A common HSBBW question is 'does video work'? I can say 'absolutely'.
I'm in Korea, no less, and video has worked for us. My older son had a lot of interest based on video alone; skills which were later confirmed in person at a showcase. Even without the showcase, though, he had offers.
My rising senior is now 'in the game' and, based on video alone, is getting even more interest than his brother did, ranging from California JCs to DIII to NAIA. The DI coaches we've contacted are definitely more reserved, but not without a clear 'hmmmm, could be interesting' vibe in their feedback. He'll get to throw for some of them this summer.
Video. Wihtout it, we would never have gotten anywhere with either boy.
And it doesn't need to be fancy. Our videos have been shot off of porta-mounds, and at thrashed Korean ballfields surrounded by barbed wire and hi-rises. It doesn't matter.
WRITING SKILLS and a flair for marketing are also important. I would guess my boys have learned more about writing from my assisting them through their initial coach letters and replies than in any HS writing class. They learn how to write respectfully, correctly, and with a dash of old Barnum thrown in (but not too much).
Folks, it can be done, and be done from anywhere. Obviously skill trumps all, but to get that skill seen and evaluated properly, amidst a sea of as-talented and more-talented competition, does work.
Only two kids have come out of this overseas American high school into college ball (assuming based on what we've received so far for the younger - a couple of firm 'he'll contribute right away here' responses - that he'll play collegiate). Both are mine. I have tried to help a couple of others, but they have ignored my advice - advice gained from eight years on the HSBBW and a lot of research. I tried!
Skill + Video + Cogent Writing Skills = success, even if you can't be seen in person in many, many cases.
Go for it.
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