TxMom,
This is a great story and congrats to your son!
I am curious about what the agreement was going in. Did your son call up Texas Tech out of the blue and ask to try out? Had they seen him play before and were aware of his reputation? Did they contact his JUCO coaches or did they rely on his assertions? Exactly what did they promise him if anything? Merely a chance to tryout? Or was it more like "If you are the player we think you are, there is a good chance you can make our team."
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AP...
Apologize if I did not make this clear...
I am going to overstate this at the risk of being criticized to make my observation....but in my twisted way of there are two types of stories..."Blue chips" who are getting multiple offers July 1, have a wide choice of rectuiting trips, and many choices on signing day. This is great. All the more power to these. I had an early sign. I mean no disrespect.
But I am on the recruting trail weekly talking to the large # of the "Non Blues" who are wondering why they are not getting all that attention and wondering why they are struggling so hard when they are hearing all these stories of instant success.
IMO...We hear many blue chip stories, IMO not so many, or enough of those "NonBlues" who struggle thought the process, past November, into April and the second signing period and then into walk-on status.
My post was intended to celebrate a young man who went far beyond the norm to reach his goal.
SO...you and I are in complete agreement.
Sorry if I appeared to hard on anyone, rather my intention was to remind that this story offers another viewpoint, one that we often overlook.
In the end I am not yet sold that most will take the tride and true methods. While I am in complete agreement that most will try and want to take that path, it may not be open to them.
Just looked at a listing of the '05 class at one of CA's best showcases. Of those 90 players 3 got drafted, perhaps 30 went to NCAA schools. DI, DII, DII. The rest will be taking non-traditional methods.
AP...
Apologize if I did not make this clear...
I am going to overstate this at the risk of being criticized to make my observation....but in my twisted way of there are two types of stories..."Blue chips" who are getting multiple offers July 1, have a wide choice of rectuiting trips, and many choices on signing day. This is great. All the more power to these. I had an early sign. I mean no disrespect.
But I am on the recruting trail weekly talking to the large # of the "Non Blues" who are wondering why they are not getting all that attention and wondering why they are struggling so hard when they are hearing all these stories of instant success.
IMO...We hear many blue chip stories, IMO not so many, or enough of those "NonBlues" who struggle thought the process, past November, into April and the second signing period and then into walk-on status.
My post was intended to celebrate a young man who went far beyond the norm to reach his goal.
SO...you and I are in complete agreement.
Sorry if I appeared to hard on anyone, rather my intention was to remind that this story offers another viewpoint, one that we often overlook.
In the end I am not yet sold that most will take the tride and true methods. While I am in complete agreement that most will try and want to take that path, it may not be open to them.
Just looked at a listing of the '05 class at one of CA's best showcases. Of those 90 players 3 got drafted, perhaps 30 went to NCAA schools. DI, DII, DII. The rest will be taking non-traditional methods.
ClevelandDad...
His JUCO coach called first (at our son's request) and then our son followed up with a call. One coach had seen him pitch before his surgery. They made him feel welcome, but promised nothing. Our son knew it would be hard from the onset, but still wanted to try. The truth is that his parents are more afraid of the odds than he is.
The one thing I’ve learned about baseball at the higher levels is that success is never easy…for anyone. Even the Blue Chip player faces a huge set of challenges. As much as we want to protect our sons from struggle, the simple truth is that we can’t. The older I get the more I realize that’s a good thing.
His JUCO coach called first (at our son's request) and then our son followed up with a call. One coach had seen him pitch before his surgery. They made him feel welcome, but promised nothing. Our son knew it would be hard from the onset, but still wanted to try. The truth is that his parents are more afraid of the odds than he is.
The one thing I’ve learned about baseball at the higher levels is that success is never easy…for anyone. Even the Blue Chip player faces a huge set of challenges. As much as we want to protect our sons from struggle, the simple truth is that we can’t. The older I get the more I realize that’s a good thing.
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TxMom...bravo.
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TxMom...bravo.
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observer44
Based on your description of blue chippers I would have to think the vast majority of the folks who come to this site for advise fall into that category.
Based on your description of blue chippers I would have to think the vast majority of the folks who come to this site for advise fall into that category.
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AP...
Based on what I am seeing on the recruitng trail, there are large numbers of hungry non-blues crying for information. I would hope that they feel free and encouraged to participate as well.
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AP...
Based on what I am seeing on the recruitng trail, there are large numbers of hungry non-blues crying for information. I would hope that they feel free and encouraged to participate as well.
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I too hope that all HS Baseball players who hope to play past high school (and their parents) will find this a useful place to visit. I have no idea if my 08 will end up a blue chipper or not - but am findng this a great place to come and get smarter about baseball in HS and beyond.
I would actually argue that the non blue chippers need this site more than the blue chippers. Players who make the baseball america lists have lots of choices - and lots of people who are happy to help them make those choices. Other players may still want to continue on - and sites like this may help them to do so.
I would actually argue that the non blue chippers need this site more than the blue chippers. Players who make the baseball america lists have lots of choices - and lots of people who are happy to help them make those choices. Other players may still want to continue on - and sites like this may help them to do so.
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08...agreed. In my experience the Blues most often know the system the non-blues are less sure and need more help. I hope we here can offer that help.
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08...agreed. In my experience the Blues most often know the system the non-blues are less sure and need more help. I hope we here can offer that help.
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Sorry, after I reread my post I realize I made a mistake. What I meant to say was"
based on your description of blue chippers I would have to think the vast majority of the folks who come to this site for advise DO NOT fall into that category.
Sorry for the confusion.
based on your description of blue chippers I would have to think the vast majority of the folks who come to this site for advise DO NOT fall into that category.
Sorry for the confusion.
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AP....No problem....respected your opinion either way.
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AP....No problem....respected your opinion either way.
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I personally think the blue chippers need this site every bit as much as the non-blue chippers.
The non-blue chippers need the site to help them find a place to play. They need help learning about the tried and true methods that have worked for others. They also need help finding not so tried and true options available as well.
The blue chippers may have more options available to them, but that in itself can be massively confusing. It might sound like a great situation to be in (and yes, it is) but it has it's own set of pitfalls. Learning about selecting agents may seem more prestigious, but it is every bit as much stressful.
That is why I have always enjoyed this site so much. There is advise for kids at all levels of talent.
The non-blue chippers need the site to help them find a place to play. They need help learning about the tried and true methods that have worked for others. They also need help finding not so tried and true options available as well.
The blue chippers may have more options available to them, but that in itself can be massively confusing. It might sound like a great situation to be in (and yes, it is) but it has it's own set of pitfalls. Learning about selecting agents may seem more prestigious, but it is every bit as much stressful.
That is why I have always enjoyed this site so much. There is advise for kids at all levels of talent.
APARENT
I agree--in many cases the more offers a kid has the more confused he can get--regardless of a players talent levels the road remains the same-- somewhat confusing with a bump every now and then
I agree--in many cases the more offers a kid has the more confused he can get--regardless of a players talent levels the road remains the same-- somewhat confusing with a bump every now and then
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Agreed. Every rose has it's thorns....
On the other hand...as our high school coach said last year when I commented on how much talent he had on the team and how difficult it might be to decide on starting roles..."Heck this is easy. I'm much rather have too many talented players and not enough positions than the other way around."
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Agreed. Every rose has it's thorns....
On the other hand...as our high school coach said last year when I commented on how much talent he had on the team and how difficult it might be to decide on starting roles..."Heck this is easy. I'm much rather have too many talented players and not enough positions than the other way around."
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My son was what Observer44 might term as a "blue". I thought he was referring to umpires.
Don't ever think for a "blue chipper" the process is any less difficult or frustrating. Actually, it was quite stressful.
TR is correct recruiting has it's ups and downs and bumps, no matter who you are.
TxMom,
Congratulations to you and your son.
Don't ever think for a "blue chipper" the process is any less difficult or frustrating. Actually, it was quite stressful.
TR is correct recruiting has it's ups and downs and bumps, no matter who you are.
TxMom,
Congratulations to you and your son.
First, this has been an excellent website to learn about life after high school baseball.
My son who is an 06 outfielder is not a "blue chip" recruit but has had many phone contacts with DIII schools and a few D1 schools.
One of the D1 schools has referred to both the "invited walk-on" and "guaranteed roster spot". The difference as explained by the coach is that an invited walk-on means that you will be evaluated during the fall period to see if they want to keep you but a guaranteed roster spot means that you have made the team without scholarship money your first year.
My son most likely will not be an early signee and will have sometime yet to make a decision. I have streessed to him the importance of getting the best education possible (playing baseball ends for everyone at one time or another) and making sure that if you suffered a career ending injury would you be happy at the school you are at?
If he can focus on these first and baseball second I think he will make a good decision no matter where he ends up.
My son who is an 06 outfielder is not a "blue chip" recruit but has had many phone contacts with DIII schools and a few D1 schools.
One of the D1 schools has referred to both the "invited walk-on" and "guaranteed roster spot". The difference as explained by the coach is that an invited walk-on means that you will be evaluated during the fall period to see if they want to keep you but a guaranteed roster spot means that you have made the team without scholarship money your first year.
My son most likely will not be an early signee and will have sometime yet to make a decision. I have streessed to him the importance of getting the best education possible (playing baseball ends for everyone at one time or another) and making sure that if you suffered a career ending injury would you be happy at the school you are at?
If he can focus on these first and baseball second I think he will make a good decision no matter where he ends up.
Roundingthird....you said it right.....academics first.....good luck to your '06......
quote:My son most likely will not be an early signee and will have sometime yet to make a decision. I have streessed to him the importance of getting the best education possible (playing baseball ends for everyone at one time or another) and making sure that if you suffered a career ending injury would you be happy at the school you are at?
I think most every parent will agree this is the ideal focus. I will admit, in retrospect, however, that once my son identified schools with strong academics, he clearly made his decision based on baseball. Those factors included the interest of the coach and strong committments about playing time. He ended up getting the best of both in large part due to a college coach who followed through/exceeded every committment he made and a university who's academics/faculty are as advertised. While my son may have been lucky, I make this post solely to reinforce that if your son has a "passion" about baseball, I think it is perfectly fine to have that be an important factor to consider in the choice of schools.
We really struggled with our oldest in the college selection process. As teachers, we felt academics should be the first consideration. About half way into his senior year, however, we realized that was not his first consideration. He made his college selection based solely on baseball. Despite our reservations, we felt it was his choice to make and baseball has turned out to a great career for him so far.
Our second son made his selection out of high school based on the baseball program, too. He went the JUCO route and transferred upon graduation to a D1 based on a degree plan first and then baseball. Had he made his selection based on academics out of high school he would not have been able to pursue his current degree plan at any of the D1's that recruited him.
I guess my point is that every kid has to be allowed to follow their hearts when making their college selection. For some it may be baseball...at least out of high school... for others it may be a certain degree plan, and for others it will be both. The biggest mistake we made with our first was putting pressure on him to make a selection that would last 4 years. When you throw baseball into the mix, that's hard ...too hard IMHO for most 18 year olds.
Our second son made his selection out of high school based on the baseball program, too. He went the JUCO route and transferred upon graduation to a D1 based on a degree plan first and then baseball. Had he made his selection based on academics out of high school he would not have been able to pursue his current degree plan at any of the D1's that recruited him.
I guess my point is that every kid has to be allowed to follow their hearts when making their college selection. For some it may be baseball...at least out of high school... for others it may be a certain degree plan, and for others it will be both. The biggest mistake we made with our first was putting pressure on him to make a selection that would last 4 years. When you throw baseball into the mix, that's hard ...too hard IMHO for most 18 year olds.
quote:my point is that every kid has to be allowed to follow their hearts when making their college selection. For some it may be baseball...at least out of high school, for others it may be a certain degree plan, and for others it will be both. The biggest mistake we made with our first was putting pressure on him to make a decision that would need to last 4 years. When you throw baseball into the mix, that's hard ...too hard IMHO
Nice post, TxMom.
You are right TXMom about throwing baseball into the mix making things very complicated.
My son wants to play baseball in college but what I was trying to say is that because there are so many uncertainties associated with collegiate sports, like in all of life, a sound decision regarding your education is the best place to start.
It seems that many young men and their parents get caught up very quickly in the "ego boost" that recruiting provides and that they may compromise a quality education along the way. It is nice to read about all of the players and parents that have made their own decisions and things have worked out great. You don't read to often on this site about the reality of players who went to schools that they normally would not have if it were not for sports and things simply did not work out for one of a million possible reasons.
I certainly want my son to follow his dreams of playing collegiate baseball but also realize that he has a long and hopefully gratifying life/career ahead of him when he is done with baseball and a quality education is where that all begins.
My son wants to play baseball in college but what I was trying to say is that because there are so many uncertainties associated with collegiate sports, like in all of life, a sound decision regarding your education is the best place to start.
It seems that many young men and their parents get caught up very quickly in the "ego boost" that recruiting provides and that they may compromise a quality education along the way. It is nice to read about all of the players and parents that have made their own decisions and things have worked out great. You don't read to often on this site about the reality of players who went to schools that they normally would not have if it were not for sports and things simply did not work out for one of a million possible reasons.
I certainly want my son to follow his dreams of playing collegiate baseball but also realize that he has a long and hopefully gratifying life/career ahead of him when he is done with baseball and a quality education is where that all begins.
Roundingthird...
It's so hard to know what to hold on to when your son is making these decisions. I've been there and know what you're going through. I know that we, like you, valued education over anything. Baseball does eventually end for everyone ...even Barry Bonds.
However, I honestly don't feel that any college decision can be a mistake if it's what the kid wants to do...even if things "don't work out." Life is a journey and your son, at 18, is just beginning his. All of his experiences will factor into the twists and turns his life will take.
I really believe that God has a plan for our sons' lives and we need to get out of the way and let Him speak to our kids. If that means they go to a college for athletics and later change schools, that might all be part of the plan in their growth and development.
I clearly remember how frightening the college selection process was for us the first time through. I desparately wanted to be the best "guide" for our son. In the end, however, God did a much better job than I ever could have done.
It's so hard to know what to hold on to when your son is making these decisions. I've been there and know what you're going through. I know that we, like you, valued education over anything. Baseball does eventually end for everyone ...even Barry Bonds.
However, I honestly don't feel that any college decision can be a mistake if it's what the kid wants to do...even if things "don't work out." Life is a journey and your son, at 18, is just beginning his. All of his experiences will factor into the twists and turns his life will take.
I really believe that God has a plan for our sons' lives and we need to get out of the way and let Him speak to our kids. If that means they go to a college for athletics and later change schools, that might all be part of the plan in their growth and development.
I clearly remember how frightening the college selection process was for us the first time through. I desparately wanted to be the best "guide" for our son. In the end, however, God did a much better job than I ever could have done.
quote:It seems that many young men and their parents get caught up very quickly in the "ego boost" that recruiting provides and that they may compromise a quality education along the way.
AND there are those that say players should NOT give up their dream of playing baseball because of academics. As TXMom say there is really no down side to either. Most parents would be more apt to hang their son's baseball awards on the wall than his college degree.
Fungo
rndg3rd,
a few thoughts about your situation as you describe it -
if there is interest and it's just not "blowing you away" yet, there will be a temptation to get it over with and accept an offer you're not really thrilled about just to get locked in for early signing - DON"T DO IT!
things really change in the spring for most in your position - hs grades, injuries and the draft all have a snowball effect
if you are getting polite interest and basicly walk-on or books offers, things can only get better, and it's to a schools adavantage, not yours to get you to commit for book $ - tho as a walk-on no commitment would be necessary
also the "academics consideration" position must have been mass emailed to everyone but me (and txmom & fungo?)
my son sorted his college list on baseball programs period -
he assumed then that the colleges recruiting him "ALL" held classes teaching math, science and the other "stuff" he would be forced to learn around his baseball - I'll probably catch some grief for saying that, but, oh well
if a kid is going to college to play baseball & get educated, why not chose the best baseball situation available?
hope that helps
good luck
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a few thoughts about your situation as you describe it -
if there is interest and it's just not "blowing you away" yet, there will be a temptation to get it over with and accept an offer you're not really thrilled about just to get locked in for early signing - DON"T DO IT!
things really change in the spring for most in your position - hs grades, injuries and the draft all have a snowball effect
if you are getting polite interest and basicly walk-on or books offers, things can only get better, and it's to a schools adavantage, not yours to get you to commit for book $ - tho as a walk-on no commitment would be necessary
also the "academics consideration" position must have been mass emailed to everyone but me (and txmom & fungo?)
my son sorted his college list on baseball programs period -
he assumed then that the colleges recruiting him "ALL" held classes teaching math, science and the other "stuff" he would be forced to learn around his baseball - I'll probably catch some grief for saying that, but, oh well
if a kid is going to college to play baseball & get educated, why not chose the best baseball situation available?
hope that helps
good luck
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Classic posts today TxMom
PS
One of the hardest things we've had to do was swallow our pride and let our youngest son, who was recruited by some of the top academic schools in the nation, attend a JUCO for their baseball program. He struggled with injuries for the entire 2 years, but LOVED being a part of their program. He left with a 4.0 GPA, a ton of wonderful life experiences, and many invaluable connections and resources. He misses the place terribly, but is ready for the next challenge...confident that everything happens for a reason.
One of the hardest things we've had to do was swallow our pride and let our youngest son, who was recruited by some of the top academic schools in the nation, attend a JUCO for their baseball program. He struggled with injuries for the entire 2 years, but LOVED being a part of their program. He left with a 4.0 GPA, a ton of wonderful life experiences, and many invaluable connections and resources. He misses the place terribly, but is ready for the next challenge...confident that everything happens for a reason.
All of the posts have been well thought out and appreciated.
quote:Originally posted by Bee>:
he assumed then that the colleges recruiting him "ALL" held classes teaching math, science and the other "stuff" he would be forced to learn around his baseball - I'll probably catch some greif for saying that, but, oh wel
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Bee - another poster here shared those same thoughts with me last spring. We looked at the schools recruiting him and started with the baseball fit first. Then we looked at the other things -academics, costs, location and went from there. Academics played a major part in making a choice of JUCO, but we looked at the baseball fit first. Baseball was my son's motivation in HS and I felt it would have a place in college as well. Nothing wrong with your route IMO. Baseball helping to get a college education - works for me!
One other thing, does the late signing period in April have a start and end date like the early period in November and if the amatuer draft is held in June do that many college coaches know by April how many players from their team will get drafted?
I know it is still early and many doors will open while others close before any decision is made. To make matters more confusing he received a football recruiting phone call last week.
I better tighten my seat belt for this wild ride.
I know it is still early and many doors will open while others close before any decision is made. To make matters more confusing he received a football recruiting phone call last week.
I better tighten my seat belt for this wild ride.
RoundingThird - the college signing period goes right on through the summer. College Coaches will have an idea of what kids will be drafted. They may also have an IDEA of who will sign as far as the draft, but no way to know for sure. There are kids signed right up until school starts in the fall - not that I'm advocating that route! 
While I thought the recruiting process was one of the most stressful things we ever went through, in looking back there were many blessings attached as well. You and son will meet many people that you never would have otherwise. Those road trips and conversations with son are also priceless memories now - very thankful for them! Good luck!
While I thought the recruiting process was one of the most stressful things we ever went through, in looking back there were many blessings attached as well. You and son will meet many people that you never would have otherwise. Those road trips and conversations with son are also priceless memories now - very thankful for them! Good luck!
quote:If that means they go to a college for athletics and later change schools, that might all be part of the plan in their growth and development. I don't view that as a failure anymore.
Flying along their just observing and caught that first jewel, bringing a tear to my lonely eyes.......
Open mine eyes that I may seee....
Glimpses of what thou hast for me......
Oh, lawd, glory be!
AND THEN BROTHER BEE from all the places on earth but OHIO brings forth a most powerful message....
quote:he assumed then that the colleges recruiting him "ALL" held classes teaching math, science and the other "stuff" he would be forced to learn around his baseball
Surely the lawd must be watching the playoff game tonight...............
Almost make you want to get off the couch and sing................
Bee and Fungo,
You guys are funnyyyyyyyyy!
Being through the recruiting process, I know just how difficult it can be. You all might be surprised to know that it is just as frustrating for the recruiting coach as well.
Player is average student, very good player, qualifies for D1 school. Receives many letters of interest. It becomes quite exciting.
College recruiter sees the player at a showcase and gets quite excited, he feels this player may be able to play and make an impact on his team.
Many weeks later the coach finally receives an official transcript. As excited as he was about recruiting this player, he sadly realizes that the player, though he has good grades, would be unable to keep up with the demands of the program AND all the other "stuff" at school (like math and science, etc.).
The player who was now receiving many letters because he attended a showcase and did very well, sees the interest is slowing down. It becomes very disappointing. It has nothing to do with their height, lack of 90+ velocity or not being a 400 hitter. It has to do with grades.
I do not believe that one's decision should be based around the baseball program but rather around the area of academics first, baseball second. I have stated that before. After talking about it this weekend with son's coach, I have not changed my thinking.
I admire the parent and player who realize that going to college is for an education, the dream of continuing the game as a bonus.
One should never give up the dream of playing college ball, but be realistic in the possibility that a particular program may be where he wants to play, but not necessarily the best academic opportunity.
Sorry to have gotten off of the subject.
You guys are funnyyyyyyyyy!
Being through the recruiting process, I know just how difficult it can be. You all might be surprised to know that it is just as frustrating for the recruiting coach as well.
Player is average student, very good player, qualifies for D1 school. Receives many letters of interest. It becomes quite exciting.
College recruiter sees the player at a showcase and gets quite excited, he feels this player may be able to play and make an impact on his team.
Many weeks later the coach finally receives an official transcript. As excited as he was about recruiting this player, he sadly realizes that the player, though he has good grades, would be unable to keep up with the demands of the program AND all the other "stuff" at school (like math and science, etc.).
The player who was now receiving many letters because he attended a showcase and did very well, sees the interest is slowing down. It becomes very disappointing. It has nothing to do with their height, lack of 90+ velocity or not being a 400 hitter. It has to do with grades.
I do not believe that one's decision should be based around the baseball program but rather around the area of academics first, baseball second. I have stated that before. After talking about it this weekend with son's coach, I have not changed my thinking.
I admire the parent and player who realize that going to college is for an education, the dream of continuing the game as a bonus.
One should never give up the dream of playing college ball, but be realistic in the possibility that a particular program may be where he wants to play, but not necessarily the best academic opportunity.
Sorry to have gotten off of the subject.
quote:by TPM - I admire the parent and player who realize that going to college is for an education, the dream of continuing the game as a bonus.
by definition ALL colleges provide an education, if I'm wrong about that, please list those that don't
there are some fine schools with baseball programs that struggle, or are in turmoil, or not well supported and hanging by a thread
you're welcome to recomend a situation like that - -
but, given a choice, I'd suggest one with the best quality baseball program that a player can get into which still meets his academic requirements
quote:by FO - I admire the parent and player who realize that going to college is for the dream of continuing the game and the education as a bonus.
We have taken the academic aspect to heart---we not only give the coaches at our showcases the players GPA and SAT/ACT scores but list the players intended major as well.
I agree with Bee. If you want it, you can get an education at any school. Going to the (insert your best academic school here)doesn’t guarantee an education. You’ve still got to do the work.
I’m listed as an “old timer”, however, unfortunately not old enough to have found out about the HSBBW before I did. The “old timer’s” know my son’s story, but suffice it to say had he been recruited by a top tier baseball school, he would not be where he is today.
That said, I believe things happen for a reason. He’s gone places and done things he never would have had things been different, and thus no looking back to a woulda, coulda, shoulda. It will just make you old! That’s why everyone says, “DO YOUR HOMEWORK”!
I wish everyone the best on their decisions.
I’m listed as an “old timer”, however, unfortunately not old enough to have found out about the HSBBW before I did. The “old timer’s” know my son’s story, but suffice it to say had he been recruited by a top tier baseball school, he would not be where he is today.
That said, I believe things happen for a reason. He’s gone places and done things he never would have had things been different, and thus no looking back to a woulda, coulda, shoulda. It will just make you old! That’s why everyone says, “DO YOUR HOMEWORK”!
I wish everyone the best on their decisions.
TR,
Everyone lists the GPA/SAT, funny thing is, it's not official until they get the official transcript. Things change after that.
Quoted by BEE:
but, given a choice, I'd suggest one with the best quality baseball program that a player can get into which still meets his academic requirements.
Correct, not arguing that point. However, you better know that if you don't meet the educational requirements, which in some schools are more than general math and earth science on your transcript, in some colleges you're not going to make it academically. Coaches know this, they sometimes have a tendency not necessarily to go with the best player, but the one who has potential and will not struggle in school.
by FO - I admire the parent and player who realize that going to college is for the dream of continuing the game and the education as a bonus.
You don't make the requirements, you ain't gonna play.
For many coaches, if you are not hovering around HIS GPA (forget what the NCAA says), you don't play.
Everyone lists the GPA/SAT, funny thing is, it's not official until they get the official transcript. Things change after that.
Quoted by BEE:
but, given a choice, I'd suggest one with the best quality baseball program that a player can get into which still meets his academic requirements.
Correct, not arguing that point. However, you better know that if you don't meet the educational requirements, which in some schools are more than general math and earth science on your transcript, in some colleges you're not going to make it academically. Coaches know this, they sometimes have a tendency not necessarily to go with the best player, but the one who has potential and will not struggle in school.
by FO - I admire the parent and player who realize that going to college is for the dream of continuing the game and the education as a bonus.
You don't make the requirements, you ain't gonna play.
For many coaches, if you are not hovering around HIS GPA (forget what the NCAA says), you don't play.
IMHO "the best academic opportunity" is very subjective.
I personally was disappointed in the type of instruction our #1 son received in core classes at a UT system D1 noted for its high academic standards...and were pleasantly surprised at the quality of instruction our #2 son received in the small classes at his JUCO.
I personally was disappointed in the type of instruction our #1 son received in core classes at a UT system D1 noted for its high academic standards...and were pleasantly surprised at the quality of instruction our #2 son received in the small classes at his JUCO.
quote:We were pleasantly surprised at the quality of instruction our #2 son received in the small classes at his JUCO.
I share that minority opinion with you TXMom.
There is a broad opinion that JUCO baseball and academics are simply inferior to the large schools.
Sometimes we do hear that education is what the student makes of it.
I attended a JUCO, my son did not, didn't make much of my education, (especially English), but my JUCO history class had Washington crossing the Delaware in the wrong direction while the English crossed the Pacific and not the Atlantic.
But, in the real world, it seems that most of what I learned in JUCO history was similar to what actually happened............
However, Economics, at Texas Tech, is not the same subject at Niagra or St. Anselm.
And, so far, my son remains academically eligible...........with the help of a solid B in a JUCO summer semester history class ( and is where I learned the proper direction of Washington's Delaware Crossing and the English came across the Atlantic....sad that I have been confused all these years)
TPM
Up this way not everyone lists that info not have I seen it listed in many events I have attended out of our area
And transcripts are not official until the player graduates
Up this way not everyone lists that info not have I seen it listed in many events I have attended out of our area
And transcripts are not official until the player graduates