SluggerDad posted:
I mean here in California, where there are only 9 D3 programs total -- only 8 of them at all competitive, and only 3 or 4 of them regularly "nationally ranked"
ADVICE from a D3 Parent whose son is entering his senior season with three awesome years of playing the sport he loves already behind him: Keep your kids focused on the long-term goal. Use their baseball talents as a tool get them into the best academic college possible, rather than focusing on using college as a way to play baseball. If you keep the focus on STUDENT-athlete, there's a better chance of finding the right "fit" for a memorable college baseball experience. Most importantly, they'll walk away with a great education, a host of networking possibilities for being more well-rounded, wonderful memories, and hopefully a really great career!
** --- Enjoyed SluggerDad's "only 8 of them at all competitive..." remark. Seriously, I'm not at all offended - really 
Our D3 also has three seniors this year, and all three have played more innings than almost all their counterparts at other universities. All three have been on the conference leaderboards. And... each will walk away with a degree from a school ranked #1 in the World. What more could one ask for? Find the right fit for your kids, keeping them focused on the long-term!
Signed,
-- Parent from that 9th program ("competitive" is a relative term)
Wish you all the best this baseball season! It's going to be fun!