeton University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Barry Davis, assistant coach at Princeton University and former longtime head coach at Rider University. Davis brings more than three decades of coaching experience to the conversation, with a track record of sustained success at every level of college baseball—NJCAA, NAIA, and NCAA Division I.

Over 20 seasons at Rider, Davis led the Broncs to four conference tournament championships, two regular season titles, and 12 conference tournament appearances. In 2023, his team tied a program record with 36 wins. Prior to his time at Rider, Davis also built winning programs at Georgia Southwestern State (NAIA) and Gloucester County College (NJCAA), amassing over 1,000 career wins across his head coaching stops.

Now coaching in the Ivy League at Princeton, Davis reflects on his coaching journey, leadership philosophy, and what it takes to build successful programs across different levels of the game.

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Dr. Luke Wilkins - Sport and Exercise Psychology, La Trobe University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Luke Wilkins, a lecturer at La Trobe University and former sport scientist and lead skill acquisition specialist with the New York Yankees. Wilkins brings a unique perspective to player development, blending cutting-edge academic research with experience in professional baseball.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into his recent research paper, “A Framework for Using Virtual Reality to Enhance Psychological Performance in Baseball,” and explore how perceptual-cognitive training, gaze behavior, and VR tech can be used to elevate on-field performance.

Originally from the UK, Wilkins holds a PhD from The University of Birmingham and currently teaches in the Sport and Exercise Science department at La Trobe, focusing on motor behavior and talent development. He’s also involved in international research collaborations across baseball and cricket.

Want even more from Dr. Wilkins? Check out Episode 280 of the ABCA Podcast from January 17, 2022, where he breaks down the principles of skill acquisition in baseball.

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Lary Sorensen - Chief Baseball Officer, pitchLogic & Announcer, Wake Forest University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 May 2025 09:15:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by former MLB All-Star, longtime broadcaster, and pitchLogic CBO, Lary Sorensen. A veteran of 11 big-league seasons, Sorensen won 93 games and was selected to the 1978 American League All-Star team as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers.

After his final MLB appearance in 1988, Sorensen transitioned into the broadcast booth, calling games for ESPN, the Detroit Tigers, and most recently, Wake Forest University baseball and football. But behind the scenes, Sorensen battled substance abuse—a struggle that nearly cost him everything. In 2014, he turned his life around and has been thriving ever since, using his platform to support others and continue growing the game through pitchLogic’s cutting-edge technology.

In this powerful episode, Sorensen reflects on the highs and lows of his career, his passion for the game, and the importance of second chances.

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Live from NHSI Part 3: Coaching Conversations

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This is our final installment of on location interviews from Cary, NC and USA Baseball’s NHSI Tournament coaches. Today we are joined by Venice’s Craig Faulkner, Corona Del Sol’s David Webb, Collierville’s Jeff Munier, Wesleyan Christian’s Mo Blakeney and Stony Brook’s Jon Brewer. Congrats to Coach Faulkner and Venice High School on bringing home this year’s championship.

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Live from NHSI Part 2: Coaching Conversations

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 May 2025 09:00:00 +0000

The second part of our special National High School Invitational series brings you more on-the-ground conversations recorded in Cary, North Carolina. This premier event once again showcased elite talent and exceptional coaching from across the country.

This week, we continue our series with five more outstanding high school coaches who led their teams at NHSI 2025:

Andy Wise – Corona High School (CA)
Benji Medure – Huntington Beach High School (CA)
Joe Weber – Christopher Columbus High School (FL)
Matt Rovantini – Poly Prep (NY)
Rod Whitesell – Holly Springs High School (NC)

These coaches reflect on the NHSI experience, discuss program-building strategies, and talk about preparing their players for top-level competition while representing their school and community on the national stage.

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Live from NHSI: Coaching Conversations

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

For the next three weeks, we’re bringing you a special series of interviews recorded on location in Cary, North Carolina, during USA Baseball’s National High School Invitational (NHSI). It was another phenomenal event filled with top-tier talent and outstanding coaching.

This week, we kick things off with a round of conversations featuring coaches from five standout programs that competed at NHSI:

Corrigan Willis – Granada High School (CA)
John Murphy – Trinity Christian Academy (FL)
Matt Darr – Regis Jesuit High School (CO)
Matt Denny – Casteel High School (AZ)
Tim Funkhouser – Edwardsville High School (IL)

These coaches share insights on building successful programs, preparing for high-level competition, and what it means to represent their school and community on a national stage.

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Kayla Baptista - Pro Scout, Pittsburgh Pirates

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we’re joined by Kayla Baptista of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Baptista has quickly built a remarkable résumé in the game, becoming the first female on-field coaching intern in Cape Cod League history in 2021 with the Wareham Gatemen, and later breaking new ground again as the first female hired for a coaching role by the Texas Rangers in January 2022.

A former University of North Carolina softball standout, Baptista’s baseball journey has taken her from the Cape Cod League to the Texas Rangers’ player development system, and now to her current role as a pro scout with the Pirates.

In this episode, Baptista shares the experiences and lessons that have shaped her rise through the baseball ranks—from working with legendary ABCA Hall of Famers Ron Polk, Jerry Weinstein, and Don Sneddon, to her time at Cressey Sports Performance and in the Rangers’ spring training complex.

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Sal Fasano - Assistant Coach, Los Angeles Angels

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

We’re staying on the professional side this week with Los Angeles Angels' catching and pitching coach Sal Fasano. A 13-year MLB veteran who played for 10 different organizations, Fasano brings a deep well of experience to this episode—from his time behind the plate to his work in the dugout and front office.

Fasano spent the last eight seasons on the Atlanta Braves’ Major League staff, where he played a key role in player communication and development, particularly in bridging on-field performance with advanced analytics. Now with the Angels, he’s helping guide their pitching and catching staff through a modern, data-driven lens.

In this episode, Fasano shares how to communicate complex data effectively, the evolution of the catching position, and what it’s really like working day-to-day at the MLB level.

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J.J. Picollo - Executive Vice President & General Manager, Kansas City Royals

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Kansas City Royals Executive Vice President & General Manager J.J. Picollo, who just wrapped up one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Major League Baseball history. Under his leadership, the Royals posted an 86-76 record in 2024—30 wins better than the previous season—earning a postseason berth and making Picollo the runner-up for MLB Executive of the Year.

In this episode, Picollo dives into the Royals’ recent success, including the offseason investments that helped spark the turnaround, such as the franchise-record extension for Bobby Witt Jr. and a league-leading $110M spent on free agents. We also discuss his 19-year journey with the Royals, his emphasis on player development, and how his early coaching days at George Mason and George Washington shaped his leadership style. Picollo offers a unique look into managing a staff, creating organizational alignment, and building a sustainable, winning culture from the ground up.

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Rob Ducey - 13 year MLB veteran, Core Energy Belt

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Rob Ducey, a 13-year MLB veteran and 2013 inductee into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame. Ducey broke into the big leagues in 1987 with the Toronto Blue Jays and wrapped up his playing career with the Montreal Expos in 2001. In 2004, he made history as the first Canadian to play for Team Canada, the Blue Jays, and the Expos.

In this episode, Ducey shares what it takes to hit at the Major League level, lessons from his playing days, and how he’s using those experiences to develop high school players in Florida today. We also touch on his work as a scout and his role with Core Energy Belt.

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Mike Birkbeck - Associate Head Coach, Kent State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Few coaches in college baseball have had the kind of long-term impact Mike Birkbeck has made at Kent State. Since becoming Associate Head Coach in 2004, Birkbeck has helped guide the Golden Flashes to 10 MAC regular season titles, 10 MAC Tournament championships, and 10 NCAA Regional appearances. Widely respected as one of the top pitching minds in NCAA Division I baseball, Birkbeck brings decades of playing and coaching experience to the mound.

In this episode, Birkbeck shares his philosophy on pitching development, program-building, and preparing players for the next level. With 53 former players going on to sign professional contracts—including big leaguers Andrew Chafin and Eric Lauer—his track record speaks for itself. Whether you’re a coach or a pitcher, this is a masterclass in long-term development and consistency.

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Kurt Elbin - Associate Head Coach, Virginia Tech University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Virginia Tech associate head coach and recruiting coordinator Kurt Elbin has built one of the most explosive offenses in college baseball. Now in his seventh season with the Hokies, Elbin has helped shape a lineup that consistently ranks among the nation’s best in key offensive categories. Through 17 games this season, Tech’s hitters have posted a .314 batting average, 151 runs scored, 50 doubles, 21 home runs, and a .971 OPS—numbers that reflect Elbin’s expertise in hitting development and player recruitment.

In this episode, Elbin breaks down his approach to coaching hitters, the keys to developing a dynamic offense, and his experience recruiting across Division I, II, and III. From his early coaching days at Shippensburg and Thiel College to his success at VCU and Virginia Tech, he shares invaluable insights on building a winning program, hitting and player development!

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Jim Gantt - Head Baseball Coach, Catawba College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

With 29 seasons at the helm of Catawba College baseball, Jim Gantt has built one of the premier programs in NCAA Division II. A three-time ABCA Region Coach of the Year and 12-time Conference Coach of the Year, Gantt has led the Catawba Indians to multiple national semifinal appearances, including an impressive 2024 season where his squad earned the program’s first-ever NCAA Regional hosting opportunity and finished the year ranked No. 3 in the country.

In this episode, Gantt shares insights into sustaining success at the collegiate level, building championship-caliber teams, and the coaching philosophies that have kept Catawba at the top of the game for nearly three decades. A member of the Catawba Sports Hall of Fame, Gantt’s leadership continues to shape the future of the program and the players who come through it.

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Vince Kolbe - 2024 Pacific Association Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we sit down with 2024 ABCA Pacific Association Assistant Coach of the Year Vince Kolbe, who played a key role in Palomar College’s dominant 2024 season.

With a 36-11 overall record and a 23-2 mark in conference play, Kolbe’s work developing the catching corps and coaching first base has been instrumental in the Comets’ success.

In this episode, Kolbe shares insights into his approach to catcher development, coaching philosophies, and building a winning culture at the JUCO level. We also dive into his coaching journey—from working with hitters and outfielders at Moorpark College to his time at Agoura High School—and how his entrepreneurial mindset translates to success on the field.

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Bryan Madsen - Manager, 12U Team USA

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Fresh off leading Team USA to gold at the WBSC U-12 Baseball World Cup, Bryan Madsen joins the ABCA Podcast to share his journey and insights into coaching young athletes at the highest level. In his first year as 12U National Team Manager, Madsen guided Team USA to an impressive 57-9 run differential, a .357 team batting average, and a dominant 0.86 ERA on the way to the program’s eighth gold medal since 2013.

In this episode, we dive into what it takes to develop elite young talent, Madsen’s experience coaching internationally, and how his background—including six years in the U.S. Marine Corps—has shaped his leadership style. Now in his first season as an assistant coach at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, Madsen continues to make an impact at all levels of the game.

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Kevin Coe - Academy Director, Cincinnati Reds

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we’re joined by Kevin Coe, Cincinnati Reds Academy Director of Baseball and Softball. With a career dedicated to player development, Coe has been instrumental in providing opportunities for young athletes to reach the next level. Before joining the Reds in 2022, he played a key role in building the Chicago White Sox ACE program and working with the Pullman Community Center, helping countless players achieve their dreams of playing college baseball.

In this episode, Coe shares insights into developing young talent, expanding access to the game, and his work with ABCA’s Youth and Travel Committees. As the newly named Chair of the Youth and Travel Service Awards Committee, his impact on the grassroots level of baseball continues to grow.

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Peter Flaherty - Baseball America

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We continue our discussion on the NCAA Div. I college season preview from yesterday with Baseball America’s Peter Flaherty.

As the 2025 season approaches, Flaherty shares his insights on the teams, players, and storylines that will shape the year ahead. Get ready for opening day with this in-depth look at what’s ahead this season!

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Mike Rooney, Kendall Rogers and Aaron Fitt - D1Baseball.com

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Our college season preview series continues with the powerhouse trio from D1Baseball.com—Kendall Rogers, Aaron Fitt, and Mike Rooney!

In this episode, they provide expert analysis, insider insights, and everything you need to know heading into the 2025 season. We also discuss the ever-changing landscape of NCAA Division I baseball. With the NCAA Div. I season right around the corner, there’s no better way to get ready for opening day!

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Noah Sharp - The JUCO Ball Blog

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We’re keeping our college season preview series rolling withThe JUCO Ball Blog (JBB) founder Noah Sharp, a go-to source for junior college baseball coverage.

Since launching The JBB in 2018, Sharp has dedicated himself to shining a spotlight on junior college baseball, both NJCAA and Pacific Association Division, providing in-depth coverage and analysis of the entire JUCO landscape.

In this episode, Sharp breaks down the top JUCO teams, standout players, and key storylines for the 2025 season. With NJCAA and Pacific Association teams already in action, it’s the perfect time to dive into this conversation. Then, subscribe to The JBB on Substack for even more JUCO coverage.

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Robby Gutierrez - NAIA Ball

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We’re continuing our college season preview series with NAIA Ball founder Robby Gutierrez, who has been shining a light on NAIA baseball for nearly a decade. Since launching NAIA Ball eight years ago and the NAIA Ball Podcast in 2018, Robby and his team have dedicated themselves to covering the NAIA landscape and growing the game at this level.

In this episode, Robby previews the 2025 NAIA baseball season, highlighting top teams, players to watch, and key storylines. He also reflects on the legacy of NAIA Ball co-founder Cody Butler, who passed away in 2022, and how the team continues to carry on his passion for the game. Tune in for an in-depth look at one of the most competitive levels of college baseball!

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Jim Dixon - D3Baseball.com

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

We’re continuing our college season preview episodes with one of the most trusted voices in NCAA Division III baseball—Jim Dixon! As the managing editor of D3baseball.com, Jim has been at the forefront of NCAA Div. III coverage for nearly 30 years, delivering news, analysis, and historical insights to fans and coaches alike.

In this episode, we dive into the evolution of NCAA Div. III coverage, key teams and storylines for the upcoming season, and how D3baseball.com became a go-to source for all things Division III baseball. From his early days launching Division III Baseball Online in 1995 to shaping the game’s media landscape today, Dixon shares his expertise on what to watch for this year.

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Wayne Cavadi - The DII Report Newsletter

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 10:00:00 +0000

To kick off our college baseball season previews, we’re joined by the Wayne Cavadi, author of The DII Report Newsletter. Cavadi has been instrumental in shining a spotlight on the growth of NCAA Div. II athletics.

In this episode, we dive into his latest article, DII Baseball 2025 101 – A Crash Course, and discuss what to expect this season. With months of research behind his analysis, Cavadi breaks down the top teams, key storylines, and what makes NCAA Div. II baseball unique.

Tune in on your favorite podcast streaming platform or directly within the My ABCA app! Also, don’t forget to check out ABCA.org/polls for the latest coaches polls in every division of college baseball!

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Dunn Muramaru - 2025 ABCA Hall of Fame Inductee

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Dunn Muramaru’s nearly 50-year coaching career has shaped the landscape of baseball in Hawaii. The 2024 National High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame inductee has led the Mid-Pacific Institute Owls for nearly four decades, guiding them to five state titles, 14 Interscholastic League of Honolulu (ILH) championships, and over 600 wins.

In this episode, Muramaru reflects on his remarkable career, including his early years at Kalani High School, the development of more than 100 collegiate players, and the impact his teams have made on and off the field. Hear the stories behind his accolades, including being named ABCA/Diamond Sports High School Div. III Regional Coach of the Year and receiving the prestigious Chuck Leahey Award for outstanding service to baseball in Hawaii. This conversation is a celebration of a lifetime of dedication to the sport.

Tom Meyer - 2025 ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our second 2025 recipient of the Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award, Tom Meyer. Meyer has served as both a teacher and baseball coach for more than 60 years. His coaching career began in 1959 as assistant coach at Northwestern University (Ill.). From 1964-69, Meyer served as the head baseball coach at Northern Illinois University before joining the staff at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During the summers of 1975 and 1977, Meyer also coached the Swedish National Team. In 1985, Meyer started the baseball program at Brookfield (Wisc.) Academy before being named head coach at Riverside University High School (Wisc.) in 1990. Now an assistant for the Riverside team, Meyer has been involved with the program for more than 30 years. A co-founder of both the Wisconsin Baseball Coaches Association (WBCA) and the University of Wisconsin Dugout Club, Meyer also played a key role in developing the Milwaukee RBI League that included an instructional program, an eight-team Select League, and an all-star travel team that competed in the RBI Regional Tournament. Meyer's involvement in baseball extends to having served as a past chair of both the ABCA's Editorial and Public Relations Committees.

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Bill Percy - 2025 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award Recipient

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

With nearly five decades of coaching experience spanning multiple continents, Bill Percy is a true icon of the game. The distinguished recipient of the 2025 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award, Percy has made a lasting impact on baseball locally, nationally, and internationally. In this episode, we explore Percy’s incredible journey, which began at Florida Southern College as both a player and assistant coach under ABCA Hall of Famer Hal Smeltzly.

Percy’s high school coaching career saw remarkable success in Colorado Springs, where he led Palmer and Mitchell High Schools to multiple state championship appearances, earning ABCA/Diamond Sports High School Regional Coach of the Year honors in 1999. Beyond the U.S., Percy’s international coaching contributions and work with USA Baseball have cemented his legacy as a global ambassador of the game. Now an assistant coach at Northeastern Junior College and Executive Director of the Colorado Dugout Club Coaches Association, Percy shares invaluable insights on coaching, mentorship, and the enduring power of baseball.

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Dave Jarvis - ABCA Hall of Fame Class of 2025

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Jarvis recently completed his 27th season at the helm of the Bruins, where he has compiled 763 wins since leading the program in its first NCAA Division I season in 1998. As Belmont’s all-time winningest coach, Jarvis has built a legacy of excellence. Adding to his remarkable career, he has achieved over 1,000 wins, including his tenure as head coach at his alma mater, Three Rivers Community College, and gained valuable experience as an assistant at Murray State.

Known for his humility and character, Coach Jarvis exemplifies what it means to be an ABCA Hall of Famer. Tune in to hear his reflections on a lifetime in coaching, the lessons learned along the way, and the values that have defined his incredible career.

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81st Annual ABCA Convention Preview - Gaylord National Harbor

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year! It’s time to kick off 2025 with a bang, as the World’s Largest Baseball Convention is in the nation’s capital for the first time since 1975!

The 81st annual ABCA Convention promises to be an unforgettable event, bringing together the best in the game for four days of education, inspiration, and connection.

This is a must-listen, whether you're attending in-person or participating in the Clinics Live Video Stream! In today’s episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know to make the most of this extraordinary event. From keynote speakers and panel discussions to the Trade Show and networking opportunities, we’ve got all the details to ensure your experience is nothing short of spectacular.

Our mission each year is to create an unforgettable event for our members, guests, sponsors, and exhibitors—and this year is no exception. We can’t wait to welcome you to Washington, D.C., from January 2nd to the 5th, for an incredible start to the new year. See you there!

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Dan Griesbaum - 2025 Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we celebrate Dan Griesbaum, head coach at Grosse Pointe South (MI) High School and the recipient of the prestigious 2025 ABCA/Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award.

Griesbaum has dedicated 41 years to Grosse Pointe South, taking over as head coach in 1984 and amassing over 900 wins—the most among active coaches in Michigan. A former player and assistant coach at Central Michigan under the awards' namesake, Dave Keilitz, Griesbaum embodies the values of integrity and leadership that this award represents.

Named after Dave Keilitz, the ABCA Executive Director from 1994-2014 and legendary Central Michigan University head coach and athletic director, the award honors those who uphold the highest standards in coaching.

Tune in as we reflect on Griesbaum’s incredible career, his lasting impact on the game, and the significance of being recognized with this award.

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Jim Schlossnagle - ABCA Hall of Fame Class of 2025

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

It’s an exciting week as the ABCA Convention kicks off this Thursday, and we’re rolling out episodes with the incoming ABCA Hall of Famers!

Joining us first is University of Texas head coach, and former 2023 ABCA President, Jim Schlossnagle. A member of the ABCA Board of Directors, Schlossnagle is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier baseball coaches. Over his 23-year head coaching career, he has taken programs at Texas A&M and TCU to historic heights, amassing 945 career wins and becoming one of only four coaches to win multiple College World Series games with multiple programs.

Schlossnagle began his coaching journey on Rick Jones’ staff at Elon, where he also played collegiately, before continuing their success together at Tulane. With his exceptional career achievements, leadership in the ABCA, and engaging personality, this episode promises is as inspiring as it is entertaining!

Ramon Garza - Dallas College Eastfield, NJCAA Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA NJCAA Division III Assistant Coach of the Year, Ramon Garza.

Recently named the head coach at Dallas College Mountain View, Garza reflects on his incredible run with Dallas College Eastfield, where he helped lead the team to the NJCAA World Series last season. Eastfield had a stellar year, winning the Dallas Athletic Conference title with a 25-5 record in league play. Garza’s coaching journey includes a stint as an assistant at UT-Dallas, following his playing career at Cornell in the Ivy League.

In this episode, Coach Garza shares his blueprint for coaching the next generation of players, offering invaluable insights into leadership, player development, and fostering a winning culture.

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Louie Martinez - Jesuit High School (FL), High School Div. II Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Martinez played a pivotal role in leading Jesuit High School (FL) to their seventh State Championship and third since 2019. Jesuit, a perennial powerhouse in Florida and on the national scene, consistently tackles one of the toughest schedules in the country. Martinez, who oversees hitters and infielders, brings decades of experience from his time as a standout player at the University of Tampa—where he won a National Championship in 1998 alongside Jesuit head coach Miguel Menendez—and his four seasons of professional baseball. In addition to his coaching success, Martinez also teaches K-8 at Trinity School for Children.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Jesuit’s winning culture and the strategies behind their sustained excellence.

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JD Hulse - Birmingham Southern, NCAA Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

A Birmingham-Southern alum, Hulse spent nine seasons coaching the Panthers, playing a key role in their remarkable 2024 run to the College World Series under extraordinary circumstances. Over the past seven years, Hulse helped guide Birmingham Southern to six NCAA Regional appearances and two trips to the College World Series.

Following the program’s closure this spring, Hulse moved to Valdosta State, joining longtime mentor Jan Weisberg. With additional coaching experience at Louisiana Tech, Hulse brings a wealth of knowledge on building competitive programs and navigating adversity.

Tune in as Hulse shares insights from his incredible journey, from Birmingham Southern to Valdosta State, and the lessons learned along the way.

Jake Vickerson - Shelton State, NJCAA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Vickerson has been a key part of the Shelton State baseball program for 11 seasons as both a coach and former player. In 2024, the Bucs posted an impressive 44-19 record, setting a school record with 28 conference wins and earning a trip to the JUCO World Series in Grand Junction, Colorado.

A former standout centerfielder for the Bucs in 2012 and 2013, Vickerson capped off his playing career in the SEC at Mississippi State.

Tune in to hear his insights on coaching, player development, and building a winning program.

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Jared Martin, University of the Cumberlands - NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Martin recently completed his 10th season as Associate Head Coach at the University of the Cumberlands, helping lead the Patriots to a record-breaking 52-8 season and their second consecutive World Series appearance. As the recruiting coordinator and coach for hitters and infielders, Martin has been instrumental in the team’s success, helping set single-season records for wins (52), home runs (144), RBI (626), and walks (356).

A standout player for the Patriots from 2011-2014, Martin earned MSC Freshman of the Year honors, the 2014 Gold Glove at third base, and still holds spots in UC’s record books for batting average, games played, hits, RBI, and doubles.

Tune in for a deep dive into his approach to recruiting, player development, and building a championship-caliber program.

Kevin McMullan, University of Virginia - NCAA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Now entering his 22nd season as Associate Head Coach at the University of Virginia, McMullan has been instrumental in building one of the most consistent programs in NCAA Division I baseball. With his leadership, the Cavaliers have achieved a National Championship in 2015, seven College World Series appearances, and 17 NCAA Regional appearances, amassing 886 wins. The ABCA Assistant Coach of the Year is renowned as one of the best recruiters and developers in the game and has guided over 100 players to professional contracts, with 52 UVA position players selected in the MLB Draft—17 of whom reached the big leagues. Before UVA, McMullan coached professionally in the Braves organization and collegiately at East Carolina, St. John’s, and his alma mater, IUP.

Tune in for insights on recruitment, player development, and the secrets behind building a powerhouse program.

Alex Backhaus, University of Central Missouri - NCAA Div. II Assistant Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Backhaus recently completed his seventh season at the University of Central Missouri, leading the Mules to an impressive 52-10 record and a trip to the NCAA Div. II College World Series, which earned him Assistant Coach of the Year honors. Known for their powerful offense, the Mules scored 662 runs, hit 126 home runs, and stole 197 bases while maintaining a .982 fielding percentage. Under Backhaus' leadership, Central Missouri has made NCAA Regionals every year, with three World Series appearances. A former player at William Jewell College, Backhaus has also coached at Ottawa, KCKCC, and Lindenwood.

This episode dives into practice strategies, recruiting, and player development—get your pad and pen ready for some valuable insights!

John Kremer - Minor League Rehab Coordinator, New York Yankees

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

John Kremer has been with the Yankees organization since 1999, originally signing as a pitcher out of the University of Evansville after being drafted three times. Following five seasons on the mound in the Yankees’ minor league system, he transitioned to scouting and front office roles, ultimately taking on the position of Director of Performance Science in 2016. Now as the Minor League Rehab Coordinator, Kremer shares his insights on keeping players healthy and maximizing performance.

Jimmy Filingeri - Head Baseball Coach, Our Lady of Lourdes High School (NY)

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we return to youth baseball with Jimmy Filingeri, head coach at Our Lady of Lourdes High School (NY) and host of the Clearing the Bases Podcast.

Filingeri brings a wealth of experience from his work with Evolution Baseball Club and his contributions to ABCA’s Inside Pitch Magazine, the Youth Baseball Committee, and the upcoming Youth Baseball Summit in November.

In this episode, we talk practice planning for youth baseball, covering effective strategies and insights to help young players develop their skills and love for the game.

Troy Marrow - Academy Coordinator, Futures Training Center

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

A four-year letterwinner at NC Central, Marrow served as captain of the baseball team for three seasons before transitioning into coaching at his alma mater, where he also earned a master’s degree in athletic administration. He later spent a season at George Washington University before moving into professional baseball, working in the San Francisco Giants front office for two years and serving as the Baltimore Orioles’ minor league fundamentals coach from 2021 to 2023. Now, Marrow serves as Academy Coordinator at Futures Training Center, a facility in Corona, California that is focused on developing baseball and softball athletes’ physicality and skills through the use of technology and data to inform training decisions, while also being the Founder of Above the Shoulders, a baseball training organization that provides coaching, camps, and consulting, focused on player development both physically and mentally.

In this episode, Coach Marrow dives into infield development, discussing key techniques and strategies for coaching at all levels.

Jim Schwanke - Agent, The Ballengee Group

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we welcome Jim Schwanke, agent at the Ballengee Group and former college baseball coach. Schwanke brings a wealth of experience to the table, having coached at powerhouse programs Oklahoma State and LSU. His offensive strategies were instrumental in LSU’s back-to-back National Championships in 1996 and 1997, where he coined the term "Gorilla Ball." Schwanke revolutionized hitting with his B.L.A.S.T. (Base, Leverage, Arms, Speed, Timing) system, which changed the way hitting was taught in the mid to late '90s and early 2000s. Now an agent and co-host of the Baseball Forward Podcast, Schwanke shares his insights on the evolution of the game, player development, and the transition from coaching to representing athletes.The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is supported by VELO Sports. Take your game and your bat speed to the next level with VELO Sports. With over 10 years of experience in speed training, VELO Sports has released the easiest and fastest way to help all players increase bat speed. VELO Sports is used by MLB organizations and Collegiate teams who know that bat speed is a true game changer. Check out VELO’s innovative bat speed training system and removable Puck Knob Tech today at www.velosports.com.

Ty Gillum - Head Coach, Savannah Bananas

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

A 16-year continuous ABCA member, Gillum has been a key figure in the ABCA Convention, frequently moderating the Infield Hot Stove. Since taking over as head coach of the Bananas in 2018, Gillum has guided the team to back-to-back CPL Championships in 2021 and 2022, while also seeing over 20 players drafted into MLB.

Now fully embracing the excitement of Banana Ball, Gillum leads a team that has sold over a million tickets and sold out MLB stadiums across the country. With a personal mission of "Positively Impacting a Million Lives," Gillum's passion and infectious personality are evident in everything he does.

In this episode, we explore the Bananas' "Fan First" approach and their recently announced 40-date tour. Tune in for an engaging conversation on building a culture of fun and success, both on and off the field!

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Tyrone Brooks - MLB Senior Director of the Front Office and Field Staff Diversity Pipeline Program

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

With 29 years of experience in professional baseball, Tyrone Brooks began his career with support from Hank Aaron and the Atlanta Braves after graduating from the University of Maryland.

Known for his commitment to "paying it forward," Brooks has been instrumental in helping countless individuals begin their careers in professional baseball. His influence extends to the ABCA, where he played a key role in the formation of the Diversity in Baseball Committee and continues to contribute at the annual Diversity in Baseball Workshops at the ABCA Convention.

In this episode, Tyrone shares valuable advice on advancing your career and what it takes to succeed in the world of professional baseball.

Tony Vitello - ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. I Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Vitello led the Tennessee Volunteers to a remarkable 60-13 record, capturing NCAA Division I National Championship in 2024. Under his leadership, the Volunteers have made three College World Series appearances in the last four seasons, solidifying Tennessee as one of the premier programs in Division I baseball. Vitello, who took over the program in 2017, has built a legacy of success, with 17 regional appearances across his 20-year coaching career, including stops at Mizzou, TCU, and Arkansas. Known for his recruiting and player development, Vitello has coached numerous MLB stars such as Ben Joyce, Garrett Crochet, Andrew Benintendi, and Max Scherzer. Vitello will continue the tradition of the national champion kicking off the ABCA Convention Clinics on Friday, January 3, 2025 in Washington, D.C.

Tune in to hear a preview of Vitello's convention talk along with insights on building and maintaining a championship culture.

Joe Urso - ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. II Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Joe Urso, a six-time ABCA National Coach of the Year and ten-time ABCA Regional Coach of the Year, has built a legacy as one of the most successful coaches in college baseball. Over 22 seasons as head coach, he has led the University of Tampa to six National Championships, including in 2024, and recently surpassed 1,000 career wins.

The Spartans, the winningest NCAA program of the 2000s, owe much of their success to Urso's leadership. A former Spartan All-American and then professional player in the Los Angeles Angels organization, Urso holds several school records and was inducted into the University of Tampa Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006.

In this episode, Coach Urso shares his approach to sustained success, player development, and the leadership that has made him one of the most respected figures in the game.

Dusty Hart - ABCA/ATEC NJCAA Div. I Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we're joined by ABCA/ATEC NJCAA Division I Coach of the Year, Dusty Hart, head coach of Blinn College.

Hart led the Buccaneers to a stellar 41-17 record and the National Championship in Grand Junction, Colorado in 2024, marking back-to-back World Series appearances in his first two seasons at Blinn. With two national titles under his belt, including one from his 16-year tenure at Grayson in 2008, Hart has a proven track record of success.

Tune in as Coach Hart shares his insights on what it takes to be a head coach and foster a competitive team culture.

Jim Ozella- ABCA/ATEC High School Div. II Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/ATEC High School Division II Coach of the Year, Jim Ozella.

After an illustrious 40-year coaching career, including 25 years at Hart High School (CA), Ozella retired on a high note, leading Hart to the 2024 CIF SS Div. 2 Championship with a 26-5 record. Hart High School's storied program has captured 36 League Championships, and Ozella has played a pivotal role in developing talent, with eight of his former players, including Tyler Glasnow, James Shields, and Trevor Bauer, reaching the big leagues.

Originally from Illinois, Ozella moved to California in 1983, beginning his coaching journey at Bishop Alemany before his impactful tenure at Hart. He’s also an author, having recently published The Greatest Time to Be a Kid, reflecting on his childhood in Illinois.

Get ready to take notes as Coach Ozella shares his vast experience and insights on fostering competitive spirit in young athletes.

Sommer McCartney - ABCA/ATEC Pacific Association Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/ATEC Pacific Association Coach of the Year, Sommer McCartney, head coach of Saddleback College.

McCartney led the Bobcats to a stellar 34-17 record and the 3C2A Championship this season, continuing his legacy of excellence since taking over from his mentor, Jack Hodges, in 2011. With back-to-back Orange Empire Conference titles in 2022 and 2023, McCartney has firmly established Saddleback as one of the top programs in the region.

An Associate Professor in Kinesiology, McCartney brings a wealth of experience from his playing days, which include a national championship with UC Riverside and a professional stint with the Florida Marlins.

Tune in to hear McCartney’s journey, insights, and an in-depth discussion that builds on his recent interview from the May/June issue of Inside Pitch Magazine.

Brian Fowler - ABCA/ATEC High School Div. III Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we're joined by ABCA/ATEC High School Division III Coach of the Year, Brian Fowler.

Fowler, who led Taylor High School (AR) to their third consecutive State Championship and eighth overall, reflects on a remarkable season where the Tigers finished 23-4. Known for his old-school approach to coaching, Coach Fowler emphasizes the core values of honesty, accountability, and respect—principles that have been instrumental in his team's sustained success.

In this episode, Coach Fowler shares his insights on bridging traditional coaching methods with the unique needs of today’s players, offering a blend of wisdom and adaptability that’s sure to resonate with coaches at every level.

Pete Egbert - ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. III Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. III National Coach of the Year, Pete Egbert.

Heading into his 18th season as head coach at Misericordia University, Egbert led the Cougars to their first National Championship this season, with his 600th career win clinching the title game. This year marked back-to-back appearances for the Cougars in the NCAA Division III College World Series, and they also had an appearance in 2018. Misericordia finished the season with a 41-11 record, including a 19-2 mark in conference play.

Egbert has been a collegiate coach for 21 seasons between Fitchburg and Misericordia. He has been named Conference Coach of the Year six times and was an ABCA Regional Coach of the Year the past two seasons.

Under Egbert's leadership, Misericordia plays an impressive style of baseball, putting pressure on the defense (.318 AVG & 161 SB), pitching at an elite level (3.77 ERA), and taking care of the ball defensively (.969 FLD).

Tune in to hear Coach Egbert share his strategies, insights, and experiences from his team's remarkable season.

Marc Johnson - ABCA/ATEC High School Div. I Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we are honored to feature ABCA Hall of Famer, Marc Johnson.

Johnson, who retired following the 2024 season, had been the head coach at Cherry Creek High School for an astonishing 52 seasons. He capped off his illustrious career with a Colorado State Championship this Spring, bringing his record to a remarkable 871 wins, 15 State Championship appearances, and nine State Championships. His stellar final year earned him ABCA/ATEC High School Division I Coach of the Year honors.

Not only has Johnson excelled during the high school season, but he also ran the Cherry Creek summer baseball program, which has produced seven MLB first round draft picks. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the ABCA Hall of Fame in 2011.

In this episode, Coach Johnson shares invaluable insights and advice from his decades of experience. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting, you'll want to have your pad and pen ready for this coaching masterclass. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the true legends of high school baseball.

Scott Laverty - Head Coach, Chapman University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode of the ABCA Podcast, we welcome ABCA Board Member and head coach at Chapman University, Scott Laverty.

Laverty, entering his 12th season at Chapman, has firmly established the program as one of the best in NCAA Division III, highlighted by a National Championship in 2019. Laverty began his coaching career at his alma mater, UC Riverside, in 1997. He then moved on to his first head coaching position at the University of Redlands, where he accumulated 298 wins over 14 seasons.

Beyond his on-field success, Laverty has been a vital contributor to the ABCA, serving two terms as Chair of the NCAA Division III on the ABCA Executive Committee and a member of the ABCA Hall of Fame Committee. This past June, he was nominated by the ABCA Board of Directors to serve as the incoming Fourth Vice President of the Association.

Tune in as we dive into Laverty’s journey, his insights on building a successful program, and his contributions to the ABCA and the broader baseball community.

Johnny Hernandez - Head Coach, Bethune-Cookman

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Join us on the ABCA Podcast as we sit down with Johnny Hernandez, head coach of Bethune-Cookman University.

Growing up in South Florida and coaching at Hialeah High School, Hernandez's journey in baseball has been remarkable. He founded the ASA College program in Miami in 2014 and worked with USA Baseball as a scouting task force member. Since taking over the Bethune-Cookman program in 2018, Hernandez has led the team to impressive victories and a strong season finish in the SWAC East, earning the Black College Nines Coach of the Year Award.

Tune in to hear Hernandez discuss building a winning program and his vision for the future of Bethune-Cookman and HBCU baseball.

This episode is sponsored by AWRE Sports. Are you looking to improve your use of video for player development, live-streaming, instant replay or opponent scouting? Most coaches answer "Yes." That's how AWRE Sports began: To solve the video challenges in baseball & softball. Whether you are using their multi-angle, fixed camera system or their mobile software, AWRE empowers coaches to maximize every aspect of video, all in one comprehensive solution. Their users range from MLB teams and reigning Collegiate National Champions to strong high school programs and literally everything in between. So the real questions becomes: Will you turn video into a powerful tool to elevate your program or stick with the status quo. You can find out more information at awresports.com.

Michael Napoleon & Dr. Tyler Standifird - VELO Sports

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we are thrilled to have two exceptional guests from the world of sports performance and biomechanics: VELO Sports' Michael Napoleon and Dr. Tyler Standifird.

Napoleon, renowned for his pioneering work in overspeed training, owned and operated Catalyst Golf Performance in the Chicago area before developing the SuperSpeed Golf Training System. His innovative approach has been widely adopted in the baseball world since 2017, influencing MLB organizations and collegiate teams alike.

Dr. Standifird, an esteemed associate professor of Biomechanics at Utah Valley University, earned his PhD from the University of Tennessee in 2015 and now leads the Biomechanics Laboratory at Utah Valley, where he focuses on sports performance and injury prevention research. Additionally, Dr. Standifird serves as a consultant for VELO Sports and SuperSpeed Golf and has recently been named the Research and Science Director for Smart 2 Move Force Plates.

Tune in as we dive into their expertise and explore the cutting-edge techniques that are revolutionizing training and performance in baseball.

NCAA Div. III World Series Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast episode is the final episode that was recorded on-location at a championship site –– the NCAA Div. III World Series in Eastlake, Ohio.

We had a chance to sit down with coaches of the program's that competed in the tournament, including Travis Beazley (Lynchburg), Eric Cirella (Salve Regina), Pete Egbert (Misericordia), Ray Hedrick (Randolph Macon), Frank Pericolosi (Pomona Pitzer), John Vodenlich (UW-Whitewater) and Jan Weisberg (Birmingham Southern).

Congratulations to Pete Egbert, the 2024 ABCA/ATEC NCAA Div. III National Coach of the Year, and his Misericordia program for capturing their first National Championship in a hard-fought series against UW-Whitewater.

Nathan Hemphill - Owner, PSP3

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

A recurring guest on the ABCA Podcast, Nathan Hemphill, PSP3 Owner & Director of Sports Performance, joins us in this week's episode. Hemphill was previously a guest on the ABCA Podcast in 2022 and has also spoken at multiple events, like the 2021 Kansas City Barnstormers Regional Clinic and the 2024 ABCA Convention. You can listen in to his previous podcast appearance (5/23/22) online at www.ABCA.org/podcast or using your favorite podcast streaming platform and watch his former presentations in the ABCA Video Library at www.ABCA.org/videos.

Hemphill has been training baseball players for almost 20 years and has developed a great track record for keeping players healthy and thriving on the field. This episode highlights some of the new assessments that PSP3 is using with their athletes.

Dr. Tom Hanson

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

This week joining us on the ABCA Podcast is a pioneer in the peak performance field, Dr. Tom Hanson.

Hanson is the former Director of Performance Enhancement for the New York Yankees and also worked with the Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels and Minnesota Twins. He wrote one of the seminal baseball peak performance books with Ken Ravizza, Heads Up Baseball. Hanson also is author of the book, Play Big: Mental Toughness Secrets That Take Baseball Players to the Next Level. Hanson is widely known for his studies and work utilizing tapping to help players with the throwing yips.

Hanson received a Ph.D. in sport psychology from the University of Virginia, where he worked with legendary sports psychologist Bob Rotella. He spent eight years coaching baseball and teaching in the Sport and Exercise Science department at Skidmore College. Recently, Hanson has been helping business professionals at companies such as Microsoft, Verizon and Pepperidge Farm.

NJCAA Div. I World Series Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast episode was recorded on-location at the JUCO World Series in Grand Junction, Colorado.

In this episode, we're joined by some of the coaches of the competing programs, including Travis Lallemand (Crowder), Preston McDonald (Florence-Darlington Tech), Eric Horner (Johnson County), Dash O’Neil (Georgia Highland) and national champion Dusty Hart (Blinn).

NAIA World Series Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast episode was recorded on-location at the NAIA World Series in Lewiston, Idaho. Lewiston has hosted the NAIA World Series for 22 years and the town always rallies around the event. The night prior to the opening game, the ABCA and City of Lewiston host a youth clinic, which had over 400 kids in attendance this year and we thank the coaches and players from the competing teams that took part in making the youth clinic a success once again!

In this episode, we're joined by Billy Berry (Tennessee Wesleyan), Jonathan Burton (Reinhardt), Adrian Dinkel (Southeastern), Bobby Halford (William Carey), Joe McDonald (Arizona Christian), Bill Neale (Kansas Wesleyan), Brett Neffendorf (Indiana Southeast), Jeremy Sheetinger (Georgia Gwinnett), and Brad Shelton (Cumberland) to discuss their season's and NAIA baseball as a whole.

National Champion, Larry Mahoney of Hope International will be joining the ABCA Podcast in a future episode to discuss his program's first NAIA national title!

Chuck Wolf - Biomechanist, Owner of Human Motion Associates

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Wolf has been a practicing Exercise Physiologist and Biomechanist for 44 years, specializing in injury evaluation and gait & motion analysis. For nearly the last decade, Wolf has been conducting a study on UCL injuries and has found a significant correlation with hip immobility opposite the throwing arm, stride length, and elbow injuries. This episode is a deep dive into how the lower half affects arm health and arm injuries.

Brandon Agamennone - Founder, Pro Source Athletics & Baseball Prodigy App

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is Baseball Prodigy and Pro Source Athletics founder, Brandon Agamennone. Agamennone was Maryland’s Gatorade Player of the Year in 1994 before pitching for the University of Maryland in the mid 90’s. Agamennone pitched professionally for 8 seasons with the Expos, Orioles and Pirates. Agamennone scouted for the Padres, Braves and was with the Red Sox when they won their 2018 World Series. Agamennone founded Pro Source Athletics in 2004 and is the author of the book Pitching Prodigy: Unleashing Greatness on the Mound. Agamennone’s current project is Baseball Prodigy and the ProLook College Baseball Recruiting App. This is an entertaining listen on professional baseball, travel baseball, entrepenueriship and training pitchers.

Alex Wyche & Reggie Hollins - Minority Prospects

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 May 2024 09:22:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast are Minority Prospects’ Alex Wyche and Reggie Hollins. Wyche founded Minority Prospects after a successful stint coaching high school baseball in the State of Georgia. Wyche served as an educator and coach for 13 years. Wyche was the first black head coach at Griffin High School. Wyche’s next opportunity was at Redan High School, which is historically one of the best high school programs in the country. In seven seasons Wyche had over 100 wins, seven MLB draft picks and 60 players obtaining college scholarships. Wyche was the 2022 recipient of the Georgia High School State Coach of the Year. Hollins is currently the President/COO of Minority Prospects. Hollins came from the college side after 13 seasons as an assistant and head coach at Tuskegee University. In Hollins’ time coaching at Tuskegee the Golden Tigers had the most wins since 1999 in his first season as head coach and played for an SIAC Conference Championship for the first time since 1989. In 2021 Hollins spoke for the ABCA Virtual Convention during COVID, if you want to dive into his talk on the website. This is a highly entertaining listen. The three of us had a great time. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Adam Sarancik - Owner, Elevate Sports Academy

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 May 2024 12:44:21 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is the owner of Elevate Sports Academy, Adam Sarancik. Sarancik mentors student-athletes in physical conditioning, nutrition, career & college counseling and sport skills. Sarancik has spent most of his adult life mentoring youth ages 8-22 in baseball, softball, soccer and basketball. In baseball, Sarancik’s teams have consistently won championships at every youth league and high school level. In administration, Sarancik has served as a league founder, board member and coaches’ & players’ clinic director over the course of his 40+ year coaching career. Sarancik earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from San Diego State University, Juris Doctor Degree from the University of San Diego and his Masters of Arts in Teaching Degree from Western Oregon University. Sarancik has written 11 articles for the ABCA’s Inside Pitch Magazine and is the author of 3 books. Sarancik’s fourth book “Teacher, Role Model, Mentor: Lessons Learned from a Lifetime of Coaching” will be published later this year. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Andy Wise - Head Coach, Corona HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 May 2024 09:16:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Corona High School head coach, Andy Wise. Wise has led Corona to a historic season winning the USA Baseball NHSI and going undefeated in league play for the first time in school history. Corona is ranked #1 in most high school polls. Wise started his playing career for ABCA Hall of Famer Don Sneddon at Santa Ana CC before heading to Long Beach State to play for another legend in Dave Snow. Wise pitched on the 1993 Long Beach State College World Series team. After a brief stint in professional baseball, Wise started his coaching career with another ABCA Hall of Famer Dave Demarest at La Quinta High School. Wise took over the Corona program in 2009 after starting the program at Segerstrom Fundamental in 2006. Wise has built Corona into a nationally known program from a team that was 3-11 in league play the year before Wise showed up on campus. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Open Forum for Travel Baseball

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:55:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast we welcome members of our Travel Committee for an open forum on travel baseball. This is a look behind the curtain of the conversations we have at the ABCA convention and the Youth Summit in November. Rob Hahne, Blake Hibler, Taylor McCollough, Jeff Petty and Jordan Baltimore give us some great insights on what is going on currently in travel baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Brent Hathaway - Head Coach, Missoula Mavericks

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 09:41:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is Missoula Mavericks head coach, Brent Hathaway. Hathaway is one of the winningest coaches at any level with over 1500 wins in 40 years of coaching. Hathaway played collegiately at Gonzaga and UTEP for college coaching legend, Jim Lawler. After college Hathaway went to work as a civil engineer before figuring out coaching and teaching was his passion. Hathaway spent 30 years teaching math at Hellgate Middle School and took over the Mavericks AA program in 1993. Hathaway is the longest tenured Legion coach in Montana. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Jeremy Booth - President, Program 15 Sports

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Program 15 Sports President, Jeremy Booth. Booth started his collegiate playing career at Cypress and New Mexico State. Booth went on to play professionally until the age of 30. Booth was a long time scout for the Mariners, Brewers and Twins. Booth now is the President of Baseball Operations for The New Balance Future Stars Series as well as a Baseball Analyst for CBS TV KHOU 11 in Houston and the Co-Host of the Extra Bases Podcast. This episode is a great example of the many paths we have in the Game of Baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Open Forum for Youth Baseball

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we welcome members of our Youth Committee for an open forum on youth baseball. This is a look behind the curtain of the conversations we have at the ABCA convention and the Youth Summit in November. Deven Morgan, Dan Keller, Paul Gallo, Jimmy Fillingeri, Jeff Sopha, Shon Plack, Jimmy Onate and David Klein give us some great ideas to help youth baseball in this one. Shoutout to everyone that listens to the ABCA Podcast. This is episode 400!!!! The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Craig Noto - Head Coach, Wagner College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Wagner head coach Craig Noto. Noto has an interview with Adam Revelette in the March/April issue of Inside Pitch Magazine. Revelette, Keith Madison, Jon Litchfield and Zach Haile have put together another great issue. Make sure to dive into the magazine if you haven’t. Shoutout to all of our contributors and Delaware head coach, Greg Mamula for his “Frame by Frame” breakdown of former player, Nolan Schanuel. Noto has had an intriguing path in the game of baseball with coaching on the travel side, college and collegiate summer league circuit. Wagner always plays a challenging early season schedule and Noto has the Seahawks rolling in conference play with a 9-2 record. We were able to connect for this podcast due to Wagner being rained out on Friday and with limited time we jump right into the interview. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Perry Keith - Head Coach, Connors State College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 09:39:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is Connors State head coach, Perry Keith. Keith has over 1700 wins in 36 seasons as head coach at Connors State. Keith currently ranks first in wins among active NJCAA baseball coaches and is believed to be the youngest collegiate baseball coach to reach the 1000-win plateau at the age of 42. Keith has guided the Cowboys to 18 Bi-State East Conference championships, eight Region II titles and six appearances at the Div. I JUCO World Series. Keith has coached 40 NJCAA All-Americans with over 120 players drafted and thirteen former players making it to the Major Leagues. The Cowboys are off to a hot start in 2024 with a 29-3 record and hitting close to .400 as a team. Get your pad and pen ready because Coach Keith is a living legend and continues to evolve in his career. Coach Keith gives us a ton of great nuggets in this one. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Jose Vazquez - Head Coach, Alabama State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Alabama State head coach and this summer’s USA Collegiate Team manager, Jose Vazquez. Vazquez was hired as the head coach at Alabama State in the summer of 2016. In 8 seasons the Hornets have 6 SWAC East titles and won the SWAC championship in 2022. The 2023 squad posted a 41-18 record and a 26-4 conference mark. They were the NCAA Div. I leader in batting average at a .334 clip. Vazquez spent 14 years as an assistant at Alabama State and Bethune-Cookman and was honored with the ABCA Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year in 2013. Vazquez’ final 6 years at Bethune they posted a 100-4 record in the MEAC. In this episode we do a deep dive into pre-game & in season practice planning. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Coaches: Let's talk about your new assistant: Rapsodo. With Rapsodo's products you can track everything from how fast a pitcher throws to a batter's spin rate off the bat. Rapsodo's pro-level data gives you the power to look deeper into every athlete's skills, helping them take their game to the next level. Whether you want the basic data points or a more advanced look at a player, Coaches can customize their dashboard to help identify strengths and weaknesses that the naked eye can't see. Turn the cage into a simulated field to make competition and practice more engaging. Take the guesswork out of coaching. From youth baseball to Major League Baseball, Rapsodo is used by thousands of colleges, facilities, and high schools to help their athletes train. Visit Rapsodo.com/baseball to check out their lineup of game-changing technology and how you can implement them into your program. Play On.

Dr. Ismael Gallo - Doctor of Physical Therapy, Baseball Flows

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Heading back into the training world on this week’s ABCA Podcast with Baseball Flows, Dr. Ismael Gallo. Dr. Gallo is a former professional baseball player and current Doctor of Physical Therapy. Dr. Gallo received his Bachelor of Science at Cal State Fullerton and Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Loma Linda University. Dr. Gallo has been an Orthopaedic Physical Resident in Orange, CA for the last 13 years. Dr. Gallo is a renowned expert in the field of baseball and softball training, dedicated to empowering players, coaches, and parents to take charge of their training. Dr. Gallo created the Baseball Flows app which includes therapeutic exercises and instructional videos, carefully selected to address the specific needs of players. Dr. Gallo also works with the general population in his practice so has a unique perspective on training modalities for all age groups. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tim Pettorini - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, The College of Wooster

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee former College of Wooster head coach, Tim Pettorini. In 38 seasons as the head baseball coach at The College of Wooster, Pettorini became one of the winningest NCAA Div. III coaches of all-time. From 1982 until his retirement in 2019, Pettorini led the Fighting Scots to a 1,243-461-6 (.727) record, ranking him seventh all-time in NCAA Div. III wins. Under Pettorini, the Fighting Scots won a league-leading 19 conference championships and made 26 NCAA tournament appearances, advancing to the NCAA Div. III World Series six times and finishing national runners-up in 1997 and 2009.To go along with his 14 North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) Coach of the Year honors, Pettorini is also a six-time ABCA Mideast Region Coach of the Year. A 44-year Lifetime Member of the ABCA, Pettorini coached 59 All-Americans during his tenure and his players received over 200 All-NCAC honors. Prior to taking over at Wooster in 1982, Pettorini taught and coached baseball at Fremont Ross High School in Fremont, Ohio. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Billy Roper - Head Coach, Adairsville High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:01:00 +0000

We have another great minority spotlight ABCA Podcast this week with Adairsville High School head coach, Billy Roper. Roper has 29 years coaching baseball in the State of Georgia. Roper also spent 28 years coaching football and stopped this year to watch his son Chris play football at Dartmouth College. Roper played collegiately at Shorter College and upon graduation went right into coaching and teaching. Roper took over as head coach at his alma mater, Adairsville, in 2013 after spending 4 seasons as an assistant for the Tigers. Prior to joining the staff at Adairsville, Roper was the head coach at Newton High School in Covington for 8 years. Roper has a great story being one of the first people in his family to graduate from high school and college. In this episode we go in depth on what Coach Roper feels like sets Adairsville apart as a community and program. We spend a good portion of the episode on strength training tips for high school baseball players. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

John Vodenlich - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, UW-Whitewater

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee UW-Whitewater head coach, John Vodenlich. Vodenlich is 2-time Div. III National Coach of the Year leading Whitewater to National Championships in 2005 and 2014. Vodenlich is a 10 time WIAC Coach of the Year and 6 time NCAA Regional Coach of the Year. During Vodenlich’s 18 full seasons as head coach, the Warhawks have won 14 WIAC championships and qualified for the NCAA tournament 16 times with 6 College World Series appearances. Vodelnich is a Warhawk alum and is a 2-time ABCA All-American. Following his collegiate career, Vodenlich went on to play professionally in Europe, winning the Slovenian National Championship in 1994. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

NCAA Div. I Season Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 01:18:33 +0000

Always an exciting week with all levels of college baseball going. Happy opening week of Div. I Baseball. Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our Div. I preview. I give our sports writers a lot of credit for work they put in throughout the year to help grow the game of baseball. We start things off with Craig Cozart from Perfect Game. After that we check in with D1Baseball.com’s Aaron Fitt. Then we hand it over to Teddy Cahill from Baseball America and we finish it off with D1Baseball.com’s Mike Rooney. As a life-long fan of College Baseball, this is always an exciting time of the year for me. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

NCAA Div. II & III, NJCAA, & NAIA Season Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our Div. II, NJCAA, Div. III and NAIA preview. Wayne Cavadi from NCAA.com kicks us off with the Div. II preview. After that we send it over to Troy Sutherland from Perfect Game and Noah Sharp from the Juco Ball Blog to cover all things junior college baseball. Then we hand it over to Jim Dixon from D3Baseball.com, who has been covering Div. III baseball since 1994 to talk all things Div III. Finally, we finish up with Robby Gutierrez from NAIA Ball, who has been with the ABCA college baseball preview since we started this 4 years ago. This is the best time of the year with season’s already kicking off and season’s getting ready to start. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Noah Junis - Triple A Bullpen Coach, Boston Red Sox

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 10:05:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is current Red Sox Triple A bullpen coach and P3 throwing trainer, Noah Junis. Junis is a Rock Falls, Illinois native having played for Illinois coaching legend Donnie Chappell. Junis got his coaching start at Illinois Central College with another Illinois coaching great Bret Kelley. After ICC, Junis headed to Tempe, Arizona to work at Push Performance where he started to dive into throwing performance techniques. Junis then head to St. Louis to work for P3. Junis has a number of MLB pitchers that he has worked with on his resume including his brother Jake, Logan Webb, Shelby Miller, Sean Doolittle, Sam Coonrod, John Means and Jackson Rutledge. Junis recently was hired by the Boston Red Sox to serve as their Triple A bullpen coach in Worcester. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Omar Johnson - Head Coach, Jackson State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is Jackson State head coach, Omar Johnson.

Since taking over the helm of the program prior to the 2007 season, Johnson has led JSU baseball to a winning season every year. He eclipsed the 500-win mark in 2022 and his team's have averaged 32 wins per season while capturing seven Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Eastern Division titles and two SWAC Championships.

Johnson is a huge proponent of the student portion of student-athlete and the Tigers' program has posted a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or better in every season. Prior to coaching at Jackson State, Johnson coached at the University of North Alabama for four years, where he led the 1999 team to its first ever NCAA Div. II College World Series.

Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com.

Henry Bergmann - Strength & Conditioning Coach, University of Maryland

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is University of Maryland strength and conditioning coach, Henry Bergmann. Bergmann is a strength and conditioning coach at the University of Maryland where he oversees all aspects of sports performance for the baseball team and track & field throwers. Before arriving in College Park, he spent two years at Towson University working with the women's basketball, baseball, and men's & women's golf teams. Prior to that, Bergmann was a graduate assistant sports performance coach at the University of Wyoming and also spent time at San Diego State University and the University of Minnesota working with their olympic sports teams. Originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Bergmann received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. He is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, United States Weightlifting, and U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Jessica Hylander - Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Nutrition, TCU

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 10:05:00 +0000

As we like to do with the ABCA Podcast in January, we are diving into all things nutrition with TCU Assistant AD for Sports Nutrition, Jessica Hylander. Hylander started her role as the Assistanat Director of Sports Nutrition at TCU in 2021. Prior to her fulltime position at TCU, she was a Sports Nutrition Graduate Assistant from 2019-2021. Hylander is a Registered Dietician (RD) through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) and is a licensed dietitian (LD) in the state of Texas. Hylander’s primary responsibility is assisting in the caring for the nutrition needs of all TCU’s student-athletes primarily through team education and individual counseling. Hylander is passionate about mentoring, mental health, and using up to date, evidence-based research and practices to improve her athletes performance. Hylander received her bachelor’s of science in Dietics, with a minor in chemistry from Olivet Nazarene University. Hylander went on to do her dietetic internship and receive a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Dominican University. Most recently, Hylander received an additional master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership (M. Ed) from TCU. Prior to TCU, Hylander was involved in the Sports Nutrition Departments at both Northwestern University and the University of Florida. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Inside Pitch Extra: Alan Jaeger, Jaeger Sports

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Next on the ABCA Podcast is Jaeger Sports, Alan Jaeger. Jaeger is a longtime friend of the ABCA and one of the main reasons the podcast got started in 2016. We are starting something new in 2024 by providing an Inside Pitch Magazine preview episode with one of that edition’s contributors. Jaeger’s interview with Adam Revelette is titled “Put It in Neutral”. One page is not enough to go in depth on neutrality, so we dive deeper into the topic in this episode. Big shoutout to all of our contributors to the Convention edition and to Adam Revelette, Keith Madison and Jon Litchfield on all their hard work on Inside Pitch. Today officially kicks off the convention, so wishing everyone a great one! The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

ABCA Staff Convention Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Convention Travel Day! This episode is with the ABCA Staff to help you get ready for the convention. Safe travels to everyone coming to the Gaylord Texan January 4 to January 7 or following along with the livestream. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Captain Alexander Goetz - United States Marine Corps

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 10:37:00 +0000

As we keep rolling for convention week, this week’s ABCA Podcast guest is the Marines Captain Alexander Goetz. Goetz was born in Denver, CO where he graduated from Regis Jesuit High School. Goetz was a 4-year varsity letter winner in baseball. Goetz played baseball at Princeton University and was the 2011 Ivy League Closer of the Year. After graduation, Goetz reported to Officer Candidate School and completed the 10-week Officer Candidate Course and was then assigned the MOS of 1802, Tank Officer, at The Basic School where he received further training at Armor Basic Officer Leader Course in Fort Benning, GA. Goetz served as the Marine Officer Instructor of the Auburn-Tuskegee NROTC Consortium and has his Master’s Degree in Sports Coaching. Currently Goetz lives in Charlotte, NC and works with Tread Athletics. The Marines sponsored our barnstormers events this Fall. The Marines will also be at the convention sponsoring our Rookie Mentorship meeting, have an Expo Theater presentation and our available to talk on their on campus initiative in Booth #1029. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Jim Morris - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, University of Miami

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee former Miami head coach, Jim Morris. Morris retired in 2020. In his 25-season tenure at Miami, no program has qualified for the College World Series as much as Morris and the Hurricanes. Miami which qualified for the NCAA Tournament a college baseball record 44 consecutive years, made it to Omaha in 13 of Morris’ 25 seasons in Coral Gables. Morris set an NCAA record for guiding a program to the CWS in each of his first six seasons at Miami. A three-time national coach of the year and 2008 Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year, Morris won almost 1100 games at Miami and including his 12 years at Georgia Tech he is 10 wins shy of 1600 wins at the Div. I level. Overall, Morris was the head coach at the collegiate level for 41 seasons, spending the first four at Dekalb (Ga.) Community College from 1976-1979, and registered 1721 wins total. Morris was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Jim Wells - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, University of Alabama

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee former Alabama head coach, Jim Wells. Wells retired in 2009, in his 15 seasons at Alabama he finished as all-time winningest coach for the Crimson Tide, most SEC wins in that time period, three trips to Omaha and tied for most SEC tournament titles with Skip Bertman and Paul Maineiri. Wells led the Crimson Tide to back-to-back CWS appearances in 96’ and 97’. Wells got his start in coaching as a 7th grade baseball coach. Wells joined Skip Bertman’s LSU staff as a graduate assistant in 1987. Wells went back to his alma mater Northwestern State in 1990 as head coach. Wells first season at Northwestern State they posted 38 wins and had not had a winning season in 13 years. Wells did the same thing at Alabama in 1995 winning 42 games which was most wins for a first-year head coach since 1907. Success followed Wells to every spot he went to and finished with 817 wins in 21 seasons as a head coach. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Pat McQuaid - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, Nova High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee Nova High School head coach and athletic director, Pat McQuaid. McQuaid is a Nova grad and played collegiately at Catawba. He received his Masters from Appalachian State and was a graduate assistant football coach. McQuaid began coaching baseball at Nova in 1974. In 45 seasons at Nova McQuaid compiled 947 wins, 18 District Titles, 2 State Championships and 1 National Title. McQuaid spent time coaching football, cross country and took over athletic director duties in 2001. McQuaid is the baseball chairman for the Florida Athletic Coaches Association and a member of the FHSAA Baseball Advisory Committee. McQuaid is in the Florida High School Association and Broward County Hall of Fame. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Wayne Welton - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, Chelsea High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:13:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee Chelsea High School head coach and athletic director, Wayne Welton. Welton spent more than 30 years coaching the Bulldogs and became the Ann Arbor-area’s winningest coach with 767 wins, including a Class B state title in 1991. Welton also earned 13 Southeastern Conference titles and eight regional championships. The Chelsea native also served as the school’s athletic director for more than two decades and spent 10 years as the director of baseball at the University of Michigan. He worked for Rich Maloney and Erik Bakich during his tenure with the Wolverines. Helping them to a runner-up finish at the 2019 College World Series. Welton is still active with the MHSAA helping mentor first time athletic directors and was inducted into their hall of fame in 2003. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Danny Hall - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, Georgia Tech

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee Georgia Tech head coach, Danny Hall. Hall has coached 36 seasons as a head coach at Kent State and Georgia Tech, closing in on 1400 wins. Hall is the Yellowjackets all-time winningest coach and the all-time winningest Div. I head coach in the state of Georgia. Prior to his time at Kent State and Georgia Tech, Hall was an assistant coach at Michigan and Miami (OH). Hall’s first year at Georgia Tech (94’), he led the Yellowjackets to a runner-up finish at the College World Series. Hall has led the Yellowjackets to 3 College World Series appearances, 23 NCAA Regionals, 6 Super Regionals and 5 ACC tournament championships. Hall is one of the best player development coaches in the game having coached some of the best players of their generation in Barry Larkin, Jim Abbott, Chris Sabo, Nomar Garciaparra, Jason Varitek, Jay Payton, Mark Teixeira, Matt Wieters and Charlie Blackmon. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Jeff Willis - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, LSU Eunice

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee LSU Eunice head coach and Athletic Director, Jeff Willis. Willis is entering his 22nd season as skipper of the Bengals baseball team and 20th year as Athletic Director. LSU Eunice has won seven NJCAA National Championships, tying them for most championships in a sport by one school. Willis was inducted into the NJCAA Hall of Fame in 2023. In going into the ABCA Hall of Fame, Willis becomes the first NJCAA coach in the State of Louisiana to be inducted. He joins an illustrious group of Bayou State skippers Skip Bertman, Paul Mainieri, Roger Cador and Tony Robichaux who are also enshrined in the ABCA Hall of Fame. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Brian O'Connor - 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame, University of Virginia

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is 2024 ABCA Hall of Fame class inductee, Brian O’Connor. O’Connor is a five-time ACC Coach of the Year and three-time National Coach of the Year. Virginia was named the ACC Program of the Decade by D1Baseball.com. O’Connor is heading into his 21st season as head coach of the Cavaliers. In O’Connor’s tenure with the Cavaliers they have one National Championship in 2015, 6 College World Series appearances, 14 straight NCAA tournament appearances and 9 NCAA regional championships. O’Connor has 839 wins at UVA and his .704 winning percentage is the highest among active NCAA coaches. UVA’s program is built on great recruiting and development. 29 Cavaliers that have played for O’Connor and Kevin McMullan have made it to the big leagues. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Lee Banks - Tidewater Phillies & Grassfield High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we are joined by Tidewater Phillies and Grassfield High School’s Lee Banks. Banks has been a staple on the travel baseball scene for over 25 years. Banks’ initial travel squad was the Tidewater Mets then transitioned to the Tidewater Orioles. Over his career, Banks has had the opportunity to coach future big leaguers Michael Cuddyer, Jason Dubois, David Wright, BJ Upton, Justin Upton, Ryan Zimmerman and Mark Reynolds. Banks coaches travel and high school baseball part-time, he is a full-time consultant for Cox Media. Banks is an 89’ graduate of Norfolk State. In this episode we cover high school & travel baseball, tips for parents in the process, coaching elite players, the impact that Virginia coaches & scouts had on both of us and keeping coaching simple. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

2024 Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award Winner: Mark Brew - Head Coach, Lee University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is this year’s Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award winner Lee University head coach, Mark Brew. Following 10 seasons as an assistant coach for the Flames under ABCA Hall of Fame coach, Dave Altopp, Brew took over the Lee baseball program in 2007. Now in his 18th season as the program’s head coach, Brew has guided his teams to 671 wins. The Flames advanced to the NAIA World Series in each of Brew’s first seven seasons as head coach while reaching the 50-win mark each season. In 2008 Brew was named the NAIA National Coach of the Year after leading the Flames to a 63-win season and runner-up finish at the NAIA World Series. After transitioning to NCAA Div. II and the Gulf South Conference in 2014, Brew has led the Flames to back to back NCAA Tournament appearances in 2021 and 2022. A 30-year member of the ABCA, Brew currently serves on the ABCA’s College Playing Rules Committee and our NCAA Competition Committee. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. Support for this episode is brought to you by The Headset App. Are you looking for a simple solution for coach to catcher communication for this season that doesn’t require bulky hardware in the dugout? Traditional communication gear can be a headache to set up and carry from game to game. But what if there was a game-changing solution? Introducing The Headset App – your new MVP in communication for coaches and catchers. Enjoy crystal-clear, ultra-HD audio without the major league price tag. It’s compatible with any Bluetooth headset or earbuds. Say goodbye to tangled wires and extra hardware. Ready to step up to the plate? Download The Headset App for free today. Getting started is as easy as a home run trot: create your account, invite your team, and start calling pitches. The Headset App is ready for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Swing for the fences and download today to get a 5-day free trial. And for a limited time, use ABCA24, when you buy your pass for next season and save 10%. Find out more at theheadsetapp.com

Rusty Cagle - ABCA/ATEC Div. I High School Coach of the Year, Lewisburg High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/ATEC Div. I High School Coach of the Year Lewisburg head coach, Rusty Cagle. Lewisburg High School has won their first ever 6A State Championship and second overall in school history. The Patriots finished the season with a 29-8 record. Cagle is one of the few remaining staff members from the start of Lewisburg High School and teaches social studies in addition to his role as athletic director and baseball coach. Cagle started the program 17 years ago. The Patriots also won a 4A State Championship early in Cagle’s tenure at Lewisburg. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Lucas Jones - ABCA/ATEC Div. III Coach of the Year

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/ATEC Div. III Coach of the Year University of Lynchburg head coach, Lucas Jones. Jones is a Lynchburg alum so this was a special season for him bringing home Lynchburg’s first National Championship. Jones took over the Hornets program in 2017 from his head coaching position at Washington and Lee. Jones also had experience as a Div. I assistant coach with stops at VCU and George Mason. The 2023 Hornets squad had 48 wins and captured their 10th ODAC title, first regional, super-regional and National Championship. Jones announced this summer he was stepping away from the program to focus on his mental health. This is an open and honest conversation on what coaches go through on a daily basis. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Rachel Folden - Minor League Hitting Coordinator, Chicago Cubs

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We head back over to the player development side on this week’s ABCA Podcast with Cubs Minor League Hitting Coordinator, Rachel Folden. Folden was a standout player at Marshall being inducted into their Hall of Fame. After college, Folden spent time playing for the Chicago Bandits. Folden spent 1 season coaching at Valparaiso University and left coaching to focus on running her own training facility, Folden Fastpitch. Folden was hired by the Cubs in November 20’ as a minor league hitting coach and she has made an immediate impact on the organization working her way up to Minor League Hitting Coordinator. This is a wide-open conversation on developing hitters so get your pad and pen ready. Folden gives us great advice on coaching hitters in this episode. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tyler LaTorre - Head Coach, Westmont College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 10:53:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is ABCA/ATEC NAIA Coach of the Year Westmont College head coach, Tyler LaTorre. LaTorre guided Westmont to a 48-9 record and their first NAIA Championship in his inaugural season as head coach. Westmont is transitioning to Div. II this season, so it was a great way to cap off their final season of NAIA baseball. LaTorre had multiple coaching stops at San Jose State, San Francisco State and Sacramento State before taking over the Westmont program. LaTorre played collegiately at UC-Davis from 2002-2006 and professionally with the San Francisco Giants from 2006-2015. LaTorre was also a catcher for the Italian National team from 2012-2016, competing in the World Baseball Classic in 2013. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Scott Steltz - Head Coach, Chatham High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We head back over to the high school side with ABCA All America Committee member and ABCA/ATEC Div. III Coach of the Year, Scott Steltz. Steltz has led Chatham High School to back-to-back State Championships in New York. Steltz has over 25 years of teaching, coaching and administrative experience. Chatham High School is a great example of what happens when kids play baseball together all the way through their careers, a majority of Chatham players having played Little League together. Steltz is also on the youth and facility side giving lessons and coaching his own kids in youth baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jay Johnson - Head Coach, LSU

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA podcast is ABCA/ATEC Div. I Coach of the Year, LSU head coach, Jay Johnson. Johnson led LSU to this year’s National Championship and was his third appearance in Omaha with two previous at the University of Arizona. Johnson got his coaching start at Point Loma with ABCA Hall of Famer Dr. Carroll Land after he finished playing. Johnson continued his coaching journey in Southern California heading to San Diego to be the recruiting coordinator. Johnson put together top 25 recruiting classes while he was at San Diego including Golden Spikes award winner and future MLB star Kris Bryant. Johnson took over the Nevada program in 2014 being named Mountain West Coach of the Year in 2015. Johnson coached at Arizona from 2016-2021 taking the Wildcats to 2 World Series appearances and playing for the National Championship in 2016. Johnson was hired by LSU in the Fall of 2021. Johnson has a blueprint for recruiting and developing players and it is no different now that he is with the Tigers’ program. This episode is a deep dive into running an elite program, coaching elite players, recruiting and player development. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jabari Brown - Assistant Coach, Mizzou

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is Mizzou assistant coach, Jabari Brown. Brown is entering his first season with the Tigers program after ABCA 4th Vice President Kerrick Jackson took over this past Summer. Brown spent the last 2 years on Tim Corbin’s staff at Vanderbilt, becoming the first recipient of the Maggie Corbin Minority Baseball Apprenticeship Scholarship. Brown coached at Eastern Kentucky University and received his Master’s degree in Sports Administration, while he was in Richmond, KY. Brown got his coaching start at Claflin University where he was a 4 year starter. In this episode we cover player development, strength training, finding the right mentors, the Chicago White Sox ACE program, and how to handle coaching at a new program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Rob Valli - Head Coach, Rowan College at Gloucester County

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is ABCA/ATEC NJCAA Div. III Coach of the Year Rowan College head coach, Rob Valli. Valli guided Rowan to a 53-5 record and an NJCAA Championship this season. Valli has taken Rowan to 12 out of the last 13 NJCAA World Series. Valli is entering his 24th season of collegiate baseball with 20 years of experience as a head coach. Valli has over 650 wins averaging 35 wins per season. Rowan College and Coach Valli have a great track record of sending players onto the pro and 4 year level with 69 going into professional baseball and 7 big leaguers so this episode is a deep dive into player development. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Heath Gerstner - Head Coach, McPherson High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA/ATEC Div. II High School Coach of the Year McPherson head coach, Heath Gerstner. McPherson High School has won back to back Kansas 4A State Championships. The Bullpups finished the season with a 21-4 record and outscored their tournament opponents 23-5. Gerstner is on the ABCA High School All America Committee and is a great example of why all high school coaches should be ABCA members. This episode is a deep dive into running a championship high school program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Kevin Brooks - Head Coach, Angelo State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is ABCA/ATEC Div. II Coach of the Year Angelo State head coach, Kevin Brooks. Brooks has guided the Angelo State baseball program to six NCAA Div. II College World Series appearances and captured the program’s first National Championship this year. Brooks is the only head coach in ASU baseball history and has not had a losing season during his tenure. The Rams are the only Lone Star Conference team to make the College World Series. The Rams finished with a 56-9 record, setting the program and LSC record for wins in a season. Brooks is a graduate of Baylor University and had previous coaching stints at Incarnate Word, Texas A&M, UTSA and Hardin-Simmons University. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Gabe Ortiz - Head Coach, Kofa High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Kofa High School head coach, Gabe Ortiz. Ortiz was honored with the 2023 Central Valley Region Coach of the Year Award after Kofa went 11-1 in region play. Ortiz is also a USA Baseball veteran helping with the Socal/SW NTIS and helping with the USA Baseball trials in Cary, NC. Ortiz has been at the forefront of outfield development. Ortiz spoke at the 2022 ABCA Chicago convention. I would highly recommend going back and watching his talk on developing athletic outfielders if you haven’t seen it. Ortiz will also be speaking at our UC-San Diego Barnstormers this Fall on reimagining your warm-up. He has some great ideas on an actionable warm-up to get your players game ready. Ortiz gives us a bunch of great nuggets in this one so get your pad and pen ready. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Marty Smith - Head Coach, College of Central Florida

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA ATEC NJCAA Div. I Coach of the Year, Marty Smith. Smith has been the head coach at the College of Central Florida for 28 seasons with 865 career wins. The Patriots finished this season with 56 wins and winning their first World Series Championship in Grand Junction. Smith has a long history in the game and has been around some the best coaches we have had playing for Paul Mainieri at St. Thomas and coaching with Demie Mainieri at Miami Dade. Smith has a tremendous track record of producing high level 4 year college and professional baseball players. This is a great episode on being a lifelong learner. Smith has continued to push the College of Central Florida program forward by adjusting with the times. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Nate Trosky Part II

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

ABCA Podcast Part II with Nate Trosky. Trosky is one of the most forward-thinking infield coaches we have in the baseball community. Trosky has always had the ability to think outside the box and implement new ideas into his training. We had to end part I due to technical difficulties, but ended up being a huge positive because it allowed us to reset and go more in depth at a later date. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Nate Trosky Part I

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is one of the best infield minds we have in the game, Nate Trosky. There isn’t a place in the world that Trosky hasn’t touched coaching infielders. Trosky has been pushing the envelope in developing infielders for over 30 years. Trosky has contributed to over 10,000 players playing in college and over 500 in professional baseball including 20 plus first round MLB selections. This is a wide-open conversation on developing infielders. This is Part I of a two part series with Nate. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Div. III World Series Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The final on location episode takes us to Cedar Rapids, IA for the Div. III National Championship. We had a chance to sit down with Johns Hopkins’ Bob Babb, Baldwin Wallace’s Brian Harrison, Endicott’s Bryan Haley, Lacrosse’s Chris Schwartz, East Texas Baptist’s Jared Hood, Miscricordia’s Pete Engbert, Salisbury’s Troy Brohawn and Lynchburg’s Lucas Jones. Congrats to Lucas Jones and the Lynchburg program for capturing their first National Championship. Once again, thanks to all the coaches who took time to sit down with me. It is an extremely hectic time for coaches and can’t thank them enough for carving out time out of their busy schedules. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Elliott McCummings- Recruiting Coordinator, North Carolina A&T

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is North Carolina A&T recruiting coordinator, Elliott McCummings. McCummings has been an assistant for the Aggies since October 2021. Besides recruiting responsibilities, McCummings coaches the outfielders and hitters. Prior to A&T, McCummings spent time coaching at Austin Peay, Radford and Louisburg College. McCummings collegiate career started at Potomac State and finished at Jacksonville State. McCummings was a NJCAA second-team All-America freshman in 2013. In this episode we cover coaching outfielders, baserunning, hitting, the ABCA Diversity Committee, his coaching path and the mentors he has had along the way. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

NJCAA Div. II World Series Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Two more weeks of on location episodes. This week we head to Enid, OK for the NJCAA Divi. II Championship. Enid is another bucket list location for a baseball fan. The NJCAA and the town of Enid provide a phenomenal student-athlete experience. These interviews were going on during the tournament, so thanks to the coaches for sitting down with me. In this episode we will hear from Frederick’s Rodney Bennett, St. John’s Rivers’ Ross Jones, Lackawanna’s Mike McCarry, South Arkansas’ Cannon Lester, Lansing’ Steven Cutter, Southeastern’s Justin Schulte and Heartland’s Chris Razo. Congrats to Heartland for bringing home their first NJCAA Baseball Championship. My Mother, Candace, was enrollment director there for a long time so happy for her and the Hawks. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

NAIA World Series Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast is an on-location episode from Lewiston, ID for the NAIA World Series. It was my first time in Lewiston and was impressed with how the event was run. The ABCA and Lewiston host a youth clinic the night before the tournament starts and had 600 kids this year. Lewis Clark State has hosted the National Tournament for 21 years. In this episode we will hear from Indiana Wesleyan’s Rich Benjamin, Taylor’s Kyle Gould, Bellevue’s Duane Monlux, Georgia Gwinnett’s Jeremy Sheetinger, Cumberlands Brad Shelton, Southeastern’s Adrian Dinkel, MidAmerica Nazarene’s Ryan Thompson, Lewis Clark’s Jake Taylor, and Westmont’s Tyler LaTorre. Congrats to Westmont for winning their first NAIA Championship. As always, I appreciate the coaches for taking time out of their schedules to sit down with me. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

David Klein - Founder, Legends Camp & Speedball

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We head over to youth baseball on this week’s ABCA Podcast. David Klein is the founder of Menlo Parks Legends Baseball and Speedball. Klein has been recognized by the Positive Coaching Alliance for his work with youth baseball. Klein founded Legends Camp in 2008. Klein is a self-described “Experience Designer & Holistic Coach”. Klein finished his college baseball career at UC-Santa Barbara and had a chance to play on the Jewish National Team for ABCA Hall of Famer, Jerry Weinstein. In this episode we cover holistic coaching, fixes for youth baseball, speedball, coaching this generation of kids and how to create a fun environment for players. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Kris Jenkins - Owner & Director, K25 and Top Tier West

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is K25 and Top Tier West Owner & Director, Kris Jenkins. Jenkins has been coaching & training 6 year olds up to collegiate athletes for the last 16 years. The K25 facility is located in Aurora, west of Chicago where Jenkins grew up. Jenkins got his start coaching at Plainfield South High School. Jenkins was a tremendous 3 sport athlete at West Aurora High School and played collegiately at Triton and Illinois State University. Jenkins has great feel for blending new technology into coaching this generations’ baseball and softball players. You can watch his Barnstormers talk he gave on hitting on the website. In this episode we cover training, certifications, coaching hitters and differences between running a facility & coaching on the field. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Shon Plack & Mike Arbuckle

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

We have two very special guests on this week’s ABCA Podcast with the Kansas City Royals’ Shon Plack and Mike Arbuckle. Plack is the Manager of Sport Development for the Royals. Arbuckle is the Senior Advisor to the GM for Scouting and Player Development. Both have a wealth of experience in the game. Plack previously worked for PBR, Building Champions and coached at Avila. Arbuckle has worked at every level of professional baseball as a scout, getting his start in scouting with the Phillies and Braves. Arbuckle was the Assistant GM for the Phillies before coming over to the Royals. The Kansas City Royals have been at the forefront of community involvement in youth baseball and softball. Their Urban Youth Academy is a phenomenal facility in the heart of Kansas City. The Royals recently started “The Royals Amateur Development System”, R.A.D.S. which has a website full of information for youth baseball development. The Royals are in partnerships with 15 youth leagues in the metro Kansas City area in both baseball and softball. The link to the website is royals.mobilecoach.org. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

The Walking Tall Movement

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week are the Walking Tall Movement founders Dr. Vanetta LaRosa, Todd Blyleven and Chris Maliszewski. The Walking Tall Movement was born out of tragic events with Todd being involved in the Las Vegas shooting and Chris being involved in the Highland Park shooting. Their mission statement is “To inspire humanity to Walk Tall for those suffering with their mental health until they can Walk Tall on their own”. LaRosa is the founder of Helping Hands Children Services and received her Doctorate from SIU in Educational Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis. Blyleven is the founder of the Scout Hub and was on the podcast with me in the Summer of 22’. Maliszewski played for and coached with me at the University of Iowa and now runs the Highland Park park district. My hope with this episode is to make it okay for people to open up and be vulnerable about their struggles during life’s journey. This is an open and honest conversation with the four of us. I hope that it helps someone out there be okay with reaching out when you are struggling or need help. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Chris Hanks, Head Coach, Colorado Mesa

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Colorada Mesa head coach, Chris Hanks. Hanks is in his 25th season with the Mavericks winning over 1000 games. He has averaged 40 wins a season. Hanks is a 24-year continuous member of the ABCA and has been an active committee member for the organization as Div. II Committee Chair. Hanks is also a member of the Competition, Organization and Rules Committees. Hanks has the Mavericks rolling this season with a 48-9 record and a 20 game winning streak heading into Super Regional play against Angelo State (May 26-27). Hanks was a standout player at the College of Southern Idaho being name to the NJCAA Golden Anniversary Team. The NJCAA honored 20 players and 2 coaches from the last 50 years. Hanks is an avid reader, so we dive into his favorite leadership books. We also cover leadership training, hitting development, what he has learned over his playing and coaching career and how he has changed his players workload late in the season to handle post season play. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dave Pishkur, Head Coach, Andrean High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Andrean High School head coach, Dave Pishkur. Pishkur started teaching at Andrean in 1977. Since then, he has built a powerhouse program in Northern Indiana. Pishkur has over 1000 wins and is now tied with Lafayette Central Catholic and ABCA member Tim Bordenet with 8 Indiana State Championships. Pishkur is a great example of persistence as it took him 25 years to win his first state championship. Pishkur has also found a way to stay current in his coaching with Andrean baseball having HitTrax, KVest and IPitch. In this episode we cover how to win a championship, developing high school athletes, blending new and old coaching techniques and Andrean baseball’s pillars for their program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Roberto Mercado, High A Manager, Aberdeen Iron Birds

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 May 2023 09:45:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast this week is Aberdeen Iron Birds manager, Roberto Mercado. Mercado is entering his second season as manager with the Orioles High A affiliate. Mercado spent 19 seasons coaching at New Britain High School and five seasons in the Cape Cod League with the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox with ABCA Hall of Famer Scott Pickler. In this episode we cover the transition from coaching amateur to professional baseball, what he learned coaching high school and elite college players, outfield play, his role as manager, the outfield zoom chat we started during COVID and what he got out of presenting at the 2023 ABCA convention in Nashville. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tyson Blaser, Catching Coordinator, Boston Red Sox

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Boston Red Sox catching coordinator, Tyson Blaser. Blaser is entering his first season with the Red Sox after 6 years working in the Yankees organization. Blaser signed a free agent contract with the Yankees out of the University of Iowa in 2011. Blaser spent 4 seasons playing in the Yankees organization. After he was released, Blaser started coaching and teaching at United Township High School in the Quad Cities. Blaser still gives lessons to youth and high school players in the offseason. This is a special episode for me since Tyson played for me at the University of Iowa from 2007-2011. In this episode we cover tips on getting a job in pro ball, all ages catching development, how to handle players with injuries and how to make things work in pro ball with your family. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Kevin Schnall, Associate Head Coach, Coastal Carolina

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

On this week’s ABCA Podcast we check in with Coastal Carolina Associate Head Coach, Kevin Schnall. Schnall’s fingerprints are all over the Chanticleers program as a player and 20 years as an assistant coach. In Schnall’s 20 seasons, the Chanticleers have 15 NCAA Div. I Regional appearances, 35 All-Americans, top 5 winning percentage in Div. I, 13 conference tournament championships and the 2016 Div. I National Championship. Schnall spent 3 seasons (2013-15) at Central Florida. In this episode we cover recruiting and player development. I have a lot of respect for Coach Schnall and what he has done over the course of his career, so was excited to have him on. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Luke Town, Owner, Advanced Baseball Academy

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 11:29:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Advanced Baseball Academy owner and ABCA Travel Committee member, Luke Town. Town has been working with baseball and softball players for 33 years. Town is also an NFCA member. Town has been studying biomechanics since 2000. Advanced Baseball Academy trains baseball and softball players from ages 8 up through professional. They have over 400 athletes in their organization. Advanced Baseball Academy implements suicide and bully prevention training as soon as athletes join the organization. This is an impactful episode on how to introduce this type of training with your organization. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jennifer Hammond, Assistant Coach, Thomas Jefferson HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us on this week’s ABCA Podcast is Thomas Jefferson High School, Alexandria Aces, EWBC and DC Girls Baseball coach, Jennifer Hammond. Hammond also works for the Washington Nationals on the game day entertainment side. Hammond spent 5 seasons at Falls Church High School serving as Associate Head Coach of the JV Baseball Team and Varsity Assistant Coach. In this episode we cover catching, in game tips, coaching journey and differences in coaching youth, high school and college players. This is our second installment of our monthly diversity spotlight episodes. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Matt Ittner, Head Coach, Cox High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Cox High School head coach, Matt Ittner. Ittner is in his sixth season at the helm of the Cox baseball program. Ittner is a 2008 graduate of Cox High School, where he was a 3-year varsity letterman for the baseball team. Ittner played baseball at College of Albermarle and Virginia Wesleyan. Ittner spent time at Salem High School and JV head coach at Cox. The 2021 Cox baseball team won the 5A State Championship. Get your pad and pen ready because Coach Ittner has a wealth of information and resources on program building. In this episode we cover the Iron Falcon Challenge, player development, game tips, how to manage your staff and how Cox baseball uses their military area to develop team building. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Nunzio Signore, Owner, RPP

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA podcast we head back into the training world with Rockland Peak Performance owner, Nunzio Signore. Rockland Peak Performance is a high-performance indoor training facility located in north New Jersey. RPP trains professional and amateur baseball players. Signore is the author of Velocity Baseball Training and Pitchers Arm Care. Signore has written articles for the ABCA’s Inside Pitch Magazine and has spoken at many of the larger baseball clinics in the US. Signore also has served as an adjunct professor at St. Thomas Aquinas College, teaching theories and applications of strength and conditioning. In addition, he is a lecturer at Springfield College, SUNY Cortland, and Penn State. In this episode we cover VBT, remote training, long term athlete development and new & old training protocols. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Skylar Meade, Head Coach, Troy University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Troy University head coach, Skylar Meade. Meade is heading into his second season as head coach of the Trojans. Meade led Troy to a 32-win season and an appearance in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament semifinals last year. Meade spent 14 years as an assistant coach with stops at South Carolina, Michigan State, Middle Tennessee State and Eastern Illinois. Meade played collegiately at Louisville and led the Cardinals to a CWS appearance his senior season in 07’. Meade is highly regarded in the baseball industry as an elite pitching coach and recruiter. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Julius McDougal, Associate Head Coach, Georgetown University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

I want to thank everyone for listening to the ABCA Podcast. This is my 200th episode since taking over. I am so thankful for everyone that listens in every week. I appreciate when people reach out about what is speaking to them with the episodes. As always, I hope I am asking the right questions for you all. The ABCA Podcast was nominated for the Sports Podcast Awards again this year. If you want to vote for us, head over to sportspodcastgroup.com and put a vote in for the ABCA Podcast. We are starting monthly minority spotlight episodes. Kicking us off is Georgetown University Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator, Julius McDougal. McDougal was an integral part of the Hoyas’ historic 2022 season breaking program records for wins, home runs, total bases and end of season RPI. McDougal has had success at every stop of the way helping turn around Eastern Kentucky with back to back 30 win seasons in 18’ & 19’. Prior to Eastern Kentucky, McDougal, was an assistant and head coach at Stillman College. He got his coaching start as an assistant at Kentucky State University in 14’. This is a great episode on developing a winning culture, player development and coaching hitters. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Bryan Ruby, Cofounder, Proud To Be In Baseball

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast guest is current professional baseball player, Nashville artist and Proud To Be In Baseball cofounder, Bryan Ruby. Ruby played high school baseball for his father in Pennsylvania and collegiately at Vassar College. Ruby is currently playing for the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes in Oregon. In the offseason he works in Nashville writing songs for country music. Heading into his senior season at Vassar, Ruby decided to come out to his coaches and teammates. Since then he has been an advocate for LGBTQ baseball players. Proud To Be In Baseball had a booth at the Nashville convention this year. Ruby has been coming to the ABCA convention with his father since he was a kid. This episode is an open and honest conversation about how inclusion can help the players that you coach. Ruby is a good example of how numbers on the field improve when players feel comfortable and seen. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Bill Cilento, Associate Head Coach, Wake Forest University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

On this week’s ABCA Podcast we check in with Wake Forest Associate Head Coach, Bill Cilento. Cilento is in his 14th season with the Demon Deacons working primarily with hitters and infielders. He has a great track record of developing players with 65 drafts and 7 big leaguers. Wake Forest has had 19 hitters earn all-ACC honors the last five seasons, including National Player of the Year and first round pick Will Craig. Wake Forest has ranked in the top 50 nationally in home runs in six of the past seven seasons, also ranking among the nation’s leaders in batting average, doubles, walks, slugging and on-base percentage every season. The Deacs made the NCAA tournament in 2022 after posting the program’s seventh 40-win season. The 2022 team also broke school records for home runs, walks, RBIs, runs scored, runs per game and slugging percentage. Cilento played collegiately and coached at Siena. He also spent time coaching at New Orleans and Brown. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Scott Emerson, MLB Pitching Coach, Oakland Athletics

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Staying on the MLB side with this week’s ABCA Podcast. We check in with Oakland A’s Major League pitching coach, Scott Emerson. Emerson grew up in Phoenix and was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 1990 out of Shadow Mountain High School and by the Baltimore Orioles in 1991 out of Scottsdale Community College. Emerson pitched in the minor leagues from 1992 to 1997. In 2000 Emerson joined the Pittsburgh Pirates Organization as Pitching Coach of their Gulf Coast League. Emerson joined the Athletics’ Organization in 2001. Emerson worked his way up through the minor leagues through 2014 and ended as the Athletics Minor League Pitching Coordinator. After the 2014 season Emerson was named the Athletics major league bullpen coach. Emerson was promoted to pitching coach on June 15, 2017. We cover all things pitching in this one. Emerson has a great perspective on how to blend the old with the new. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jason Bell, Assistant Director of Player Development, Houston Astros

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Houston Astros Assistant Director of Player Development and Minor League Coordinator, Jason Bell. Bell started his career path on the college side as the Director of Baseball Operations at Ohio University in 2015. From there Bell went on to be the pitching coach at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. In 2017 Bell was hired by the Houston Astros as the development coach for Quad Cities in 2017. In 2019 Bell was hired as the Astros fundamentals coordinator. That year the Astros led all 30 organizations with an overall fielding percentage of .975. With Major League pitchers and catchers reporting for Spring Training, we are jumping into a couple professional baseball episodes. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Div. I Baseball Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Best time of the year with every level of college baseball going now. Happy opening week of Div. I Baseball. Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our Div. I preview. We have an intelligent and entertaining line up of college baseball writers in this episode. New to this year’s Div. I preview is former college coach, Craig Cozart from Perfect Game. Then we hand it over to Teddy Cahill from Baseball America and we finish it off with D1Baseball’s Mike Rooney, Aaron Fitt & Kendall Rogers. As a life-long fan of College Baseball, this is always an exciting time of the year for me. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Small College Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 20:35:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our NAIA, Junior College, Div. III and Div. II preview. Robby Gutierrez from NAIA Ball leads us off. After that we kick it over to Brian Sakowski from Perfect Game and Noah Sharp from the Juco Ball Blog to cover all things junior college baseball. Then we hand it over to Jordan Shusterman and Jake Mintz from Cespedes Family BBQ fame and the Podcast About Division III Baseball to talk all things Div III. Finally, we finish up with Wayne Cavadi, Wayne covers all things Div II for NCAA.com. This is the best time of the year with season’s already kicking off and season’s getting ready to start. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Angie Asche, CEO & Owner, Eleat Nutrition

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Our final January episode on the “Foundations for Optimal Living” is with Eleat Nutrition CEO and Owner, Angie Asche. Asche got her Bachelors of Science degrees in both Dietetics and Exercise Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Asche went onto graduate school at Saint Louis University and earned her Registered Dietician title and a Masters of Science Degree in Nutrition & Physical Performance. Asche founded Eleat Nutrition in June 2014. She has worked with hundgreds of high school, college and professional athletes nationwide in MLB, NFL and NHL. We cover all things nutrition and supplements in this one to hopefully springboard you into a great season. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Al Sandoval, Texas Rangers & PBSCCS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The third Foundation for Optimal Living is exercise & movement. Today we check in with Texas Rangers Assistant Strength & Conditioning coach, Al Sandoval. Sandoval has over 15 years of experience working at the professional level with the Rangers, Angels and Rockies. Sandoval got his start in strength and conditioning working with the CSU-Pueblo baseball program. Sandoval is a certified & registered NSCA Strength and Conditioning Coach. Sandoval has been an integral part of the Professional Baseball Strength & Conditioning Coaches Society. You can dive into resources on their website at baseballstrength.org. I love his philosophy of strength and conditioning in professional baseball is to help athletes develop as much strength as possible then teach them to use that strength to put force into the ground in a quick, timely manner. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dr. Erik Korem, CEO AIM7

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 16:33:00 +0000

Continuing our Foundations for Optimal Living theme for this month on the ABCA Podcast is CEO and Founder of AIM7, Dr. Erik Korem. Erik played football at Texas A&M. He covered a lot of ground in the football world after graduating. He has traveled all over the world studying elite performance. He was in the NFL for 15 years as Sports Scientist and High-Performance Director. He was at William & Mary for 2 years as Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Performance. And he also participated in the Presidential Leadership Scholars Program. This Episode is a deep dive into Sleep and High Performance. You can directly link mental and physical health issues to lack of sleep. Conversely, you can also link high performance to quality sleep. This was also Dr. Korem’s first experience with the ABCA Convention, so we get his thoughts on how everything went. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Brandon Guyer - Major League Mindset

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Our goal every year with the January episodes has been to shine a light on the foundations of optimal living. Hopefully, these episodes give you some tips you can implement with yourself personally or with your team. Next up on the ABCA podcast is Major League Mindset’s, Brandon Guyer. Guyer was drafted and signed by the Chicago Cubs coming out of the University of Virginia in 2010. Guyer made his major league debut in 2011 with the Tampa Bay Rays. Guyer retired from baseball July 20’. Because peak performance helped Guyer so much as a player, getting into the profession was always in the back of his mind. Guyer had the opportunity to play for Joe Maddon and work with Ken Ravizza with the Tampa Bay Rays. Guyer lso sights Heads Up Baseball as helping him in high school. In this episode we cover peak performance, mental health and fail forward moments. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

79th ABCA Convention - 2023 Nashville Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

The ABCA Convention and the City of Nashville have a long history together. If you talk to anyone who has been to the ABCA convention and you ask them a favorite convention story, Nashville will probably come up at some point. Today’s episode covers everything you need to know about the convention. Our goal every year is to make this a wonderful experience for our attendees, guests, sponsors and exbibitors. I hope you enjoy and we look forward to seeing everyone at the 79th ABCA convention on January 5th. Thanks again for your support and trust. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jeff Messer, 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Finishing up our 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame inductee podcasts is Slippery Rock head coach, Jeff Messer. Messer is heading into his 38th season at Slippery Rock University. Messer enters the 2023 season as the all-time winningest coach in Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference history and his 1072 career victories put him 12th in Div. II baseball. Messer has led Slippery Rock to 13 NCAA Regionals and 4 College World Series appearances. Messer has done a tremendous job building consistency in the program with only three losing seasons in 37 years with only one scholarship. Messer has been instrumental to the ABCA with his work as the Div. II Committee Chair and as a Board Member. This is a great way to kick off convention week. We will have our convention preview with the ABCA Staff coming up tomorrow. Thanks again to everyone that has made this a record year for the ABCA. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

John Lowery, 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Another titan in the game joins us this week on the ABCA Podcast with Jefferson High School head coach, John Lowery. Lowery is a well-deserved inductee in the 2023 Hall of Fame class. Lowery is heading into his 52nd season at Jefferson High School. Lowery has amassed 1392 wins, 12 West Virginia State Championships and 26 state tournament appearances. Lowery got an opportunity to coach all three of his sons in high school and all three went on to play college baseball. In this episode we discuss practice planning, holding players accountable, fundraising, history of West Virginia baseball players and we even had an opportunity to get some insight from his wife Vicky in this one. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jerry Dawson, 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is 2023 Hall of Fame inductee, Jerry Dawson. Dawson spent 37 seasons at Chaparral High School winning 773 games and 8 State Championships. Chaparral High School produced 7 big leaguers including Ike Davis, Paul Konerko and Brian Bannister. Dawson left Chaparral as the all-time winningest coach in the State of Arizona. In 2004 Dawson was honored with the ABCA/Diamond Sports National High School Coach of the Year Award. Dawson moved on to be the pitching coach at Yavapaii in 2010 and is currently the pitching coach at Scottsdale Community College. Dawson took his blueprint of developing players to Yavapaii. In Dawson’s 12 years at Yavapaii, they produced big leaguers Kenny Giles, Chance Adams and Jojo Romero. In this episode you will have an opportunity to see why Coach Dawson is still coaching at a high level. We get right into pitching development and player relationships. You will get an inside look at how important it is for coaches to develop a relationship with their players. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dave Demarest, 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us on the ABCA Podcast is 2023 Hall of Fame inductee, Dave Demarest. Demarest spent 34 seasons as head coach at La Quinta High School and is still the winningest coach in Orange County with 753 wins. He led La Quinta to 15 consecutive league championships from 1993-2007 and 3 CIF Championships. La Quinta has a great history of producing MLB players. Demarest coached future big leaguers Gerald Laird, Brandon Laird, Bobby Crosby, Ian Kennedy, Cole Garner, Jeff Heathcott and Ian Stewart. Demarest retired his position from teaching and head coach at La Quinta in 2007 but has stayed active coaching since. Demarest continues to give back to the game helping college, high school and youth teams in Southern California. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tim Saunders, 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000

With Covid pushing our 2020 ABCA convention to a virtual, we felt like it would be beneficial to interview our Hall of Fame inductees for that year. We have continued that tradition since. At the Hall of Fame banquet, our inductees only get 3 to 5 minutes to talk so these podcasts allow them to tell their stories and get a few more thank-you’s in before the ABCA convention. These have been some of my favorite interviews the last 3 years. I encourage you to go back and listen to past Hall of Fame interviews if you haven’t. I hope to see all of you at this year’s ABCA convention in Nashville. It truly is a celebration of the coaching community. We continue our 2023 ABCA Hall of Fame inductee podcasts with former Dublin Coffman and current Dublin Jerome head coach, Tim Saunders. Saunders will be our first OHSAA coach going into the ABCA Hall of Fame. Saunders retired from coaching Dublin Coffman after the Spring of 2020 after 33 seasons as head coach and 40 seasons coaching overall. He finished his career with 589 wins and .600 winning percentage. The Shamrocks had 10 league titles, five district championships, two regional titles and won the 2001 state championship. Saunders is an Ohio native and got his coaching start as an assistant at Portsmouth. Saunders took over the Meggs High School program in 1981 and spent time on Bob Morgan’s staff at IU before taking over the Dublin Coffman program in 1988. Saunders is a 38 year continuous lifetime member of the ABCA. He was the former ABCA High School Divisional Chair and past President of the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the NHSBCA. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/rapsodo-savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Rich Maloney, 2023 Dave Keiltiz Ethics in Coaching Award

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA podcast is our 2023 Dave Keiltiz Ethics in Coaching Award winner, Ball State head coach, Rich Maloney. Maloney has been a Div. I head coach for 27 seasons with stops at Ball State twice and Michigan. In 2022 he eclipsed the 900-win mark ranking him 16th among active Div. I coaches. Maloney is the winningest baseball coach in Ball State history. In his 10 seasons at Michigan, Maloney led the Wolverines to 3 straight Big Ten Championships and 4 straight NCAA regional appearances from 2005-2008. In his 17 seasons at Ball State, the Cardinals have 5 MAC Regular Season and 6 MAC West Division Titles. Maloney has been known for player development over the course of his career. He has coached 65 draft picks including 6 first rounders. Maloney is a Western Michigan alum, playing for the legendary Fred Decker. Maloney played 6 seasons of professional baseball before starting his coaching career with Coach Decker at Western Michigan. Maloney was the 2018 ABCA President, served 6 years as the ABCA Div. I Chair and is on our Board of Directors. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Eric Kibler, 2023 Dave Keilitz Ethics Award & ABCA Hall of Fame

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

We are honoring our 2023 award winners heading into the Nashville convention. Next up on the ABCA podcast is former Horizon High School head coach, Eric Kibler. Coach Kibler is being honored with the Dave Keilitz Ethics Award and also going into the ABCA Hall of Fame this year. In 1980, Kibler started the baseball program at Horizon High School. Kibler shaped the landscape of high school and youth baseball in the State of Arizona and nationally with a 2007 National Championship, 6 5A State Championships, 3 State Runner-ups, 7 National Invitational Championships and 881 career wins which is the most wins in Arizona history. Kibler has an illustrious career in the baseball industry. Over the last 4 decades he has racked up many honors including being inducted into the Arizona Baseball Coaches and the National High School Hall of Fame. He has been an integral part of USA Baseball and is a member of the ABCA Youth Committee. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo. The industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Bob Mitcheltree, ABCA Div. II Assistant Coach of the Year, Slippery Rock

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA podcast we sit down with ABCA Div. II Assistant Coach of the Year, Bob Mitcheltree. The 2022 season marked Mitcheltree’s 20th year overall as an assistant coach on Jeff Messer’s Slippery Rock staff. Slippery Rock had one of their most successful seasons going 33-18 and competed in the NCAA tournament. Mitcheltree has also been an assistant for Wilmington High School’s football program for over 40 years. He has helped the Greyhounds to state championships and several state runner-up honors as well as a multitude of WPIAL and District 10 titles. His goal is to make it 50 years coaching baseball and football. Mitcheltree played collegiately at Youngstown State University and he has scouted professionally for the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Mets and San Diego Padres. His success has already been recognized with inductions into the Lawrence County Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 and the North County Baseball League Hall of Fame in 2011. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo.
Rapsodo, the industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

ABCA On the Road - Nate Yeskie, Associate Head Coach, Texas A&M

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

We have a special edition of the ABCA Podcast this week on the road with Texas A&M Associate Head Coach, Nate Yeskie, during the Aggies pre-game. This is a must listen with one of the best pitching & baseball minds in the game. Yeskie led the Aggies to the 2022 College World Series in his first season in College Station. This was back to back trips for Yeskie in Omaha with Arizona competing in the 2021 College World Series. Yeskie is no stranger to Omaha as Oregon State’s pitching coach for 11 seasons and a 2018 National Championship. Yeskie is one of the premiere coaches we have in the game, so I am excited for everyone to listen in to this pre-game conversation. This episode is sponsored by our friends at Rapsodo.
Rapsodo, the industry leader in baseball player development technology, has a special offer on their HITTING & PITCHING 2.0 units. Go to Rapsodo.com/savings and get up to a $1,000 off! Trusted by the best in baseball, Rapsodo is used by all 30 MLB teams, 100% of D1 Champions since 2010, and 100% of the Top 100 Prospects in this year’s MLB draft. Scott Brown, Vanderbilt’s pitching coach and associate head coach has this to say about Rapsodo, “everyone involved in teaching pitchers this day and age could benefit from owning Rapsodo and using it for immediate feedback to educate their pitchers.” Again, save up to $1,000 when you decide to train and build champions with Rapsodo. Visit Rapsodo.com/savings and take advantage of this great offer. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Matt Saliba, NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year, Webber International University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year, Matt Saliba. The Webber International University recruiting coordinator guided the Warriors program to a 43-22 record and their first appearance at the NAIA World Series. Saliba is a Florida native attending Winter Haven High School where he was Polk County Player of the Year his senior season, playing for his Father. Saliba attended Daytona State College for two seasons, Valdosta State for a year and transferred back home to Webber for his senior season. Saliba led Webber to their first regional bid in school history and was named ABCA/Rawlings NAIA gold glove second baseman his senior season. After his playing career, former Webber head coach and current AD, Brad Niethammer, asked Saliba to join his staff as student-assistant. Saliba has worked his way up and now wears many hats as recruiting coordinator & head JV coach. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Brad Shelton, High School Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year, Tonganoxie HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the podcast is ABCA Div. III High School Assistant Coach of the Year, Tonganoxie’s Brad Shelton. Shelton has 20+ years of experience as a coach and special education teacher. Tonganoxie High School had their best season in school history with a 20-4 record and losing to McPherson in the Kansas High School State Championship. In this episode we discuss what has kept Coach Shelton going in the special education & coaching field all these years, challenges & positives of being at a small school, traits of successful programs and what he has learned along the way coaching basketball & baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tom DeAngelis, Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year, Baldwin-Wallace

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA podcast is Div. III Assistant Coach of the Year, Baldwin-Wallace’s Tom DeAngelis. Baldwin-Wallace had a phenomenal season going 32-11 and ended the year at the Div. III College World Series in Cedar Rapids, IA. DeAngelis finished his playing career at Seton Hill in 2011. He got his coaching start at Seton Hill and has been an assistant at Baldwin-Wallace since 2015. Success has followed Coach DeAngelis at every stop along the way. Offense and player development has been a staple of the Baldwin-Wallace program. In this episode we do a deep dive into all things that go into assisting student-athlete development. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Drew Briese, USA Baseball & Centre College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Keeping with the USA Baseball theme, this week’s ABCA Podcast is with 15U National Team manager and Centre College head coach, Drew Briese. Briese led the 15U National team to a World Cup Championship. Team USA had a great tournament going 8-1 and beating Cuba in back to back games to win the championship. Briese brings a unique perspective coaching the 15u team coming from the college side. He has worked with USA Baseball since 2013 so he has a great understanding of the process of developing high school players into World Champions. Briese has been the head coach at his alma matre, Centre College since 2016. He was also on Jan Weisberg’s staff at Birmingham Southern, building them into a perennial Div. III powerhouse. This is another great episode on player development and building championship players. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

RJ Farrell, USA Baseball & Orange Lutheran

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is 12U National Team Manager, Orange Lutheran associate head coach and Coastal Empire Baseball owner, RJ Farrell. Coach Farrell had an exciting summer leading the USA team to a World Cup Championship. Team USA had a great tournament going 8-0. He has been a part of multiple championship teams with USA Baseball. Coach Farrell is also a part of one of the best high school programs in the country at Orange Lutheran. In this episode we cover the 12U National Team championship run, the process for selecting the national team, how he and Eric Borba develop a championship culture at Orange Lutheran, and all things player development. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Aaron Debord, Head Coach Stow-Munroe & GM Ohio Longhorns

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us next on the ABCA Podcast is Stow-Munroe head coach and Ohio Longhorns GM, Aaron Debord. Debord is another great example of someone who is positively affecting every level of baseball in their community. He has his footprint on youth, travel and high school baseball in Northeast Ohio. Debord has been the GM of the Ohio Longhorns since 2008 and head baseball coach at Stow-Munroe since 2015. He has worked his way up from every level of high school baseball coaching at Woodridge, Nordonia and Akron-Firestone high schools previously. This episode is on how to positively affect the baseball community in your area. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Matt Denny, Head Coach, Casteel HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Casteel High School head coach, Matt Denny. Casteel High School opened in 2016 and is on the Southeast side of Phoenix, AZ. Denny took over the Casteel program in the Spring of 2020. Denny was named the 2021 5A Co-Coach and Region Coach of the Year in his first full season with the Casteel program. Prior to Casteel, Denny was at Mountain Pointe. We had a chance to watch Coach Denny work with his players at the Chandler-Gilbert Barnstormers last February. He took us through their batting practice routine which was extremely competitive and transfers over to the game. Coach Denny gives us actionable tips on student-athlete development and program building in this episode. We also get an inside look at Arizona’s unique high school baseball calendar. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Karl Nonemaker, Recruiting Coordinator, Auburn University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week for the ABCA Podcast is Div. I Assistant Coach of the Year, Karl Nonemaker. The Auburn recruiting coordinator and the Tigers had a great season finishing up in Omaha at the College World Series. Auburn was consistent all year with a 43-22 overall and 16-13 SEC record. Nonemaker is in charge of the infielders and assists with the hitters. They were strong on both sides with a .446 slugging percentage and .981 fielding percentage. Nonemaker’s has had two stints with the Auburn program. He has also had stops at Monmouth and Old Dominion. He was a four year starter for Vanderbilt University and played 2 seasons in the Phillies organization. This episode is all about life as a Div. I assistant and player development so get your pad and pen ready. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tracy Hayes, aka MobilityChick

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Heading back into the training world on this week’s ABCA Podcast with Amplified Movement’s, Tracy Hayes. Tracy now works with 25 MLB teams on her mobility series. Tracy has a diverse background with a number of certifications and studied Neurolinguistics Programming, as well as Cognitive and Neurosciences studies at Northwestern University. She originally got her start in professional baseball teaching yoga to the Kansas City Royals in spring training. The Covid 20’ spring, she started offering online classes to all professional baseball players after spring training got shut down. She has more than 15 years of experience in working with professional athletes in functional movement and balance. In this episode we discuss betting on yourself, kinematic sequencing, how the best coaches now are more generalists and holistic training methods. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Anthony Gilich, Head Coach, Central Arizona

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Rounding out our ABCA/ATEC college coaching award winners, we sit down with Central Arizona head coach, Anthony Gilich. Gilich was honored with the NJCAA Div. I Coach of the Year Award. Gilich is heading into his 8th season as head coach and 15thoverall at Central Arizona. Gilich guided the 2022 Central Arizona squad to the NJCAA Div. I National Championship with a 59-13 record, which is best in school history. This was Central Arizona’s 4th national championship and the second for Coach Gilich. His 2019 squad was also national champions. Pitching and defense have always been a staple of the Central Arizona program and this year was no different with a 3.32 team ERA and .972 fielding percentage. The pitching staff had 11.79 k’s per 9 innings. In this episode Coach Gilich gives us great advice on how to get your players to be ready to go each and every day. Get your pad and pen ready because Coach Gilich has some great mottos that you will want to implement with your team or organization. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Brian Hamm, Head Coach, Yale & ECSU

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we check in with current Yale head coach and former Eastern Connecticut State head coach, Brian Hamm. Eastern Connecticut took home the 2022 Div. III National Championship. Hamm was honored with the ABCA/ATEC Coach of the Year Award and the College Baseball Foundation’s Skip Bertman Award. Eastern Connecticut has been a Div. III powerhouse but this is their first national championship in 20 years. Eastern Connecticut tied for second most ever wins in a Div. III season with 49 and also finished the season with a school record 23 wins in a row. The Warriors had a formidable offense with a .336 batting average and scoring almost 10 runs per game. They were stout on the defensive side as well with a 2.91 era and .973 fielding percentage. Before coming to Eastern, Hamm coached at Amherst for 13 years. Amherst had their most successful stint in school history during that time. While at Amherst, Hamm started the baseball analytics team which has a half-dozen former members working for MLB teams. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Landon Powell, Head Coach, North Greenville University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Div. II National Champion North Greenville head coach, Landon Powell. Powell was honored with the ABCA/ATEC Coach of the year award. Powell and the North Greenville program brought home their first national championship this year. The year before Coach Powell took over the program they were 8-35. North Greenville now has 4 regional appearances in a row. North Greenville had a complete squad this year with a .331 batting average and 3.59 era. They were a handful for their opponents stealing 145 bases and scoring almost 10 runs per game. Powell had a tremendous playing career as a 4 year starter at South Carolina and as a journeyman catcher in the big leagues. In this episode we discuss how he has built the program, player development, how he is blending his faith into the program and his work with Donors on the Diamond charity. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Mike Bianco, Head Coach, Ole Miss

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Division I National Champion Ole Miss head coach, Mike Bianco. This continues our series of ABCA Coaches that were National Champions this year. Bianco was honored with the ABCA/ATEC Coach of the year award. Bianco just finished his 22nd season at Ole Miss and is the longest tenured coach in the SEC. In 22 seasons leading the program, Bianco has led Ole Miss to 18 postseason, 8 Super Regional and 2 College World Series appearances. Bianco is one of the best we have in the game and has had some tremendous mentors in Jim Wells and Skip Bertman. Bianco has had a busy summer going straight from winning a National Championship to managing the USA College National Team. If you want to dive back into the archives, Coach Bianco and his sons were on the podcast with me for the Father and Son series. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Rudy Arguelles, Head Coach, Riverside CC

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we check in with ABCA/ATEC Pacific Association Regional Coach of the Year, Riverside CC head coach, Rudy Arguelles. Riverside CC is now in elite company having won their 5th CCCAA championship. Arguelles has been a part of all 5 championships as either a player, assistant or head coach. This year’s state championship moves Riverside into 3rd place and one win away from 2ndplace for California state championships. I had a chance to meet Coach Arguelles in Folsom, CA in May. I was extremely impressed with how he and the Riverside program carried themselves. Riverside plays with a team first mentality on both sides of the baseball. They had a .420 team on base percentage and 88 hit by pitches. Their pitching staff had over 8 strikeouts per 9 innings and they fielded .970. This is a heartfelt listen from two people who are passionate about the game of baseball. We are kindred spirits because we both wear are emotions on our sleeves. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jason Rathbun, Head Coach, Herkimer College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we check in with another ABCA/ATEC National Coach of the Year award recipient with Herkimer’s Jason Rathbun. Herkimer won this year’s NJCAA Div. III National Championship with a 41-7 record. Herkimer made their 7th world series appearance this year. The Generals had three ABCA/Rawlings All-American’s in Greg Farone, Ryan Packard, and Dakota Britt. Rathbun took over the program in 2005 and the impact was immediate, breaking the school record for wins in his first season. Rathbun has a unique path in that he started out in the military. His family has had 5 generations of military personnel. We got a chance to catch up with Coach Rathbun while he is with the reigning Cape League Champion Brewster Whitecaps this Summer. This is an entertaining listen, and we get on a deep dive on accountability. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Adrian Dinkel, Head Coach, Southeastern University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is NAIA National Champion Southeastern University head coach, Adrian Dinkel. Dinkel was honored with the ABCA/ATEC NAIA Coach of the Year Award. Southeastern broke the school record for wins with a 59-4 record. The Fire had big time numbers on offense and pitching with a .360 team batting average and a 3.25 team era. Gary Lora, Robb Adams, Brian Fuentes and Abdel Guadalupe were named to the ABCA/Rawlings All America team. This was Southeastern’s second national championship, they also took home the crown in 2018. Dinkel has also had stops at Bethany, Clarendon College and Sterling. Success has followed Coach Dinkel at every stop on his coaching journey. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Michael Avalon, Head Coach, Pearl River CC

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Div. II NJCAA National Champion Pearl River College head coach, Michael Avalon. This kicks off our series of ABCA/ ATEC championship coaches. Avalon was honored with the ABCA/ATEC NJCAA Div. II Coach of the Year Award. Pearl River was 45-11, winning 11 of their last 12 games and advanced to Enid after winning the extremely competitive Region 23 tournament. Pearl River had gaudy offensive numbers this year with a .336 team batting average and 85 home runs. Pearl River outfielder, Tate Parker, was honored with the ABCA/Rawlings NJCAA Div. II Player of the Year Award. Parker ended the season with 90 hits, 19 home runs and 65 rbi. I had a chance to sit down with Coach Avalon in Enid, OK during the World Series. This pressbox conversation took us in a bunch of different directions and I appreciate Coach Avalon’s willingness to take time out of his schedule in Enid. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Div. III National Championship Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The final on location episode takes us to Cedar Rapids, IA for the Div. III National Championship. We had a chance to sit down with American’s Ross Natoli, Marietta’s Brian Brewer, Trinity’s Tim Scannell, Eastern Connecticut State’s Brian Hamm, Salisbury’s Troy Brohawn, Baldwin Wallaces’ Brian Harrison, and American Rivers Commissioner Dan Hammes. Congrats to Brian Hamm and the Eastern Connecticut State program for bringing home this year’s championship. Once again, thanks to all the coaches who took time to sit down with me. It is an extremely hectic time for coaches and can’t thank them enough for carving out time out of their busy schedules. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

NJCAA Div. II Championship

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Two more weeks of on location episodes. This week we head to Enid, OK for the NJCAA Divi. II Championship. Enid does a phenomenal job of hosting this tournament. It is truly a mini-Omaha. The NJCAA and the town of Enid provide a phenomenal student-athlete experience. In this episode we will hear from Murray State’s Sam Bjorling, Lansing’s Steven Cutter, Heartland’s Chris Razo and Enid Sports Director Bill Mayberry. Pearl River’s Michael Avalon and I also sat down but went so long, he will have his own podcast coming up in the next couple of weeks. Congrats to Pearl River for taking home this year’s Championship. Once again, thanks to all the coaches who took time to sit down with me. It is an extremely hectic time for coaches and can’t thank them enough for carving out time out of their busy schedules. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

CCCAA Championship

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The next 3 weeks podcasts will be on location episodes. This week we got a chance to sit down with coaches at the California junior college championship in Folsom, CA. In this episode we will hear from Palomar’s Ben Adams, Ohlone’s Mike Curran, Riverside’s Rudy Arguelles, Folsom Lake’s Rich Gregory and CCCBCA President Chris Pedretti. This is a great time of the year with college championships going on. I appreciate coaches being willing to sit down in a hectic time for them getting their teams ready to compete for a championship. I am always impressed with the high level of baseball I see all over the country at every level of baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Shohn Doty, Head Coach & AD, Gaston College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Our next guest on the ABCA podcast is Gaston College head coach and athletic director, Shohn Doty. Doty has 33 years of coaching experience and 18 at the Division I level. Doty has had stops at Arkansas, Indiana State, Old Dominion, UNC-Wilmington, and UNC-Charlotte. Gaston College had a 41-9 record this season but since they are a new NJCAA team, they were not eligible for the postseason. Doty was recently named the NJCAA Region 10 Coach of the Year. In this episode we discuss starting the program at Gaston, being around some of the best coaches in the game, what his journey has taught him, and coaching elite players like Justin Verlander. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jack Warren, Top Coach Podcast

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

With this being our 300th ABCA Podcast episode, we wanted to have on the “Godfather of Baseball Podcasting”, Jack Warren. Warren runs the Top Coach Podcast and is owner of Cornbelt Sports. The Top Coach Podcast is the original baseball podcast. Warren showed everyone what was possible in baseball podcasting. Warren does a great job with his guests, and it is always an enjoyable listen. In this episode we discuss podcasting & interviewing tips, what he has learned from his guests, traits of the most successful coaches, growth mindset, tips that he is giving young coaches he is mentoring, and what both of us have learned through this whole process. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Veronica Alvarez, USA Women's National Team Manager

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA podcast is USA Women’s National Team Manager, Veronica Alvarez. Alvarez has been instrumental in putting the USA Women’s team on the map internationally. Alvarez played softball collegiately at Villanova. After college Alvarez had an opportunity to go to Spain and compete. From 2008 to 2015, Alvarez played with the USA Women’s Baseball squad winning gold medal in the Pan American Games in 2015. Her managerial debut was in 2019 and she was honored with the Rod Dedeaux Coach of the Year award. In this episode we discuss her path in baseball, her work with the Oakland Athletics as a catching instructor, the MLB Trailblazer Series and the similarities to coaching baseball & her work as a firefighter-paramedic. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Nathan Hemphill, Owner, PSP3

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This is an important time of the year for athletes with Spring season’s ending and Summer ball getting ready to start. In this week’s ABCA Podcast we sit down with PSP3 Owner & Director of Sports Performance, Nathan Hemphill. Hemphill did his undergraduate work at Missouri State and worked with the St. Louis Cardinals rookie ball and double A affiliates. Hemphill did his graduate work at Seattle University. After getting his Master’s he headed to UC-Davis. Hemphill is running 3 training facilities in the Kansas City area. He gave a phenomenal talk at our Royals Youth Academy Barnstormers this past Fall. You can watch his video on the ABCA website or on the My ABCA app. In this episode we dive into summer training protocols, recommendations for the calendar year, the holistic approach to training athletes and finding your purpose in life. You are going to want to have your pad and pen ready for this one. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

John McCarthy, Head Coach, Homewood-Flossmoor HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this week’s ABCA Podcast we check in with Homewood Flossmoor head baseball coach & counselor, John McCarthy. Coach McCarthy was a draft out of high school and headed to Mesa Community College out of the Chicagoland area. He finished his undergraduate degree playing for Tony Robichaux and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajun baseball program. After his playing career Coach McCarthy got his Master’s in school counseling from Lewis University and coached with the Illinois Sparks travel program. His next step in his journey took him back to the Catholic League in Chicago coaching at Brother Rice. In this episode we discuss what he learned from Tony Robichaux & John Scefz, blending travel baseball with your high school program, getting things turned around at Homewood Flossmoor and how he is using his counseling degree to help his high school players. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

On the Road with NHSI Coaches

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 May 2022 09:37:00 +0000

This week we head over to Cary, NC to talk to coaches at the National High School Invitational. This is an annual event that USA Baseball hosts, bringing in some of the best high school teams in the nation. The USA Baseball staff does a phenomenal job with the event. It is amazing the type of talent we have all over the country at the high school level. Congrats to Todd Fitz-Gerald and Stoneman Douglas High School for taking home the title this year. In this episode we talked to Orange Lutheran’s Eric Borba, Regis Jesuit’s Matt Darr, Stoneman Douglas’ Todd Fitz-Gerald, St. Johns Country Day’s Tom Lucas, DH Conley’s Jason Mills, Bishop Vero’s Casey Scott, The First Academy’s Scott Grove and Hamilton’s Mike Woods. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tim Cordill, NCAA Umpire

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 02 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Owner/CEO of the Ump-App, NCAA umpire and Director of Umpire Culture, Recruitment, Training and Retention at Perfect Game, Tim Cordill. Cordill took time out of his busy schedule in January to come to the ABCA convention in Chicago to talk to our high school, youth, and travel coaches. We are heading into a scary time where we are seeing an umpire shortage. It is something that is going to negatively impact the game if we don’t get it fixed. In this episode we discuss parent, coach, and umpire relationships, how we can recruit and retain a new generation of umpires and how all of us can help the game thrive for our players, coaches, and umpires. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Rob Hahne, ABCA Youth Committee Chair

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast is with someone who touches every level of amateur baseball, ABCA Youth Committee Chair, Rob Hahne. Hahne is Westfield High School head coach, Executive Director of the Northern Virginia Travel Baseball League, Chair of the Fairfax County Baseball Council and was just elected to the ABCA Board of Directors. Since joining the ABCA Youth and Travel committees, Coach Hahne has jumped right in trying to help the organization help amateur baseball. He has brought a fresh set of ideas to help us better serve the game of baseball. Get your pad and pen ready because we discuss all things amateur baseball in this one. This episode should help any parent, coach, administrator, or organization. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Todd Blyleven, Pocket Radar & The Scout Hub

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is another baseball lifer, Todd Blyleven. Blyleven is another example of the many paths you can take in the game. He got a first-hand look at the game at a young age with his dad, Bert. Todd was a great player in his own right and carved out his own path excelling in high school, college and professionally. Once he finished playing, Blyvleven entered the real world in marketing but eventually found his way back to game through professional scouting with the Angels. Currently Blyleven is Owner/CEO of The Scout Hub and Marketing Manager at Pocket Radar. This episode is all about life’s lessons. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Daniel Keller, ABCA Youth Committee Member & Mojo App

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this week’s ABCA Podcast we talk about all things youth baseball with ABCA Youth & Dave Keilitz Ethics Award Committee member and former college pitching coach, Daniel Keller. Coach Keller is an 18-year continuous ABCA member and has spent over 22 years coaching pitchers. His last stop collegiately was at Cypress Community College. His path has taken him all over the baseball landscape as a coach, private instructor, and baseball entrepreneur. He started the Dugout Captain app and is now working on the Mojo app which just teamed up with Major League Baseball to provide coaching resources to the Boys and Girls club. This episode is a discussion on what we need to do to help youth baseball. Coach Keller is coaching his 9-year-old son now, so we talk about some of the things he has learned. There is a lot of positive energy in this one. We both believe that we need to build passion and love for the game from the bottom up which will help high school, college, and professional baseball. We also go into the nomination process for the ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics Award. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Ron Scott, Fresno City CC

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Our next guest on the ABCA Podcast is Fresno City Community College head coach, Ron Scott. Scott has spent 34 seasons at Fresno City and just broke the California Community College record for career wins this spring. Scott’s playing career started at the junior college level and ended up playing for coaching legend Ron Fraser at the University of Miami. Scott’s career path started at the high school level for 10 seasons at Chowchilla & Madera High Schools. Scott is another living legend of the game who has found a way to carve out a career with one college program and make history. In this episode we discuss what breaking the record means to him, what he learned from Ron Fraser, his two daughters that are in coaching, his assistant Eric Solberg who has been with him for 34 years, program management and we do a deep dive into game strategy. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Todd Fitz-Gerald, Stoneman Douglas High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Kevin Graber, Phillips Andover Academy

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000

We head over to prep baseball on this week’s ABCA Podcast with, Phillips Academy Andover head coach, Kevin Graber. Graber also carries the title of senior associate director of admission at Andover. Phillips Andover has become a consistent winner during Coach Graber’s tenure. Graber has had a unique path in the game playing baseball at Winthrop, Saint Rose and professionally. He has coached at every level of baseball. He is also a cancer survivor. Graber spoke on the main stage at this year’s Chicago Convention. In this episode we cover cold weather practice planning, what he learned coaching summer ball, his battle with lymphoma, what he loves about teaching and coaching at Phillips Andover and his preparation for speaking on the Main Stage. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Matt Swope, University of Maryland

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000

All things hitting on this week’s ABCA Podcast with our guest, Maryland recruiting coordinator, Matt Swope. Coach Swope is a Maryland alum and he has a lot of passion and pride in the school. Offense has been a hallmark of the Maryland program since Coach Swope came back to his alma mater. The 2021 Maryland squad led the Big Ten in home runs, total bases, stolen bases, and hit by pitches. The Terps finished second in runs, rbi, on-base percentage, slugging percentage and base on balls. In this episode we cover coaching offense, recruiting, player development, what he learned as a professional hitter, why working in the real world first has helped him as a coach and his personal relationship to raising money for cancer research. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Jordan Tabakman, Fairfield University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000

This week’s ABCA Podcast is with 2021 Collegiate Baseball News Rawlings Pitching Coach of the Year, Fairfield University’s Jordan Tabakman. 2021 was a magical season for Fairfield and a lot of that had to do with their pitching staff. Their starting rotation was 28-4 last year with 9 shutouts and 8 complete games. Fairfield was awarded an at large bid and if you follow the Division I landscape, you know how hard that is to do for a mid-major program. Fairfield’s run ended in the NCAA Regional Finals. Tabakman has also spent time at Albany, Amherst College and UConn. Tabakman competed collegiately at UConn. We cover all things pitching in this episode. This is a deep dive into the yearly calendar, pitch development, throwing program, drills, bullpens, practice planning in cold weather, recovery and in season staff management. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Bianca Smith, Boston Red Sox Coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Boston Red Sox coach, Bianca Smith. Smith’s path in coaching started at Case Western University when she was working on her MBA and Law Degree. Smith was originally on a track to work in an MLB front office position but found her passion for coaching at Case Western. After her time at Case, she coached at the University of Dallas and interned for the Texas Rangers. She spent time with the Major League Baseball office and Cincinnati Reds. In 2019 Smith was hired to work for Carroll University as assistant baseball coach and hitting coordinator. This past Spring she was hired by the Boston Red Sox. Coach Smith is a Dartmouth grad where she started on the cheerleading squad but found her way onto the softball team and club baseball team. This is a great discussion on coaching journey, how working other jobs helps you find your true passion, and what she has learned along the way to help her coach her Red Sox players. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Wendi Irlbeck, Performance Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, CISSN

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 10:03:00 +0000

This time of year we try to give coaches information they can implement with their team going into their seasons. Next up on the ABCA Podcast is sport dietician Wendi Irlbeck. Irlbeck is a registered dietician nutritionist. Irlbeck earned her M.S. in Food and Nutrional Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Irlbeck is accredited all over the health and wellness landscape and is also NSCA certified. Irlbeck’s website is nutritionwithendi.com. You can also find her on twitter, instagram, and linkedin. Irlbeck was a college athlete and also spent time in the body building space. Wendi and I are kindred spirits when it comes to nutrition and supplementation. There are a lot of myths out there so we do a deep dive into what the actual research is saying on nutrition and supplementation. She gives us a lot of actionable tips that should help you and your athletes. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

NCAA Div. I Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Opening week of Division I Baseball. Great time of the year with every level of college baseball now going. Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our Division I Preview. We have an entertaining line up of College Baseball Writers in this episode. Vinnie Cervino from Perfect Game gets us started. Then we hand it over to Teddy Cahill from Baseball America and we finish it off with D1Baseball’s Mike Rooney, Aaron Fitt & Kendall Rogers. As a life-long fan of College Baseball, this is always an exciting time of the year for me. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

NAIA, Junior College, and NCAA Div. II & Div. III Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our NAIA, Junior College, Division III and Division II preview. Robby Gutierrez from NAIA Ball leads us off. After that we kick it over to Brian Sakowski from Perfect Game and Noah Sharp from the Juco Ball Blog to cover all things junior college baseball. Then we hand it over to Jordan Shusterman and Jake Mintz from Cespedes Family BBQ fame and the D3 Baseball Podcast to talk all things Div III. Finally, we finish up with Wayne Cavadi, Wayne covers all things Div II for NCAA.com. This is the best time of the year with season’s already kicking off and season’s getting ready to start. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

David Whiteside, New York Yankees Director of Performance

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Our January 2022 episodes end with a bang here with Yankees’ Director of Performance Science, David Whiteside. Dillon Lawson and David gave one of the best presentations I have seen on training environment at the 2021 I-70 virtual clinic. Whiteside has worked for the New York Yankees for the last 5 years. Whiteside did his postdoctoral work at the University of Michigan. Whiteside also has two different stints working with Tennis Australia as a sports performance scientist. Whiteside is a great conversation because he isn’t afraid to ask questions and then test those questions. He is a fresh voice in the baseball community. We cover a wide range of topics in this episode including elite mindset, training environment, equipment modifications, drill design, his time with Michigan Baseball, Tennis Australia and the New York Yankees. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Austin Byler, Major League University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Austin Byler from Major League University keeps us going in 2022. Byler had a phenomenal playing career at the University of Nevada. Byler was drafted in the 9thround by the Nationals in 2014 and the 11th round by the Diamondbacks in 2015. Byler was a semi-finalist for the Dick Howser Award. Byler founded Major League University with Nevada teammate Kewby Meyer. Major League University focuses on leadership and mental health. They have also started Project Sandlot NFT’s to benefit under privileged youth sports. This is a wide-open conversation on peak performance, mental health, being open to asking for help and NFT’s. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Dr. Luke Wilkins, Nottingham Trent University, Cognition Specialist

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

2022 is rolling with our January podcasts. My hope is that we give you some different things to think about this month. We jump right into vision, cognition and skill acquisition with Dr. Luke Wilkins. Dr. Wilkins is a senior lecturer in sport and exercise psychology at Nottingham Trent University in the UK. He attained his PhD in Vision Testing and Visual Training in Sport from the University of Birmingham in 2015 under the supervision of Dr. Rob Gray. Prior to working at NTU, Dr. Wilkins worked for the New York Yankees as both a vision, perception, and cognition coach as well as a skill acquisition specialist. Get ready to see what is on the horizon from a player development standpoint. We dive into research on the role vision plays in performance, virtual reality, stroboscopic glasses and a whole host of other resources to dive into. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Dr. Chris Winter, MLB Sleep Doctor

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year and welcome to the ABCA podcast. This week’s guest is Dr. Chris Winter. This is a great way to kick off this year’s episodes. Dr. Winter has been called “The Sleep Whisperer”. He is certified by the American Board of Sleep Medicine & the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has his medical degree from the University of Virginia. He runs his practice at Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Winter has worked with MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL teams. He has two books out now, The Sleep Solution and The Rested Child. He got his start working with professional sports teams when he started to track how switching time zones affected won loss percentage with MLB teams. He coined the term “circadian advantage”. With his work he has brought to light how lack of sleep causes injuries. This episode will be a great resource for anyone. We go all over the map on sleep and performance. I am very passionate about the subject of sleep and how it affects you daily. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com that is T E A M B U I L D R.com.

Altobelli Family Tribute

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 10:50:00 +0000

Finishing up our ABCA 2022 Hall of Fame Podcast Series is a tribute to John, Keri and Alyssa Altobelli. This episode is a celebration of their life and legacy. Altobelli led the Orange Coast College program for 27 seasons. At the time of his passing he was the winningest coach in school history. In 2019 he became just the 16th coach in California Community College Athletic Association history to reach the 700 win mark. Altobelli’s 4 State titles tied for 3rd all time and just behind coaching legends Wally Kincaid and Scott Pickler. In this episode we will hear from some of the people that the Altobelli Family impacted with University of Houston head coach Todd Whitting, former Santa Ana College head coach Don Sneddon, Cypress Community College head coach Scott Pickler, former Oregon head coach George Horton, Cal State Fullerton assistant Josh Belovsky, University of Texas head coach David Pierce and Orange Coast College assistant Tim Matz. We will finish the episode with a piece that Sports Illustrated’s Michael McKnight put together after the helicopter crash. I want to thank Michael for allowing us to use the interview. Thanks so much for listening and Leave it Better Those Behind You. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com.

Chicago Convention Preview

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 10:49:00 +0000

We here at the ABCA office are so excited to be back on site this year in Chicago. Before we look forward to this year’s convention, we do want to thank everyone again that participated in last year’s Virtual convention. As soon as the virtual convention ended last year, we got right to work on making this year’s convention in Chicago one of the best in the history of the organization. Today’s episode covers everything you need to know about the convention. Our goal every year is to make this a wonderful experience for our attendees, guests, sponsors and exhibitors. I hope you enjoy and we look forward to seeing everyone January 6th. Thanks again for your support and trust. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. The ABCA podcast is also sponsored by TeamBuildr. TeamBuildr is offering both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs specific to pitchers or position players. These programs come free with any TeamBuildr free trial. Their software is trusted and used by the best. TeamBuildr has helped propel many teams to win championships, and most recently the World Series Championship, Atlanta Braves. Personally, we used TeamBuildr my last couple of years at Western Illinois. You can get the program once you start a 14-day trial with TeamBuildr. Use promo code ABCA when you sign up for your free trial at TeamBuildr.com.

Hal Baird and Sammy Dunn Tribute, 2021 Hall of Fame Class

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 01:57:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. This week we begin a new series of ABCA Podcast episodes featuring members of the ABCA Hall of Fame Class of 2021. We have a special one to start with newly elected Hal Baird along with UAB head coach Casey Dunn, who is representing his father, Sammy Dunn, who passed away in 2004. Baird spent the majority of his head coaching career at Auburn University, where he left as Auburn’s all-time winningest coach after 16 seasons. His tenure included two College World Series appearances, two 50-win seasons and nine regional appearances. He previously was head coach at East Carolina for five seasons, leading the Pirates to three NCAA Regionals, and finished with 779 victories between the two schools. Sammy Dunn was one of the most successful baseball coaches in the history of Alabama high school baseball, leading Vestavia Hills High School to 647 victories and nine Alabama 6A state titles in 27 seasons. At the time of his passing in 2004, he was Alabama's all-time winningest coach. Casey Dunn spent 16 seasons as head coach at Samford before being named UAB's head coach this past summer and had the honor of playing for both his father as well as Coach Baird. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

George Horton, 2021 Hall of Fame Class

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. In the second installment of our ABCA Hall of Fame Podcasts, George Horton joins us. Horton is one of the few people out there who can say he was on a coaching staff with Wally Kincaid, Dave Snow and Augie Garrido. He is a 38-year continuous ABCA member and his 2004 Cal State Fullerton Squad won the national championship. As an assistant coach, Horton was an integral part of helping Garrido build Fullerton into a powerhouse program. In 2007, Horton was hired to bring the baseball program back at the University of Oregon. Horton has 865 wins as a head coach. He took the Ducks to five NCAA Regionals and one Super Regional appearance in 11 seasons. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Roger Cador, 2021 Hall of Fame Class

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 28 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Don Sneddon, 2021 Hall of Fame Class

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. Our next guest on the ABCA Podcast is Don Sneddon. This is the fourth installment of our ABCA Hall of Fame Podcasts. Coach Sneddon is a 2021 Hall of Fame inductee. Coach Sneddon played for Wally Kincaid, Dave Snow and Augie Garrido. Coach Sneddon spent 32 years as the Head Coach at Santa Ana College. He is the all time winningest Coach in California Community College History with 1072 Victories. He was the first coach to 900 and then 1000 wins. He also has experience on the pro side coaching with the Colorado Rockies. He also has experience coaching in the Cape Cod League. Coach Sneddon was an assistant for Jerry Weinstein with the Wareham Gateman in 2016 and 2017. He was the Gateman’s manager in 2018 leading them to the Cape League Championship. Coach Sneddon is a 42 year continuous ABCA member and is a 2015 California Community College Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame Inductee. Get ready to learn. Coach Sneddon is one of the best Educators we have in the game. He was one of the first coaches to work with Ken Ravizza. He taught the entire time he was coaching at Santa Ana and we dive into how he blended the classroom and the baseball field. We get right into how he used breathing techniques to help future firefighters and policeman. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Wayne Graham, 2021 Hall of Fame Class

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. In our fifth installment of the ABCA Hall of Fame Podcasts, we speak with Wayne Graham. He coached for 38 seasons between high school, San Jacinto College and Rice University. In 11 seasons at San Jac he won 675 games, had an .875 winning percentage and won five national championships in six seasons. He was named JUCO Coach of the Century by Baseball America. In 1992, he took over a Rice University program which had seven winning seasons and no postseason appearances in 78 years. From 1995-2017, Rice made 23-straight NCAA Regional appearances, seven College World Series appearances and won the national championship in 2003. Graham embodies winning and also balance. He had a keen recruiting eye for finding diamonds in the rough. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tony Robichaux Tribute

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. This episode is a tribute to Louisiana head coach Tony Robichaux, who passed away in 2019. Robichaux was the epitome of character and leadership. He coached 33 seasons at the NCAA Div. I level at McNeese State and Louisiana and ended with 1177 wins, 12 NCAA Regional appearances, four Super Regional appearances and one College World Series appearance. In this episode, we hear from six coaches that Coach Robichaux impacted greatly: Radford's Karl Kuhn, Louisiana's Matt Deggs, Virginia Tech's John Scefc, West Monroe's Wade Simoneaux, South Alabama's Mark Calvi and Louisiana assistant Anthony Babineaux. We heard time and again from Robichaux that it wasn’t about the wins or baseball, it was about developing people and making a positive impact on the World around you. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Lance Spigner & Ryan McGinnis, 2021 Dave Keiltiz Ethics Award Winners

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. This week's ABCA Podcast features ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award recipients Lance Spigner and Ryan McGinnis. Dave Keiltitz was the ABCA Executive Director from 1994-2014 and was longtime head baseball coach and later Athletic Director at Central Michigan University. Keilitz was inducted to the ABCA Hall of Fame in 1989. Spigner is first on this week's podcast. He is going into his second season with the brand new junior college program at University of Arkansas Rich Mountain following 28 very successful years at Horatio High School, where he won five state championships. The second half of the episode is with McGinnis, Athletic Director and head baseball coach at Kimberly High School in Wisconsin. McGinnis has 345 career victories and Kimberly has nine state tournament trips with two state championships. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jerry Weinstein, 2021 Lefty Gomez Award Winner

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Last year’s virtual convention forced us to postpone the Hall of Fame banquet. In order to celebrate the 2021 class we did a series of podcasts with the inductees. We are using Christmas break here to reissue last year’s episodes to once again celebrate the 2021 class. We are so excited for the Chicago convention and to be able to honor the 2021 and 2022 classes at the Hall of Fame banquet on Friday January 7th. We can’t thank all of you enough for your continued trust and support. I hope you all enjoy listening to these legends of the game. Next up on the ABCA Podcast is baseball coaching legend Jerry Weinstein, recipient of the 2021 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award. Weinstein is an ambassador for the game around the world and his resume reads like a wish list for any coach. He coached in a College World Series with Miami as an assistant coach and, as a head coach at Sacramento City College, won 831 games, 16 league titles, a national championship and had 213 players drafted, including 28 big leaguers. He has also coached in the Cape Cod League, coached with Team USA, and was the manager for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic. He currently coaches with the Colorado Rockies and is heading up the Catching Hot Stove at the Virtual ABCA Convention. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Marty Paulsen, Head Coach, Fond du Lac High School

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA 2022 Hall of Fame inductee Fond du Lac head coach, Marty Paulsen. Paulsen has coached in 7 different decades. Paulsen is entering his 54th season at Fond du Lac. Paulsen has over 600 wins and is 2nd in all-time wins for active coaches in the state of Wisconsin. The Cardinals have appeared in the state tournament in 5 different decades and won the 2000 state championship. Paulsen is still coaching at an elite level, taking Fondy to the state playoffs in 2019. In this episode you will see why Coach Paulsen is still having success. He has a passion for teaching and coaching. Get your pad and pen ready because Coach Paulsen gives out a ton of great nuggets in this episode. He is the blueprint for living a life well lived. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Paul Page, Former Head Coach, Ohio Dominican

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is former Ohio Domincan athletic director and head coach, Paul Page. Page is in this year’s ATEC/ ABCA Hall of Fame class. In 29 seasons with Ohio Dominican, Page won over a thousand games. Page is in the top 15 for career wins in NAIA. Page started his coaching career with 2 legends in Mississippi State’s Ron Polk and Marietta’s Don Schaly. Page coached 2 national championship teams at Marietta and led Ohio Dominican to 6 NAIA World Series appearances. In his time at Ohio Dominican, Page produced 39 All-Americans and 20 Academic All Americans. This episode is all about work ethic, discipline and accountability. We discuss his sacrifices along the way, player management, and his work now with Coaches Fore Coaches. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Dave Barnett, Head Coach, Flagler College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA 2022 Hall of Fame inductee Dave Barnett. Barnett is entering his 35th season as the head coach at Flagler College. He is close to eclipsing the 1000 win mark and is 12th in wins among active Division II coaches. Barnett spent 15 seasons as athletic director and head coach at Flagler. He oversaw the transition from NAIA to Division II. Flagler competes in one of the most competitive conferences in Division II. Barnett has been at every level of baseball from high school all the way to pro baseball. He is a 36 year continuous lifetime member of the ABCA. Get ready for an entertaining episode. The game of baseball has taken Coach Barnett down many paths. We get a chance to discuss his playing career including his time with Eddie Feigner and The King & His Court. We also cover his coaching tree, his love of Flagler College and being grateful for your opportunities. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Tom Walter, Head Coach, Wake Forest University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000

This year’s Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award winner is Wake Forest head coach, Tom Walter. Walter is entering his 13th season at Wake. Walter is one of the best we have in the game on developing players. In the last 9 seasons, Wake Forest has had 34 players improve their draft stock from high school. 27 of those players were not drafted out of high school. Walter’s path has taken him all over the baseball industry. He has spent time at George Washington, the University of New Orelans, Wake Forest, the Cape League and was assistant GM of the Greensboro Bats. Walter and Kevin Jordan were the 2021 recipients of the Stuart Scott Enspire Award. You can dive more into their non-profit Get In The Game at getinthegame.org. This is a great episode on servant leadership and finding ways to give back. We also dive into player development, coaching at high academic institutions, similarities in dealing with Katrina & Covid and other life lessons learned on his journey. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Ron Maestri, Former UNO Head Coach & Athletic Director

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Baseball Coaching Legend, Ron Maestri. Maestri is the ABCA Wilson/Lefty Gomez Award Recipient this year. This is the highest award that the ABCA gives out every year. Maestri’s footprint is all over the Baseball Industry. Over 16 seasons as head coach at the University of New Orleans he had 543 wins and led UNO to the Division II and Division I World Series. Maestri was inducted into the ABCA Hall of Fame in 1991. Maestri carried dual athletic director/head coach duties in his time at UNO. Maestri has shown elite organizational skills with his work with the New Orleans Zephyrs, the New Orleans Sports Commission and was instrumental in turning the College World Series into what it is today. This episode is a celebration of Coach Maestri and what he has meant to the baseball industry. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

David McDonald, Georgia Dugout Club & Wheeler HS

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000

The name David McDonald is synonymous with baseball in the State of Georgia. His career in Georgia started at Wheeler High School in 1979. He ended his run as head coach in 2010. In that time he led Wheeler to almost 500 wins and 7 state playoff appearances. After his time at Wheeler, McDonald has been an assistant at Mt. Paran and the Lovett School. Outside of coaching, McDonald has made a larger impact on the game with his time with the Georgia Dugout Club. He is also a charter member of the National High School Baseball Coaches Association and is in this year’s ABCA Hall of Fame Class. In this episode we cover his work with the Georgia Dugout Club, what the military did for his coaching career, handling head and assistant coaching duties, fundraising and his experience with the ABCA. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Marty Miller, Former Head Coach & AD, Norfolk State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Our 2nd installment of our ABCA Award series continues with former Norfolk State athletic director and head coach, Marty Miller. Miller has spent over 50 years at Norfolk State as a player, coach, administrator and now his role in development. In 32 seasons as head coach, he was the CIAA’s winningest coach and was coach of the year 15 times. Norfolk State won 17 conference titles during his tenure. Miller’s impact on Norfolk State might have been felt even more in his 15 years as Athletic Director. Norfolk State’s graduation rate increased from 40% to 75% during his time as athletic director. This episode is all about servant leadership. Miller is a shining example of investing your heart and soul into something. He is the definition of leaving it better for those behind you. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Gary Gilmore, Head Coach, Coastal Carolina

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000

This week kicks off our celebration of our 2022 Hall of Fame, Lefty Gomez and Dave Keilitz Ethics Award winners. We start the series off with Coastal Carolina head coach Gary Gilmore. Gilmore is the definition of a program builder. He has amassed over 1200 wins as a head coach at Coastal and USC-Aiken. Since taking over the Coastal program in 1996, the Chanticleers have 16 regional births, 3 super regional appearances and were national champs in 2016. It took Coastal 5 seasons before they made their first regional appearance. This episode is all about fail forward moments. There are going to be bumps along the way on your journey. Coach Gilmore is a great example of showing grit and persistence on your path. This may be the most impactful episode we have recorded up to this point. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Jeff Lightfoot, Assistant Athletic Director & Head Baseball Coach, Weatherford College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000

On this week’s ABCA Podcast we head on location with Weatherford College assistant athletic director and head baseball coach, Jeff Lightfoot. Lightfoot has spent 22 years as a head baseball coach and the last 18 years at Weatherford College. Lightfoot is closing in on the 700 win plateau with his time at Eastfield and Weatherford. Lightfoot’s 1998 Eastfield team won the Division III Junior College World Series. In 18 years, more than 150 former Coyotes have moved on to play baseball at the next level. 31 former Coyotes have played professional baseball including four major leaguers. In this episode we cover player relationships, his dual role as an administrator & coach, what the ABCA has meant to him, evolving from his days as a young head coach, offensive approach and program building. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. That is M A R C Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Terry Gobert, Jasper HS & Nick Gobert, Walters State

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 09:40:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast are Terry and Nick Gobert. Terry is a legend in Indiana High School Baseball. In his time at Jasper High School, Gobert has won six Indiana State Championships, including the final two single class titles. He is one of five coaches in the state to reach the 800-win plateau. Jasper High school is a tradition rich program that includes Scott Rolen and Matt Mauck as alums. Nick is entering his first season as an assistant at Walters State. He started on varsity for 4 years for Terry. After high school he attended Dayton University and the University of Southern Indiana. Gobert started his coaching career at USI and was with Indian Hills last season. Coach Gobert has the blueprint for running a successful organization. In this episode we cover how they handled the player coach relationship, developing winning traditions, how experience still has value, keeping things simple, knowing when to pivot your philosophy, practice planning and how to incorporate family into your program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more. This episode is also brought to you by Marc Pro. Personally I used it as a coach for my ragged out BP arm and legs after a tough workout. We saw huge benefits with our pitchers and position players in decreased soreness and recovery time. It is an amazing machine that speeds up the recovery process by getting blood flow back to areas that need it. It is durable and cost effective. The Marc Pro needs to be a tool in your peak performance tool kit. I can’t recommend it enough. Hit me up if you have any questions. Order now on Marcpro.com and use the promo code ABCA to get 10% off.

Jeff Wood, Director of Sports Medicine, University of Tennessee

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Jumping on the ABCA Podcast this week is University of Tennessee Associate Director of Sports Medicine, Jeff Wood. Wood just finished his 21st season with the UT Baseball program. Wood is a baseball lifer in the athletic training world. His career path mirrors many of our players and coaches. Wood grew up in West Virginia and did his undergraduate work at Marshall. After graduation, Wood started his AT career in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. He was named the Southern League Athletic Trainer of the year in 1987. 2001 was Wood’s first season with the Vols Baseball program and that season ended at the College World Series. The 2021 season was Wood’s 3rd trip to Omaha. Wood has a wealth of knowledge in the game. This is a heart felt episode on baseball, career path, trainer & coach relationship, keeping players healthy, lifestyle and family. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Mark Gjormand, James Madison HS & Sam Gjormand, College of Charleston

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Another great baseball family joins us on the ABCA Podcast with Mark & Sam Gjormand. This is our first Father & Daughter episode. Mark “Pudge” Gjormand is heading into his 27th season at James Madison High School in Northern Virginia and his 35th season overall. Gjormand has led James Madison to three state Championships. The 2021 squad had a phenomenal season finishing second in the nation and winning the class 6 state championship. He was named the Atec/ABCA Region II Coach of the Year this summer. Gjormand is very active on the speaking circuit and is an integral part of the ABCA, National Baseball Coaches Association and MVP International. Sam is blazing her own path in the game. Gjormand helped Pudge with the James Madison High School baseball program while she was in high school. After graduation, Gjormand went to James Madison University and worked with the baseball program. Gjormand had an exciting summer working with the Wareham Gatemen as the assistant to the GM and MLB scout liaison. Gjormand was just named Director of Baseball Operations & Assistant Executive to the Head Coach at the College of Charleston. We head down a lot of different rabbit holes in this episode. This is an impactful conversation on the many ways that you can help the Baseball Community. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Mike Rathwell, CEO, Driveline

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 09:00:00 +0000

Our next guest on the ABCA Podcast is Driveline CEO, Mike Rathwell. Driveline has been on the forefront of testing data driven player development and they are continuing to push the envelope of cost effective player development. Rathwell has a lot of new things to discuss. In this episode we cover Driveline’s rebranding of the Motus Sleeve to Pulse, Traq, their new facility opening up in Arizona, his 3 books that he is re reading right now, Driveline’s hiring process, his views on leadership, their youth academy and starting a new collegiate developmental league in Summer 2022. Quick Reminder on ABCA Renewals, New Membership and Convention Registration. You can do all of that on our website www.abca.org or on the My ABCA app. We are anticipating our largest convention this year. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Kris Goodman, Minor League Mental Performance Coach, Tampa Rays

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 09:22:00 +0000

We dive back into peak performance with Kris Goodman, Tampa Bay Rays minor league mental performance coach. Goodman had a phenomenal career at the University of Iowa and was drafted in the 32nd round of the 2015 draft by the Miami Marlins. After Goodman's playing career was finished he got into college coaching and received his Master of Sports Psychology degree at Minnesota State. This is a deep dive into peak performance and player development. Goodman works with the Rays minor leaguers. He is on the ground floor of trying to help players achieve their goal of playing in the Major Leagues. This is a deep dive into his time growing up as a multi-sport athlete, the role his parents had on his development, the recruiting process, his views on player development and what he is using with his players to help with peak performance in the Rays organization. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Mitch Thompson, McLennan CC head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 09:52:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Div. I NJCAA national champion McLennan Community College head coach, Mitch Thompson. This finishes our series of ABCA coaches that were national champions this year. Thompson was honored with the ABCA/ATEC Coach of the Year Award. The Highlanders were 47-16 winning their last 23 games and running the table in Grand Junction. They had a .961 OPS and 4.12 ERA as a team. This was McLennan’s second national championship in program history. Thompson has 30 plus seasons as a baseball coach. He spent time as a Div. I assistant at Mississippi State, Auburn, Radford and Baylor. He has created a culture of winning at McLennan with three World Series appearances and six straight Region V appearances since he took over in 2015. Not surprising that this is a great conversation with Coach Thompson’s wealth of experience in the game. We cover their championship run, his assistants, what he has learned over the course of his career, his fail forward moment and how he handled McLennan’s 4 game losing streak in the middle of the season. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Patrick Robey, Madison Central HS head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode we cover all things high school baseball with Patrick Robey, Madison Central High School head baseball coach. Madison Central went 34-2 and won the class 6A Mississippi state championship ending the season ranked #1 in the Baseball America poll. Robey was honored with the NHSBCA Coach of the Year Award. Robey competed collegiately at Jones County Junior College and Delta State. After playing professionally Robey started his coaching career at Delta State and East Central Community College. From there Robey moved onto head coach at South Panola and Lafayette High School. He just finished his fifth season with the Madison Central program. In this episode we cover a wide range of topics with Robey’s mentors, practice planning, field work, travel baseball and how to handle coaching elite players. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Chris Lemonis, Mississippi State University head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 09:23:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Div. I national champion Mississippi State University head coach, Chris Lemonis. This continues our series of ABCA coaches that were national champions this year. Lemonis was honored with the ABCA/ATEC coach of the year award. Lemonis just finished his 26th season as a collegiate coach with stops at the Citadel, Louisville, Indiana and Mississippi State. In that time span he has a national championship, five college world series appearances, 16 NCAA tournament appearances and four 50 win seasons. It is hard to believe that this is Mississippi State’s first national championship. It just shows how difficult it is to win the last game of the year. This is a great discussion on Division I baseball, his fail forward moment, handling the pressure of coaching at an elite program and what it takes to climb the ladder at that level. Lemonis has made many sacrifices to get to the position he is in. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Richard Kent, Sports Agent & Sports Law Professor at Manhattanville College

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:14:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is Richard Kent. Kent did his undergrad work at Rutgers and got his law degree from Boston College. He represents basketball and lacrosse coaches. He currently is a sports law professor at Manhattanville and is the author of 11 books. In this episode we dive into the current topic of name, image and likeness. NLI is a new frontier. Kent came on to give us a deep dive into what is going on currently and what the future might look like. Kent’s 11 books cover a wide range of topics including a couple on Roger Federer. Kent coached tennis at Manhattanville so we weaved in a little coaching, elite mindsets and professional development. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jeff Willis, LSU Eunice head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 09:14:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Jeff Willis, NJCAA Div. II national champion LSU-Eunice head coach. Willis has done remarkable things with the LSU Eunice program. They are now tied for most national titles in one sport at the junior college level with seven. Eunice had a phenomenal year, going 51-17 and scoring almost 400 more runs than their opponents. In this episode we break down Eunice’s national championship run, their coaching staff, people development, practice planning, wreaking havoc on offense, ideas to keep pushing junior college baseball forward and his biggest key to keeping the edge to his program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Doug Wren, Tyler JC head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 09:15:00 +0000

Up next on the ABCA Podcast is Doug Wren, head coach of NJCAA Div. III national champion Tyler Junior College. Wren is entering his 13th season as head coach at Tyler and has won five national championships and posted a 459-194 record. The Apaches have made eight World Series appearances in the last 11 years. He is very active with the NJCAA, serving on the Executive and International Committees. In this episode we break down Tyler’s national championship run, coaching staff, player development, practice planning, developing hitters and his "why" of still focusing on what is best for the player. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jeff Gregory, Wingate University head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 06:30:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast, we hear from NCAA Div. II national champion coach Jeff Gregory of Wingate University. This continues our series of ABCA members who won national championships this year. Gregory just finished his 11th season as head coach at Wingate, going 39-13 this year, after time as an assistant coach and player. He has led Wingate to the NCAA Tournament four times. The Bulldogs got hot down the stretch, going 13-2 in the playoffs. Gregory takes us through how a team that hit .289, fielded .960 and had an ERA of 4.23 won the national title. Get your pad and pen ready because Coach Gregory gives us a ton of great nuggets on developing a program! His pride and love for Wingate University comes through in this episode. You can tell he is pouring his blood, sweat and tears into Wingate baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Jeremy Sheetinger, Georgia Gwinnett College head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 15:16:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Georgia Gwinnett College head coach Jeremy Sheetinger. Sheetinger was an ABCA staffer before he took the GGC job, and he also spent time at Spalding, Kentucky, St Joe’s (KY), Brescia and Georgetown College. He has a 160-55 record in five seasons as a head coach. Georgia Gwinnett capped off a phenomenal season, going 51-10 and winning the NAIA national championship. Sheetinger has picked up some post season accolades with the Skip Bertman Award, Rawlings NAIA Coach of the Year and ABCA/ATEC Coach of the Year Awards. In this episode we dive into GGC’s season, assistants and players, actionable tips on developing a successful organization, getting started in the podcast game and how social media can help get messages across to your team. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Troy Brohawn, Salisbury University head coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:19:00 +0000

This week's ABCA Podcast features Troy Brohawn, head coach of 2021 NCAA Div. III champ Salisbury University. In his seven seasons as head coach, Salisbury has made the NCAA Regionals seven times and been to the College World Series twice, including this year's title. Salisbury has a great tradition, having been to the NCAA Regionals 22 years in a row. Brohawn is one of two coaches to win a Major League Baseball World Series as a player and a Division III National Championship as a coach. He played collegiately at Nebraska and was an ABCA/Rawlings All-American in 1993. He pitched 12+ seasons professionally, spent four seasons as an assistant at Salisbury and five years as head coach at Cambridge South Dorchester High School, where the team won the state championship in 2013. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dave Keilitz, former Central Michigan coach, AD and ABCA Executive Director

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 15:22:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is former Central Michigan head coach, Athletic Director and ABCA Executive Director Dave Keilitz. Keilitz spent 14 seasons as the Chippewas' head coach from 1971-1984. He led Central Michigan to six NCAA Regionals before spending 10 years as CMU Athletic Director. He was also chair of the NCAA Baseball Committee. From 1994-2014 he was the ABCA Executive Director, overseeing saw some of the most important legislation that was put in place for college baseball as well as significant growth of the organization. He is a Central Michigan and ABCA hall of Famer and was recently inducted into the College Baseball Hall of Fame. We got a chance to sit down with Keilitz in the Marriott Hotel in Omaha during the ABCA Board of Directors meetings at the College World Series. Dave is a 52 year continuous member of the ABCA and a shining example of having success as you transition from one step to another in your career. He gives great advice on leading a life of impact and tips on how to be successful as a coach, administrator and executive. This is also a great history lesson on the College game and the ABCA. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

ABCA Member Coaches in Enid, Oklahoma and Cedar Rapids, Iowa

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 15:22:00 +0000

Interviews in this week's ABCA Podcast were recorded on the scene with ABCA member coaches at the NJCAA Div. II Championship in Enid, Oklahoma, and the NCAA Div. III Championship in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We kick it off in Enid with Kellog’s Eric Laskovy, Madison’s Mike Davenport, Lackawanna’s Mike McCarry, Frederick’s Rodney Bennett, Kirkwood’s Todd Rima, Phoenix’s Kevin Kimball, Lincoln Land’s Ron Riggle and national champ Jeff Willis from LSU-Eunice. Then we head over to Cedar Rapids with Adrian’s Craig Rainey, Johns Hopkins’ Bob Babb, Cortland’s Joe Brown, Rowan’s Mike Dickson and national champ Troy Brohawn from Salisbury. There was high level play at both of these championships. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Falmouth's Trundy, San Francisco's Bridges and Lake County's DiCenzo

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 15:19:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast are Falmouth Commodores manager and Gunnery head Coach Jeff Trundy, San Francisco Giants national crosschecker Brian Bridges and Lake County manager Greg DiCenzo. Trundy is heading into his 25th season coaching in the Cape Cod League and his 21st as the manager of Falmouth. He has coached a laundry list of Big Leaguers including David Aardsma, Luke Scott, Rhys Hoskins, Kyle Gibson, Cliff Pennington, Khalil Greene, Jacoby Ellsbury and current Rays manager Kevin Cash. Trundy has made a huge impact on the game of baseball with the players he has coached and the coaches he has had on his staff. Bridges has been with the San Francisco Giants since 2019 and previously was the Scouting Director for the Atlanta Braves and coached at Florida Southern. DiCenzo is currently managing the Lake County Captains in the Cleveland Indians organization. Prior to that, he had a successful 12-year run as head coach at Holy Cross and was previously as an assistant at Northeastern. DiCenzo was on Trundy’s staff at Falmouth from 2002-05. This episode is on leading a life of impact. It will also show how many different paths there are available to impacting the game of baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tony Schifano of San Francisco State University

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:23:00 +0000

This week we hear from Tony Schifano, head coach at San Francisco State University on the ABCA Podcast. Schifano was named head coach in 2015 and led the Gators to a No. 17 final ranking in the Collegiate Baseball Poll in 2019. His team went to the CCAA Tournament for the second year in a row, which was something the program hadn’t done since 2004. Prior to San Francisco State, Schifano was the recruiting coordinator at his alma mater UC Davis, where the 2008 squad earned a bid to the NCAA Regionals and ended the year with the most wins at UC Davis in its Division I era. He also spent five seasons in the high school ranks at Los Gatos High School. He had a successful playing career at UC Davis where he is a member of the Hall of Fame and his 1995 squad competed in the Division II World Series. He signed with the Marlins out of UC Davis and played in multiple organizations, getting up to Triple-A with the Astros in 2001.This episode is a deep dive into pressure offense, building upon Schifano's presentation from the Virtual ABCA Convention. We also discuss recruiting, the disappointment of San Francisco State not having a season in 2021, and his best memories of spending time with Augie Garrido. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Marc Polymeropoulos, Former CIA Agent and Baseball Dad

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:23:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is former CIA Agent Marc Polymeropoulos. He spent 26 years in the CIA before retiring from the Senior Intelligence Service in June 2019. His positions included field and headquarters operational assignments covering the Middle East, Europe, Eurasia and Counter Terrorism. Marc is the recipient of the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the Intelligence Commendation Medal and the Intelligence Medal of Merit. His Book Clarity in Crisis is available June 8. The book covers what he learned in his time in the CIA and has some phenomenal stories that anyone can use to help them become a better leader. Polymeropoulos is also a huge baseball fan and baseball parent. In this episode, we discuss being a baseball parent, his path to the CIA, his time outside the United States, how he would fix the current climate, parallels of leadership in the CIA and baseball, how to handle pressure and tips on how to not bring work home. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Gary Henderson of the University of Utah

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 May 2021 13:25:00 +0000

This week's ABCA Podcast features University of Utah associate head coach Gary Henderson. Henderson has a long and successful track record in coaching, starting at the high school level and from there moving on to San Diego State, Cal State Fullerton, Riverside Community College, Chapman, Pepperdine, Florida, Oregon State, Kentucky, Mississippi State and now Utah. If you were going to map out coaches to learn from it would be guys like Jim Dietz, Dennis Rogers, Larry Cochell, Mike Weathers, Andy Lopez, John Cohen and Bill Kinneberg. Henderson has had success at every stop along the way as an assistant and head coach. He was named the Collegiate Baseball National Assistant Coach of the Year in 1996, the Southeastern Conference Coach of the year in 2012 and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Coach of the Year in 2018. He is one of the brightest pitching minds we have in the game. In this episode we cover his path, what makes a great coaching staff, how to handle conflicts on your staff, program and pitching staff development and recruiting. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Matt White

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 24 May 2021 13:24:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Dr. Matt White, an orthopedic surgeon in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, specializing in elbows and shoulders. He earned his undergraduate degree at Notre Dame, went to medical school at Indiana University and finished his residency at Wisconsin. After his residency, Dr. White went to Birmingham for his fellowship at the American Sports Medicine Institute working with some of world’s best surgeons, including Dr. James Andrews. We cover a lot of ground in this episode on arm surgery and arm health. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Eric Crozier of the Potomac School and Mizuno Outlaws

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 17 May 2021 13:25:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we catch up with Eric Crozier, head coach at the Potomac School in Maryland and founder of the Mizuno Outlaws. Crozier grew up in Columbus, Ohio, played collegiately at Norfolk State and was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in 2000. He played pro baseball for 11 years and made his Major League Debut with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2004. He is one of our unique members who coaches at the high school level but also runs a facility and coaches travel baseball. This is a deep dive into differences in playing and coaching and also differences in coaching high school, training players in a facility and travel ball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Bonnie Hoffman, DC Girls Baseball coach and ABCA Diversity Committee member

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 10 May 2021 13:26:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Bonnie Hoffman, coach of DC Girls Baseball and member of the ABCA Diversity in Baseball Committee. Hoffman has spent a lifetime in the game of baseball. She had an opportunity to play in an all girls baseball league growing up in New York and later moved to the Washington D.C. area. After law school, Hoffman founded the Eastern Women’s Baseball Conference and pitched for over 20 years. DC Girls Baseball is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting girls' participation in baseball and fostering their love of the game. Hoffman was a Public Defender for 20 years, so she has a unique perspective on diversity. She currently is the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Director of Public Defense reform and training. This is a phenomenal episode on holistic coaching, servant leadership, youth practice planning, the DC Girls Baseball Club, nonprofits, fundraising tips, grant writing, differences and similarities of being a trial lawyer and coaching, and with her background as a Public Defender and Public Defense Reform we get into implicit biases as well. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dr. Joe LaPlaca, founder of Ares Elite Sports Vision

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 03 May 2021 13:26:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we have Dr. Joe LaPlaca, founder of Ares Elite Sports Vision. He did his undergraduate work at Marquette and has a Doctorate of Optometry degree from the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago. Dr. LaPlaca is an adjunct professor at Butler University and works with the Butler baseball team. He is also the Optometrist for the Final Four. Although all of us in the baseball industry understand how important vision is to the game, we are still on the ground floor of how to train that in our athletes. Dr. LaPlaca discusses several different topics here as it pertains to vision and performance. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Joel Pelland, head coach at Glenbard East and founder of Pelland Performance Consulting

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 15:27:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Joel Pelland, head coach at Glenbard East High School and founder of Pelland Performance Consulting. Pelland has the been the head baseball coach at Glenbard East in Illinois for the last 10 years and is the all-time winningest coach at the school. He played baseball at Central Michigan and is a certified John Maxwell Leadership trainer, PECI certified performance coach and an AFPA nutritional coach. He is also a board member for the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association. Pelland is a great presenter and is speaking on the Youth Stage for the 2022 ABCA Convention in Chicago. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Andrew Riddell, National Player Development Manager for Baseball Australia

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 15:28:00 +0000

This week's ABCA Podcast features Andrew Riddell, National Player Development Director for Baseball Australia. Riddell grew up in Sydney, Australia and picked up the game of baseball at 14 years old and fulfilled his dream of playing in the United States by cold emailing 200 schools. He ended up at Dodge City Community College and finished his undergraduate and master's degrees at Nebraska-Kearney. He interned with USA baseball after college, working with the top 80 18U players in the U.S. Riddell is now back in Australia overseeing the development and transition of their players from 16U to their pathway to college. In this episode, we discuss Riddell's time in the U.S., how they are setting up the National Player Development Program, preparing for the 2028 Olympics, how they are helping players get to colleges in the U.S. and Baseball Australia’s partnerships with the ABCA, Blast and Driveline. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Oregon State Senior Associate AD Kimya Massey and Richard Kanter, Founder of Kanter Legal

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 15:28:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast are Kimya Massey, Senior Associate Athletics Director at Oregon State, and Richard Kanter, Founder of Kanter Legal. Both are members of the ABCA Diversity in Baseball Committee. Massey has been an administrator at Oregon State since August 2015 and previously worked at Central Florida, Memphis, Indiana and Michigan State. He pitched collegiately at Michigan State in the late 1990s and received his Master’s in Sports Administration from Michigan State in 2004. Kanter has an extensive background in the Sports Agent Field. He had positions with University of Kentucky baseball and the Baltimore Orioles. He was a player agent for NBA and NFL players and also worked for the Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets. Kanter made a career switch from player agent to now representing college baseball coaches. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Tim Neiman, DeSales University, and sons Nolan and Doc

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 15:29:00 +0000

This week's ABCA Podcast features Tim, Nolan and Doc Neiman. Tim is entering his 32nd season as the head coach at DeSales University. Tim's sons Noland and Doc both played at DeSales and served as assistant coaches. Nolan is a 2005 DeSales graduate, has coached at every level of baseball and also scouted professionally with the Texas Rangers. He is the general Manager at Square Up Academy and head coach at Manatee High School. Doc is a 2011 DeSales graduate and is in his second season as head coach at Clarion University. Along with their experience in baseball as well as playing and coaching together, we also discuss the March 6 car accident that took the lives of current DeSales player Sean Hanczaryk, former Bulldog player Nick White and his girlfriend Emily Kattner. The crash left current player Brandon DiChiacchio in critical condition. Tim gives great advice on how to handle tragedy in your program. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Justine Siegal, founder of Baseball for All and former Oakland Athletics coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 15:30:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is Dr. Justine Siegal, founder of Baseball For All and the first woman to coach for a Major League Baseball organization. After earning her Ph.D. in Sports Psychology from Springfield College, Siegal became the first woman to coach with the Oakland A’s and to throw batting practice to an MLB team during Spring Training with the Cleveland Indians. In 2016, she served as Mental Performance Coach for Team Israel at the MLB World Baseball Classic Qualifier. She has also coached in Japan and Mexico. Currently, Siegal is a baseball consultant for the TV show A League of Their Own and is an advisor for the Mustard app with Dr. Tom House. Her jersey is now hanging in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Baseball For All is a non-profit organization that works toward gender equity in youth baseball by strongly encouraging and providing opportunities for girls to participate. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Hannah Huesman, Philadelphia Phillies Mental Skills Coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 15:32:00 +0000

This ABCA Podcast features Philadelphia Phillies Mental Skills Coach Hannah Huesman. She is a great example of the bright voices we have in the Peak Performance World and her Mental Sweat Mondays have provided a bright spot during the pandemic. Huesman was a dual sport athlete playing basketball and softball at UT Chattanooga and has her master's degree from UT Knoxville in Sports Psychology and Motor Behavior. Prior to working with the Phillies she worked with the Pittsburgh Pirates and also works with the New York City Fire Department. She has an extensive background in working with athletes, business people, health care workers, performing artists and first responders. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dai Dai Otaka, infielder for Johns Hopkins

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:32:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is current Johns Hopkins and former Yale University infielder Dai Dai Otaka. This is the first time we've interviewed a current player who is also an ABCA member. Otaka played high school ball at University of Detroit Jesuit and started his college career at Yale University with current Minnesota Twins Assistant Field Coordinator Tucker Frawley as an infield coach. Otaka is finishing up his playing career at Johns Hopkins University. At Ivy League Schools, graduate students have not been able to compete athletically, so you see a lot of impact grad transfers coming out of the Ivy League. This episode should be a resource for coaches on how to talk to players and is an example of how we can bridge the gap between the new and the old in today’s society. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Keith Guttin and Paul Evans, Missouri State

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 15:33:00 +0000

We catch up with Missouri State head coach Keith Guttin and assistant coach Paul Evans on this week's ABCA Podcast. Guttin is in his 43rd season with the Missouri State program as a player, assistant and head coach. He ranks 19th in NCAA Division I with 1,288 career wins in 38 seasons as head coach. Evans is in his 33rd season as an assistant at Missouri State after coaching at Shawnee Community College and Rend Lake Community College. In their 33 seasons together, they have had 127 players sign pro contracts, six first-round draft picks, 20 Major Leaguers, 19 regular season or conference tournament championships, 11 NCAA Regional appearances and a 2003 College World Series appearance. This is a great episode on staff longevity, how to handle disagreements as a staff, player development, recruiting, tips for coaches and a shared love for Missouri Valley Conference baseball. The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dr. Kellen Lee, San Francisco Giants Mental Skills Coach

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 15:33:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is San Francisco Giants Minor League Mental Skills Coach Dr. Kellen Lee. Dr. Lee has a diverse background having played baseball at the UC San Diego and independent baseball. Professionally, he has worked with teams and athletes from the NCAA Division I, II, III, high school, youth and professional levels. He also has experience in working with military personnel on how to handle the mental challenges of combat environments. He wrote his dissertation on Effects of Sport-Specific Mental Imagery on Collegiate Athletes Confidence after an Orthopedic Injury, which is particularly relevant this year as we have seen changes at the college and professional levels with stops and starts as well as shortened ramp-up time. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Trevor Burmeister, Colorado Rockies

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 15:34:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast, we have Colorado Rockies hitting coach Trevor Burmeister. Burmeister is entering his second season as hitting coach with the Colorado Rockies and was the 2019 ABCA/Baseball America Assistant Coach of the Year in NJCAA while at Madison College. Burmeister played at Madison and then UW-Lacrosse, before moving into the coaching ranks at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Burmeister also spent time on the Travel Baseball side, coaching with the GRB Rays, as well as the Collegiate Summer League level with the Madison Mallards. Burmeister has a bright future in the game as you will see from his detailed answers and information in this episode. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros, improving programs one facility at a time. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Chad Busick, owner of Championship Mindset

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 15:34:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is Chad Busick, owner of Championship Mindset. Busick is a master facilitator with Advance Sports Technology, working with college teams at the Division I, II, III and NAIA levels as well as high school and competitive teams across various sports. In addition, he is a certified trainer for the Power of Positive Leadership Training with the Jon Gordon Companies, is co-host of The Championship Mindset Podcast as well as the author of a new book, The Rock Tumbler. Busick hosted an ABCA webinar with Julie Nee, December 2, 2020, and they are hosting workshops on February 21 and 22. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

NCAA Div. I Preview with Mike Rooney, Vinnie Cervino, Teddy Cahill, Aaron Fitt and Kendall Rogers

American Baseball Coaches Association — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 15:35:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our NCAA Division I Preview. We have a stout line up of college baseball media members in this episode with Mike Rooney leading us off. After that, we hand it off to Vinnie Cervino from Perfect Game, Teddy Cahill from Baseball America and we finish it off with Aaron Fitt and Kendall Rogers from D1Baseball. As life long fans of college baseball, this is always an exciting time of the year and we're excited to finally be able to head to the ballpark again to watch some baseball. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

College Baseball Preview with Robbie Gutierrez, Woody Hunt, Brian Sakowski, Noah Sharp, Jordan Shusterman, Jake Mintz and Nick Herfordt

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 15:35:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our 2021 NAIA, Junior College, Division III and Division II preview. Robby Gutierrez from NAIA Ball and special guest Cumberland head coach Woody Hunt lead us off. After that, we kick it over to Brian Sakowski from Perfect Game and Noah Sharp from the JUCO Ball Blog to cover all things junior college baseball. Then we hand it over to Jordan Shusterman and Jake Mintz of Cespedes Family BBQ fame and the D3 Baseball Podcast to talk all things Division III. Finally we finish up with Nick Herfordt, Perfect Game’s Small College specialist, to preview the Division II and III seasons. This is one the best times of the year with seasons getting ready to start and some already beginning. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dr. Erik Korem, CEO and Founder of AIM7

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 15:36:00 +0000

Continuing our Foundations for Optimal Living theme for the ABCA Podcast, we speak with Dr. Erik Korem, CEO and Founder of AIM7. Korem played football at Texas A and M and has since traveled all over the world studying elite performance. He was in the NFL for 15 years as Sports Scientist and High Performance Director and more recently was Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Performance at William and Mary. We cover a lot of territory here in this episode on habit forming, self improvement and why sleep is important. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros, improving programs one facility at a time. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Dr. Jackie Buell Sport, Dietician for Ohio State Sports Medicine

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 15:37:00 +0000

This week we connect with Dr. Jackie Buell, Sport Dietician for Ohio State Sports Medicine and Consultant to the Department of Athletics. Dr. Buell's has a Ph.D. in Nutrition from Ohio State, a master's from the University of Arizona in Exercise Physiology and a bachelor's in Sports Medicine from Marietta. She was pivotal in starting the Food Innovation Center, which is an Ohio State University program to help feed the people in the state of Ohio. We tackle all things nutrition for coaches and players and have a speed round on supplements. She helps with some of the truths and myths around nutrition and supplements. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros, an official partner of the ABCA. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, BP screens, ball carts and more.

John Wagle, Kansas City Royals

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 15:38:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast is the Kansas City Royals Director of Performance Science and Player Development John Wagle. He enters his first year as Director after serving as the Royals Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator since 2019. Prior to joining the organization, he spent three years pursuing his PhD in Sport Physiology and Performance at East Tennessee State. He earned his Master’s in Exercise Science from Western Illinois, an MBA from Loyola and he played collegiately at Augustana College in the Quad Cities. He spent time as the Assistant Director of Sports Performance at Depaul University and coached at North Park and Dominican University. Having been both a coach and strength and conditioning coordinator, Wagle understands what both sides need and how to bridge the gap. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros.

China McCarney of Jaeger Sports and the Athletes Against Anxiety and Depression Foundation

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:38:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is, China McCarney, Vice President of Jaeger Sports founder of the Athletes Against Anxiety and Depression Foundation. McCarney has been with Jaeger Sports full time since 2012 and started the Athletes Against Anxiety and Depression Foundation in 2016 because of his own personal struggles with panic attacks, anxiety and depression. Their mission is dedicated to providing resources to anyone that suffers from a mental health battle. On this episode, we also dive into why all of this will help players be more successful and programs win more games. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros. Netting Pros specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens, ball carts and more.

ABCA Staff and Tim Corbin, Vanderbilt

American Baseball Coaches Association — Sun, 03 Jan 2021 15:39:00 +0000

Happy New Year and to the week of the ABCA Convention! The first part of this episode is with the ABCA staff. The second part is with Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin, a member of the ABCA Board of Directors and ABCA Hall of Fame. He has 753 wins as a head coach and two national championships in 18 seasons at Vanderbilt. This episode is sponsored by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals specializes in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, BP screens and ball carts.

Jerry Weinstein, Colorado Rockies

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 15:39:00 +0000

Next up on the ABCA Podcast is baseball coaching legend Jerry Weinstein, recipient of the 2021 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award. Weinstein is an ambassador for the game around the world and his resume reads like a wish list for any coach. He coached in a College World Series with Miami as an assistant coach and, as a head coach at Sacramento City College, won 831 games, 16 league titles, a national championship and had 213 players drafted, including 28 big leaguers. He has also coached in the Cape Cod League, coached with Team USA, and was the manager for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic. He is heading up the Catching Hot Stove at the Virtual ABCA Convention.

Lance Spigner and Ryan McGinnis, ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award recipients

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 15:40:00 +0000

This week's ABCA Podcast features ABCA Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award recipients Lance Spigner and Ryan McGinnis. Dave Keiltitz was the ABCA Executive Director from 1994-2014 and was longtime head baseball coach and later Athletic Director at Central Michigan University. Keilitz was inducted to the ABCA Hall of Fame in 1989. Spigner is first on this week's podcast. He is going into his second season with the brand new junior college program at University of Arkansas Rich Mountain following 28 very successful years at Horatio High School, where he won five state championships. The second half of the episode is with McGinnis, Athletic Director and head baseball coach at Kimberly High School in Wisconsin. McGinnis has 345 career victories and Kimberly has nine state tournament trips with two state championships.

Ryan Sienko, Los Angeles Dodgers Catching Coordinator

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 15:43:00 +0000

This week on the ABCA Podcast we hear from Los Angeles Dodgers Catching Coordinator Ryan Sienko, who is entering his third season in that position with the World Champions. Sienko will be joining the ABCA Convention Catching Hot Stove in January. He is also the founder of Catch and Throw. Prior to working with the Dodgers, Sienko was an associate scout for the Baltimore Orioles, Director of Operations for the National Pitching Association alongside Tom House and coached in the high school ranks. Sienko gives great advice on how to be patient in the development process as well as a look inside the Dodgers organization. Sienko joined the Dodgers in 2015 and was on the ground floor with the current management team.

Joel Mangrum, Cleveland Indians Pitching Coordinator

American Baseball Coaches Association — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 15:45:00 +0000

Cleveland Indians Pitching Coordinator Joel Mangrum joins us on this week's ABCA Podcast. He is entering his second season as the Indians' Pitching Coordinator, after two seasons as a pitching coaching the Arizona League, having gone from the college side to pro baseball in 2017. At the collegiate level, Mangrum coached at New Mexico State, Austin Peay, Milligan College and Hinds College. Mangrum will be attending the Virtual ABCA Convention and gives great insight about why coaches will want to attend the event. We run the gamut here on player development, developing relationships with players and more.