Skip to main content

Reply to "Pay It Forward Recruiting Advice from a 2019 Mom"

Used this website to gather thoughts and opinions from those who have been there before. Proved to be a valuable asset when taken in the proper perspective.

As mentioned before, each player’s journey is quite similar in spirit, but can be vastly different in detail.  Players who dream of playing at the next level should take time to really understand what it takes to not only get to the next level, but also stay at the next level!

Bigger, stronger, faster really has little to do with getting to the next level. Talent, attitude and perseverance are much more valuable in that pursuit.

Son is a 2019 and with Covid hitting, it has resulted in a wild and crazy ride for him and many others who played / are still playing college baseball. All the years of training and sacrifice could not have prepared anyone for the impact of Covid to the baseball community. Point being, your player’s path to the next level is not a straight one or well defined one so please do not anguish over it.

I have watched my son’s travel ball and high school teammates become fortunate enough to get the nod to the next level whether it be college or minor leagues only to watch them face the reality that their adolescent glory days level of success pales in comparison to the talent at the next level….consequently earning them a one way ticket back home to hang up their cleats for the last time.

If the sobering reality of talent at the next level does not impact your player, the daily workload will definitely be a force to recon with. Those who are “D1” or die players will truly understand how difficult life is at that level after a couple of week of being there. Morning workouts, classes (5 classes a semester is mandatory), mandatory study hall as a Freshman, homework work, practice, games, travel for games, team meetings/events all make even the most dedicated rethink their goals, dreams and desires. (Note: if sleep is important to your player, have them get as much as possible before leaving high school.)

Furthermore, I have watched MANY life long studs, beasts, and top 20 round draft picks who chose college over minor leagues, as well as, many average players reach a D1 level schools only to “Visit” it for the first semester.

Also, please know that just because your player has one of those coveted D1 scholarships, they are not even guaranteed a spot on the team let alone playing time. Watching Freshman high level players get cut after their first Fall season or not even play a single game in the Spring is sobering. By the way, if your player makes it to year two or three, they are not exempt from being cut…imagine that!

This post is not intended to be discouraging, more so, a guide to the realities that your player may face and should be as prepared to handle as much as he or she prepares their baseball skills.

Parents—encourage your player to go after their dreams and be as emotionally and financially supported as you can. The journey has many peaks and valleys, but when viewed from the proper perspective, it can be both exciting and a great learning experience for your player when he or she transitions into the women or man they are meant to be!

×
×
×
×