The picture we paint in the recruiting process is not one of a path of least resistance , it is a picture of how our experience serves as a “ vehicle for a better life ” for our young men . Our experience serves to challenge our young men and prepare them for life in and after baseball . They will be challenged athletically , academically , and socially during their time in a Golden Eagle uniform and we firmly believe that winning is a by-product of the behaviors we employ .
It is my hope that I was able to give you a peek behind the curtain as to what we look for and how we go about our business .
FINDING THE RIGHT FIT
Successful recruiting is about finding the right mutual fit . With every bit of pertinent information at our fingertips , there is little excuse to commit to the wrong fit . “ Fit ” reaches far beyond the ability to fill a specific on-field need , as I highlighted above .
We have established 3 cornerstones of our program : Graduate , Compete for Championships and Give Back to The Community . These cornerstones shape our organizational identity and although they seem no different than many other programs , our standards of accountability are not for everyone . When we are identifying prospects , we need to understand our motivations and the following 3 tips are suggestions on how to better define your own motivations through the recruiting process .
Academic Motivations :
What are your academic motivations ? Match your area of study with “ what you want to be when you grow up .” It is not uncommon to speak with a recruit who knows what he wants to do career wise , but is unsure of what academic program will provide the most “ long-term ” value in preparing you to separate yourself in the job market . Do your research to make sure the school you like can prepare your academically . Does the school offer graduate programs of interest or appropriate double major opportunities if you redshirt ? What type of academic enrichment opportunities exist ( internships , support , etc )? What kind of alumni network exists to plug you in to your desired field ? To what extent do the coaches care about your academic success ?
Athletic Motivations :
What are your athletic motivations ? Is the level more important that your development ? Many athletes value the Division I tag , but there are many Division II opportunities that provide similar resources with a better opportunity to compete in a championship environment .
Understand that where and for whom you play college baseball impacts more than the next 4-5 years of your life . Choose a coaching staff that will challenge you to be a better person for having decided to play there . Surrounding yourself with people who care about your personal development as much as your physical development is an investment in your future success . Properly vet the coaching staffs on their development plans . There are great coaches at every level of athletics and on field coaching styles vary . Find a staff that fits you as a player and you will enjoy your experience even more .