DP Q&A: Stuart Lake

Charleston Southern skipper Stuart Lake has had an extensive career in multiple stops and has worked for, with and against some of the top coaches in the profession. This baseball coach has seen quite a few things in the sport but, as you will see, is far more than just a coach, his love of people and family is clear. Enjoy getting to know a treasure that has not forgotten his roots! DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? SL-This will be my 21st season. 18th in college and 8th as a head coach DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a college baseball coach? SL-No question watching the development of the student – athlete on and off the field  DP-What does the term “coach” mean to you?  SL-Coach to me means to be an example at all times and be there for the players and assistant coaches at all times.   DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession?  SL-How much time coaches dedicate to recruiting players and how close our relationships become with players and families. DP-You came to Charleston Southern as a highly-decorated recruiting guy in multiple places. What type of adjustments have you had to make in returning to your alma mater?  SL-Eight years ago I made our goal to recruit heavily our state and surrounding states so that we could involve our players families. I wanted to build family first here at CSU! CSU is a special place to me as an alumni so I knew what kind of person we wanted here! DP-You’ve been to Omaha and had success. What is that experience like?  SL-I still remember the final out in the Super regional to beat Miami and the dogpile like yesterday. Then to see Coach Tanner’s face the day we got to Rosenblatt, I will never forget. DP-Family is…          SL-…the people who will love and support you when you are at your worst and not need anything when you are at your best except to see you happy! DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? SL-I didn’t want to do anything else and my wife and family supported me so much! Being in a dugout is the greatest place to be for me. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family?  SL-No way to do it. Thank my wife and son a lot and make sure they are involved as often as possible. DP-When you hear the expression “old school baseball”, what does that phrase mean to you?  SL-Means not taking anything for granted. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?   SL-High school coach – winning a state championship as an assisant for Coach Assey at Brookland-Cayce College – going to Omaha DP-Quite a few rules have changed the recruiting game over the past 10 years. Which rule changes do you like, not like and how has it altered your approach to recruiting? SL-Removing the restrictions on communication changes have been nice. DP-How has using and monitoring social media changed your job? SL-Using has allowed for quicker and broader reach to alumni and recruits. Monitoring has been very stressful. DP-How has coaching/recruiting changed in the past 10 years? SL-The biggest change has been increased social media and increase of games played by prospects. DP-What is your greatest pet peeve in life? During games? In practice? SL-People being late and unprepared when arriving. Our program mantra is “Accountable Urgency” in all that we do. DP-Please list the top 3 selling points of your school? Your baseball program? SL-Charleston Southern University 1.    Christian environment 2.    Excellent education 3.    In Charleston Charleston Southern Baseball we have three goals to enhance for each player. 1.    Academics 2.    Athletically 3.    Spiritually  DP-We are often asked what a college coach is looking for. Can you answer that question in just a few sentences? SL-We are constantly looking for players with talent that want to compete at a Division 1 level. That requires a lot on and off the field. Plus, they must be a fit for our program and school. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why?  SL-Coach Tanner who showed me how hard you must work to succeed. DP-If you were not a baseball coach, what would your occupation be? High school teacher and coach DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against?  SL- 1.    Cliff Lee 2.    Michael Johnson 3.    Justin Smoak DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? SL-To me means to be there at all times for your teammate and hold each other accountable DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what?  SL-To eat sunflower seeds during the game    DP-What is your greatest high school thrill?  SL-I had so many in baseball and football it is hard to say. But the friendships and experiences mean the most to me DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school?  SL-Wedding Day – Hayden being born – Getting a coaching job DP-What accomplishment are you most proud of? SL-Husband/Father; College graduate with a Masters Degree DP-What are your strengths/weaknesses as a coach? As a person? SL-Mine are the same for both. Strengths are being prepared and being resilient. Weakness is probably enjoying things enough. DP-I wish I had more time for… SL-Fishing and being at home in Stoney Hill (Prosperity) DP-Who were the three best players you played against?  SL- 1.    Brian Williams  – USC 2.    Pokey Reese    – LOWER RICHLAND HS 3.    Joey Hamilton  – GEORGIA SOUTHERN DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a person and why? SL-My Parents and Grandparents DP-What MLB feat in history do you wish you’d been inside the stadium to witness and why?  SL-Pete Rose getting his 4192 hit! I was watching …

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DP Q&A: Kevin Schnall

Kevin Schnall has returned to the Palmetto State and his alma mater, this time to stay at Coastal Carolina has the Associate Head Coach. A standout player at CCU, Schnall rose to prominance as a relentless recruiter there while the Chanticleers became a national power. In his Q&A, the former catcher discusses his time at Central Florida, everything family-related and so much more. Get to know Kevin Schnall now: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? KS-This spring will be my 16th season coaching college baseball. It’s truly an honor and a privilege to work in a positive college environment where everyone cares about improving the lives of terrific student-athletes. The reason I chose the coaching profession evolves from being coached by passionate mentors which begins with my father. To this day, I often reflect back to my Little League experience and my ventures thru HS, College and Pro baseball.  DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a college baseball coach?  KS-The opportunity/ability to impact the lives of young adults like so many former coaches did for me. DP-What does the term “coach” mean to you? KS-Coach to me is a person who teaches, motivates, and leads by example. A coach is someone who can develop a culture where their players think they are capable of doing anything. This is a game of adversity, a game in which you fail, a “true” coach understands and remembers that! Also, a true coach is willing and wanting to continually evolve.  DP-You came to back to Coastal as a highly-decorated recruiting coordinator from Central Florida. What have you learned/gained in the time away from your alma mater?  KS-My three years away from Coastal not only helped me grow as a person and baseball coach, but it expanded my footprint as a national recruiter. I returned with a more diverse perspective of the college baseball landscape and feel like I’m a better coach, recruiter, and person. I’m able to put the total program in a more defined perspective —- and that’s all positive.  DP-What is most rewarding about being back home? KS-It’s very rewarding to be able to wear Black and Teal every day! The ability to represent Coastal Carolina is an honor. Coastal Carolina has meant so much to my family and me.  DP-Your son Jayden has had a difficult time since your return. If you are comfortable sharing, what has that been like for you personally? Professionally? KS-We still have a long road ahead of us in recovery and treatment of the underlying cause of the situation; however, he is out of immediate danger and has been progressing well as we, together, will tackle this next chapter of the story. His resiliency through this situation has been so inspiring and we are so proud of him. We are so appreciative and thankful of the overwhelming support we’ve received from our Coastal family, the CF Elementary School, and the entire Grand Strand community! DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family?  KS-I married a very independent and supportive wife. Balance in this profession is nearly impossible.  DP-When you hear the expression “old school baseball”, what does that phrase mean to you?  KS-I like to describe myself as a hybrid “Old School and New School” Coach. Both “school’s” believe in doing things right, but the new school embraces using social media, as well as advanced technology and video platforms much more available to coaches today.  DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?   KS-The biggest joy to me is watching our players grow physically and mentally in such a short period of time, and when they succeed is the most gratifying feeling/experience as a baseball coach. DP-How has coaching/recruiting changed in the past 10 years? KS-The biggest change is the increased number of universities that have put more of an investment in their baseball program. This has has created more competition.  DP-What is your greatest pet peeve in life? During games? In practice? KS-My pet peeve: coaches and players who take short-cuts! “Do not mistake activity for achievement” is my watchword to avoid inefficiency. I believe in spending more time in doing things right, and less time on figuring out what’s wrong. DP-Please list the top 3 selling points of your school? Your baseball program? KS-Selling points of Coastal Carolina University: Location, superb learning environment, led by an amazing Administration and caring faculty. The college is still small enough for everyone to know each other, but big enough to offer a numberless of unique opportunities and experiences. Selling points of Coastal Carolina baseball: Arguably the best baseball facilities in the country when you look at the total package, a consistent winning tradition, outstanding schedule, opportunity to get better as a person and player, 1st class teaching (coaching) staff, and an administrative and support system, that is second to none. DP-We are often asked what a college coach is looking for. Can you answer that question in just a few sentences? KS-Simplistically: I’m looking for a hitter that can consistently square the ball on the big part of the barrel. Defensively, when the ball is thrown or hit to you it is caught and when you throw the ball, it is thrown accurately.  Note: The more athletic and explosive you are typically increases your chances to develop at a higher rate.  DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why?  KS-My dad was the best coach I ever had and is a major reason why I’m coaching today.  DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against?  KS-Jeff Keppinger – Georgia, Khalil Greene – Clemson, Kevin Slowey – Winthrop            DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? KS-A good teammate is someone who is selfless and always puts team ahead of self. In order to have a successful team, players must understand their roles and no one person is more important than the team. DP-What accomplishment are you most proud of? KS-There is nothing more rewarding than being called, “Dad”. I’m proud to be a father. DP-Who has made the greatest …

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DP Q&A: Monte Lee

LeeMonte-ClemHCAs Monte Lee enters his first campaign as the new skipper in Tigertown, he spent a little time with DP to expand on a myriad of questions. As his crew prepares for their 2016 slate, enjoy getting to know the journey he has taken to his present post – plus much, much more!

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Coaches Corner: Chad Amidon

  DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? This will be my 9th year of coaching and 8th as the Recruiting Coordinator/Pitching Coach. Also, I’m proud to say that all 9 have been at the same institution.  After a summer of playing Independent Baseball and re-injuring an old elbow injury, current Head Coach Kevin Nichols asked if I would hang around and help with pitchers as well as the recruiting efforts, and I have been here ever since. Honestly, I had no idea what I was going to do after college. My whole life had always revolved around sports and I never thought about life after baseball. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? Watching our athletes take on the same personality traits as their coaches (which might not be a good thing). Also, watching our athletes reach levels that they didn’t think they could reach. Building a program, many people in the baseball world deemed impossible. Life long friendships, is also a great perk. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? For those that know me, know that I love confrontation. I don’t mean to step on toes with this answer, so I will say what I have to say with all due respect. To me the term coach means much more than teacher. As coaches we spend 20 hours a week with our athletes for 4 years not 4 hours in a week. We get calls at ALL HOURS of the day and night with problems other than math formulas. As coaches we have the ability to shape and mold young men. Not only men, but men that provide value to those around them and to there community, there has never been a player that has passed thru Erskine, that if they were to call me tomorrow with a problem that I wouldn’t try to help. Not only is a coach there for them during their 4 years we are there for them the rest of their life. I truly believe to a student-athlete after Mom and Dad, coaches are the next most influential people in their lives good or bad. No one can make me feel any different!!! DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? While coaching has great rewards it also has numerous downfalls. There are numerous arguments among households because of the immense time away from home. I hear coaches complain about the pay, I’m not sure they have any idea the level of pay that coaches receive at this level. If they did I’m sure they wouldn’t complain as much. Therefore, I have to work another job and still can’t make ends meet. So for those trying to break into the coaching ranks, plan on a 7 day a week 365 day work schedule; yes even holidays are a must. Rules state that we are allowed 20 hours a week with our athletes. The 20 hours is team related not recruiting and other behind the scene activities that must take place to have a successful program. I wish, at least at Erskine, that we were paid by the hour and had to clock in everyday, just pay us minimum wage and we’ll be golden!!! DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? As I stated earlier, my life literally has always revolved around sports. I know that is a sad statement, but it is true. In High School I was a 5 sport athlete. Sports, was the subject that ever since I could walk that my dad and I always had a connection with. So, all my life sports and especially baseball was all I knew and is probably still so today. I not sure there is another skill that I’m good enough at, to hold down another job. I was very fortunate that Coach Nichols gave me the shot that he did. Honestly, it took a pretty big set to hire a 23 year old kid to be in charge of Recruiting/Pitchers. I like to think that it has been a good trade off though. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? I use this easy principle. It starts with a phone call to my wife. I act very nice for the first few minutes and then I drop the bombshell to her that I’m not going to be home until very late then I wait. The next reaction I get is going to dictate whether I stay the whole game or if I get to stay for 1 or 2 AB’s. If it is going to be a week long trip I have to let her know about a year in advance so she is prepared for it (that is no exaggeration). Also, as I’ve gotten older I have learned how to work smarter not harder. I try to utilize our in state talent as much as possible. I like to think that it has work up to this point. DP-Quite a few rules have changed the recruiting game over the past 5 years. Which rule changes do you like, not like and how has it altered your approach to recruiting? I’m glad to see the NCAA do away with the 4-2-4 rule. This rule states that a player attending a four year institution (we will call this  institution A) that wishes to transfer to a two institution is only eligible to transfer out of that two institution to another four institution (we will call this institution c) other than that of institution A is eligible only if they graduate from the two year institution. Even, if they were a qualifier out of high school. If you could follow the explanation of that rule then college baseball may be for you. People may not believe me, but I don’t like the roster …

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Coaches Corner: Chad Holbrook – USC

Coaches Corner – Chad Holbrook, South Carolina: After a highly-productive run for the Tarheels over more than a dozen years, Chad Holbrook is now in his second year as the Gamecock recruiting coordinator. In his Q & A for Diamond Prospects, the USC associate head coach talks about Omaha, gives us personal favorites on an array of things and takes us down memory lane, but he also provides our viewers a glimpse of reality and the dose of nasty curveballs that his family has dealt with outside the white lines: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? This will be my 17th year coaching. 15 years at UNC and the last two here at South Carolina. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a college baseball coach?  There is something special about being in a dugout with a group of players and coaches that are all trying to do their best to help the team win. The camaraderie and the relationships you have with the players is something that is very, very rewarding. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you?  Well, it means a lot. The first two terms that pop into my mind when defining a coach are "leader, and role model." But you have to be so much more. You have to be genuine, you have to be honest, you have to be knowledgeable, you have to be a great communicator, and you certainly have to be very aware of so many things going on around you. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession?  I’m very lucky and get great enjoyment of being a coach at a great state University. I guess the thing that would surprise people would be that I would guess that only 30 percent of my job entails coaching. The other 70 percent involves recruiting, traveling, paperwork, phone calls, scheduling, organizing, and public relations work. I certainly wish it was the other way around.  DP-You came to Columbia as a very highly decorated recruiting coordinator from North Carolina. What type of adjustments have you had to make leaving your alma mater for USC?  Well, it’s two great schools and two great programs. Each university and baseball program is unique in its own way. Coach Tanner has given me so many responsibilities and that makes coming to work everyday so much fun. We have a great product here for kids that want to play college baseball and its energizing to be working for a great coach, university, city, and community all of which are so passionate about the sport of baseball.  DP-You’ve been to Omaha and had success. What is that experience like?  It’s certainly a great experience and one of the best sporting events in our country. So to be involved in an event that is watched by the entire nation is an awesome experience. It’s more rewarding for a coach to watch the look on your players’ faces when they play in Omaha and walk on that field for the first time. It’s just an incredible event to be a part of.    DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? I grew up in a coaching household. My father was a coach during my entire childhood. It was just something I always wanted to do. I’ve been awfully lucky to be around great kids, great people, and two great universities. You certainly don’t get into coaching because of the money but the experiences this profession give you both on and off the field are priceless. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family?  It’s something I struggle with everyday. I would much rather be known as a great dad than a great coach. And regardless of the success I have as a coach, I hope that when I call it quits, that my kids think I was a better father than I was a coach. That’s important to me. Luckily, Coach Tanner gives us such freedom to be with our families. He makes sure that we have time and that we take time to be with our kids and wives. In the grand scheme of things, that certainly is the most important thing we do. DP-You are the father of two. Some may not know what your family has been through with your oldest son Reece and his health issues. How difficult has it been to combine everything that goes along with his treatments with the daily demands of your ballclub?  Reece is my hero. He has done so much more for his mom and dad than we have done for him. He will always be the person that I admire the most. As any parent would attest, you will do anything and everything you can for your kids and their health. So when something needs to be addressed with Reece from a treatment or an appointment standpoint- whatever else I’m doing takes a backseat. It really doesn’t matter what I’m doing, who I’m recruiting or who we are playing. When Reece needs to be taken care of, that is what Jenn and I do and that is what any parent would do if they had a young kid that faces life-threatening issues.  DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you?  Offensively hitting behind runners, executing the bunt and hit-and-run game, running the bases hard, running on and off the field. Defensively-pitchers working fast, throwing strikes, playing great defense, throwing the ball to the right base, hitting the cutoff man and again, running on and off the field. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?   The Super Regional win at Alabama to send us to our first College World Series is something I will never forget. It was a walk-off, two-out, three-run homerun. That made it …

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Coaches Corner: Matt Williams – Spartanburg Methodist College

Coaches Corner – Matt Williams, Spartanburg Methodist College: Growing up the son of a coach, a young left-hander played the game but kept his ears open along the way and has turned into a fine coach in his own right as the recruiting coordinator for the Pioneers. He took some time for DP to let baseball viewers get to know him better. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business?  MW-I have been at Spartanburg Methodist for 5 years, I coached Spartanburg American Legion for 4 summers, Diamond Devils for 1 summer, helped my dad at Lancaster High School 1 year, and the Columbia Blowfish for half of this past summer. The summer after my sophomore year at SMC Coach Wallace asked me if I wanted to be the pitching coach for the legion team. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach?  MW-Watching a pitcher go out and have success after we have worked on something. Also, after one of our guys commits to a four-year school or gets the opportunity to play pro ball after the hard work they have put in. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you?  MW-It means to be able to relate something to one of your players and for them to go out and execute what you have taught them. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? MW-The amount of time that is put into each day.  DP-We all know there is very little money in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why do you do it? MW-I love being around the game and helping teach the game to others. I grew up at the baseball field so for me, I do not know what else I would have done. Not a lot of people go to work and enjoy what they do. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your personal life? MW-I make time for my personal life when I get the chance. DP-Why is the JUCO route a good option for a high school player? MW-1) Game experience- this cannot be replaced by sitting on the bench early in your college career. Juco’s have to rely on freshman and sophomores to contribute right away whereas at the four-year schools you may have to wait on an older guy to graduate. 2) It allows you the chance to be drafted every year where if you go to a four-school you have to wait until your junior year or when you are 21 years old. DP-Take a few lines to sell Spartanburg Methodist to a prep recruit: MW-SMC is totally different than all of the other two-year schools around. We offer guys a true college experience in which they will live on campus, eat in the café, and participate in campus life, all wihile getting an education and playing baseball. SMC will give you a chance to play for a NATIONAL TITLE and one of the best coaches in the country in Tim Wallace. DP-How have the NCAA recruiting rule changes helped or hurt JUCO’s? MW-I think it has helped SMC. We have also been able to get good players in the past but with the rule changes it has given us the opportunity to pick up some guys that may have been offered very little aid to a four-year institution. DP-Your dad coaches at a competing Region X program. Describe what its like to see your father in an opposing dugout and how competitive are your conversations when wearing different uniforms? MW-At first it was different because we went to Lancaster to play, I was sitting in the visiting dugout (which I had never done), and we had always competed for the same things but once the game started it was all about SMC getting the win. The conversations for me are always fun because right now we hold the series lead at 4-0. DP-Two years ago your dad and grandmother became ill at the same time and you lost her. What was that experience like and how has that changed your life? MW-It was a very unfortunate situation for both of them to be in the hospital at the same time and for her to pass away. He was in ICU and she was in a regular room but he knew she had been struggling for some time. When she did pass away, we really didn’t know what to do because he is in ICU and we didn’t want to upset him with the news and things turn bad for him also. My mom and I spoke with the doctors for a while and they told us it would be okay to tell him, then my mom decides she does not want to tell him, so I had to convince her that if the doctor says it is okay then we should let him know. So we went up to his room to tell him and he takes it as well as he could because he knew she was better off and she would reunite with my grandfather. Unfortunately, he did not get to attend her funeral but he received his fair share of visitors at the hospital. Luckily after about two weeks at the hospital he was released and seems to be doing well. For me this definitely showed me to value every minute you get to spend with family because you just never know when something may happen.   DP-Your mother is currently fighting cancer. How is she doing and what has her battle been like for you? MW-My mom was diagnosed with indiamentral cancer in June. She had her uterus removed, has been through chemotherapy and radiation treatments and they feel like they have cured her of cancer. At first it was very tough for her because just like every mother, she wanted to look good and be able to walk down the isle for my brothers wedding. She goes back to the doctor in January for her last check-up. She seems to be getting …

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Coaches Corner: Steve Williams – USC Lancaster

Coaches Corner-Steve Williams, USC Lancaster: Steve Williams has been a fixture at Doomsday Corner for years, now he is the chief Lancer at USC Lancaster. Anyone that has ever met this man can attest to his passion for the game and the players he works with. In his Q & A, that love for baseball and young people are apparent: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? SW-Officially 34 years, but it started in the neighborhood in 1965, that is too many to count. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach?  SW-When a young man realizes what he has just done is something we had talked about, worked on, and shared getting to that point. That sparkle in just 1 eye is really "priceless". DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you?  SW-It is a person who partners with student-athletes to try and maximize their personal, educational and athletic potential. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession?  SW-The time involved and that monetary reward is not everything! It helps, but more often than not, it is not the best aspect of the profession. DP-We all know there is very little money in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? SW-Why does the sun rise every day? If you can find your passion in life it’s hard to walk away from it!  DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family life? SW-First, you have to have a wife that loves you no matter what! Jan enjoys sports to a point, but then she lets me go. The kids were always involved growing up because they were exposed. Matt coaches/ recruits at Spartanburg Methodist, Rob punted at Coastal, and Katy played softball at Spartanburg Methodist. They all understood about the time away, often they went with me. DP-Why is the JUCO route a good option? SW-JUCO allows a student-athlete to play more games in 2-year period, which means there is a chance to gain more experience due to more games played, and he is eligible for the "Draft" each year. It also allows him to grow socially and educationally. DP-Take a few lines to sell USC Lancaster to a prep recruit: SW-It is a new program therefore you have a chance to be a part of building a tradition. The student-athlete has smaller classes at a very reasonable price. Once they acquire their Associate’s Degree classes transfer easily. The student-athlete will have a chance to compete against some of the best JUCO talent in the country! DP-You have coached at the HS level, in the Cape Cod League, AAU baseball and now at a JUCO. How are the different levels the same and how are they different? SW-All the levels have the throwing, hitting, and fielding. The basic baseball fundamentals needed to participate. The speed of the game changes at each level, as you progress the intensity, focus, and passion must continue to grow. There are many components involved in getting to "Pro" baseball. This is the dream of each participant at each level, not many guys dream about being doctors, lawyers, or teacher/coaches.   DP-One of your sons coaches at a competing Region X program. Describe what its like to see your kid turn into a college baseball coach and how competitive are your conversations when wearing different uniforms? SW-I’m proud of him, but it is fun to compete against him. As a parent you don’t think they are paying attention when they are young and they surprise you. He has had a chance to be around lots of good baseball people, so a lot of the time our conversations are about baseball. I tell him I helped him get where he is, now he has to go back and help me get where he is. Life is a circle!! DP-Two years ago you and your mother became ill at the same time and you lost her. What was that experience like and how has that changed your life? SW-What a test of Faith! She had the beginnings of Alzheimers and had been ill off and on since we lost my Dad. She missed him and my brother (Mike) terribly, she just went to be with them again. I’m who I am because of them. I trust God, He is a great guy!! The days are always good, sun is always bright. I’m more thankful for Jan, Matt, Rob, and Katy. I’ve realized my time is short and obviously God has something I still have to do! I’m having a ball (no pun intended) right now in my life, Thanks to God! DP-Your wife is currently fighting cancer. How is she doing and what has her battle been like? SW-Wow, what a strong lady. First to put up with a very passionate baseball coach and to have raised 3 kids. She always let me coach until they were able to tag along. She has had surgery, chemo and radiation, all in the last 6 months. She is doing fine, everything looks good. She is tired still, but it does not slow her much. She has just made about 100 tree ornaments to sell at a Relay for Life event. Wow! DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you?  SW-It means you play the game with passion, integrity, hustle, intensity, and camaraderie. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"?  SW-Here is where the high school players have to learn time management that first year. You have to excel in the classroom, so you can compete on the field. They have to be conscious enough to work hard in both areas. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?  SW-There have been too many to write about. I would like to think the most memorable experience has not yet happened! DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as …

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Coaches Corner: Jim Toman – Liberty University

Coaches Corner – Jim Toman, Liberty University: The big guy was a fixture at ballparks across our state for more than a decade. His recruiting classes at USC speak for themselves. Jim Toman is the top cat at Liberty University now, but has taken time over his holiday for Diamond Prospects to answer a few questions about the past, present and future. Enjoy! DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? JT-A total of 24. 3 HS, 1 at FIU, 7 NC State, 11 at USC and 2 Liberty. This is my 25th year. I came from an athletic family and played college ball at NC State and I thought coaching was something I could excel at and would enjoy doing. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a college baseball coach?  JT-The relationships between the coaches and players and seeing the players succeeding in life and in Professional ball. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you?  JT-Someone that can get the most out of a player, both personally and athletically. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession?  JT–That coaches at all levels put in a ton of hours and in most cases are really underpaid. DP-In the fall of 1996, you came to Columbia as a very highly-decorated recruiting coordinator from North Carolina State. What type of adjustments did you have to make leaving your alma mater for USC? JT-We had to learn the state of SC and make the state our top priority in recruiting and had to begin to understand the Clemson/USC rivalry and its importance to the fans. DP-You’ve been to Omaha and had success. What is that experience like? JT-I was very, very fortunate to help USC make it to the CWS three times. It is every coach’s dream to get there. It is everything it is made out to be and more. I would love to take Liberty there as well. DP-In what ways is it different for you coaching at a mid-major school now versus being in the ACC/SEC? JT-When I was as NC State and USC, I was an assistant so it was very different now being the head coach and also being at a mid-major. I realize that I am not as good a recruiter now! On the field it is very similar, the biggest change is recruiting. Many of the better players seem to want to go to the ACC/SEC…what they need to realize is that there are a lot of advantages to going to a school like Liberty. The opportunity for early playing time is more evident here than at some of the top SEC and ACC schools. DP-After nearly two decades as an assistant coach, compare and contrast how is your role is now as the head coach. JT-I still keep my hands on recruiting and definitely have a lot more things to worry about as the head coach. Luckily I have had great assistants. DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? JT-Good question. I wasn’t overly concerned about money when I was younger and really didn’t consider doing anything else. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? JT-Luckily I married a very understanding wife. God is first, family is second, and baseball a close third! DP-Some people may not know the story of how you met your wife and how it relates to baseball in our state. Care to share? JT-She picked me up at the Georgetown IP Classic, that’s how I remember it. She has another story. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you?  JT-Playing the game the right way, the way the game was meant to be played. Hustling, playing hard, having fun. This is how everyone should play the game today. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"?  JT-Someone that realizes that you go to school to get a degree first and athletics is secondary. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?  JT-The three trips to the College World Series. DP-Quite a few rules have changed the recruiting game over the past 5 years. Which rule changes do you like, not like and how has it altered your approach to recruiting? JT-I do not like the 27 scholarship slots or the 35 man roster limit. All these rules do is limit the opportunities for student-athletes. I would like to see 15 scholarships and divide them any way you like and have a limit of 40 players. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why?  JT-Ray Tanner. He gave me an opportunity to coach at NC State and USC. I learned recruiting from him and learned how to run a clean program and treat people as fairly as possible and also learned a good work ethic from him. DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against?  JT-David Price, Mark Prior, Cliff Lee. There have been lots of others. DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important?  JT-Someone that everyone on the team can trust. Someone that puts the team ahead of himself. It’s a big part of team chemistry. DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what? JT-Not really. If things are going good I certainly don’t change things though. DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played?  JT-They play year round, they are bigger, stronger, and faster now. They aren’t as tough as we were back in the day…at least they don’t seem as tough!! DP-Now switching gears, think back to your days as a baseball player, please list any notable accolades:  JT-My senior year as NC State I set the ACC tournament record for total bases. I think it lasted for 20 years …

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Coaches Corner: Jeff Wicker – USC Salkehatchie

Coaches Corner – Jeff Wicker: USC Salkehatchie recruiting coordinator Jeff Wicker is in his sixth year in Allendale. His passion for baseball is apparent but his Q & A with us resulting in one of the most humor-driven spotlights that we’ve ever published. Enjoy! DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? JW-This is my 9th year, and my 6th on the collegiate level. I coached two years of legion ball for Post 28 in Spartanburg, and also helped at Clover HS for parts of one year. I’m also entering my fourth summer of coaching in collegiate summer leagues. I got started after my sophomore year in college. I had Tommy John surgery late that spring and really couldn’t do anything that summer, so I volunteered (the first of many seasons!) as a local recreation league coach for a 15-18 year old team. A second elbow surgery actually led to me coaching legion, as well. I guess the saying that those who can’t play the game coach the game rang true! DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach?  JW-The relationships are by far the most rewarding part. I’m still very close with a lot of former players. Many of them are now finishing their college requirements and entering the work force. It’s awesome when you get a random email or phone call from past players. I’ve also made some great friends within the coaching ranks. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you?  JW-It really depends on the day. Some days it means friend. Some days it means motivator. Some days it means disciplinarian. Some days it means academic advisor. I could probably name 20 different hats that a coach has to wear, but it all centers around teaching. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession?  JW-Through the many interviews preceding mine, most of your readers are probably aware that the hours are incredibly long, and the pay is incredibly small. DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? JW-As I briefly mentioned in the first question, the main reason I coach is because I can’t play anymore. After that, I just love going to the ballpark everyday. I’ve always been a student of the game, and coaching just seemed to be a natural progression.  DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your personal life? JW-I don’t. DP-Why is the JUCO route a good option? JW-Repetition, repetition, repetition, repetition. Players get more time on the field under JUCO regulations. We’re allowed to play a fall schedule, and pretty much get the majority of the fall semester to have full team practice. With intra-squads and games, many of our hitters get upwards of 100 plate appearances in the fall. Most of our pitchers get 25-30 innings of mound time during that time span. Incoming freshmen are also competing against 19-20 year old sophomores, as opposed to 22-23 year old seniors for playing time. There’s a big difference. DP-Take a few lines to sell USC Salkehatchie to a prep recruit: JW-In addition to my answer to the previous question, USC Salkehatchie is a great place for a young man to grow as a person, student, and player. We don’t have any of the bright lights, but student-athletes have access to a quality education and pretty good baseball facilities. All of our facilities are on-campus. Coach Dorman does an unbelievable job on the playing surface. Our field is as good as any field we play on in the spring, if not the best. We also have a pretty good weight room and clubhouse at the field. The clubhouse and field are equipped with wireless internet access, and our SID is planning on webcasting and video streaming many of our home games in the near future. We also recently broke ground on a new 100 bed, housing facility 150 feet from our main classroom building. The school is growing, and I think people might be surprised at what we have to offer. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"?  JW-Very few players get a chance to make a real living playing the game. A student-athlete is someone who realizes academics are the key to their future. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?  JW-Travis Howard’s walk-off grand slam in 2007 was a big one, but the most memorable experience was probably a legion game in 2001. We’re in an elimination game in the state playoffs. I was coaching with Brandon McKillop and Corey Galt. Galt couldn’t make it for some reason, and McKillop got tossed (shocker) in the seventh or eighth inning, putting me in the box for the first time all summer. We’re down eight runs with two outs in the bottom of the ninth. Thanks to my brilliance, we scored eight runs in the ninth and win the game in extras.   DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why?  JW-I have to pick two, and they’re probably the two grumpiest people I know. I played for Tim Medlin for five years at Newberry College and really learned the game from him. He also got me started in the college game by giving me the opportunity to coach with him one year. I’ve learned a tremendous amount about coaching from Bubba Dorman. This is my 6th year with him, and he’s an incredible teacher of the game. DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against?  JW-Lonnie Chisenhall (Pitt), Kyle Koeneman (Walters State), & Matt Little (Louisburg)  DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important?  JW-It means showing up everyday and giving effort. DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what? JW-It depends on the time of the year. Early in the year, with full sanity, I have very few. As the …

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Coaches Corner: Tim Perry

Diamond Spotlight-Tim Perry: UNC Asheville Recruiting Coordinator Tim Perry has deep ties in South Carolina, though he now calls the Tar Heel state home. He recently spent some time doing a Q & A with Diamond Prospects and provides us a series of responses on topics ranging from NCAA Regionals, cooking and family life to where he attributes his success. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? TP-10 years. My dad worked at USC-Spartanburg while I was growing up so I hung around Coach John Daurity and his team as much as I could dragging bats and shagging for BP. By the time I was in High School, I knew I wanted to coach! DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? TP-The lives you touch and the relationships you build. There is no greater feeling in the world than receiving a call or a text from a former player after a great game in Pro Ball and feeling like you helped them get there. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession?  TP-The time and energy that goes into recruiting, practice, games, preparing scouting reports for games, scheduling, fund raising, travel arrangements and summer ball placement. DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? TP-A good friend of mine, Bubba Dorman, once said, "I did not get into coaching to make a living, I do it to make a difference". I feel the same way. I knew what the salary was when I signed the contract. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? TP-I have a very supportive and understanding wife. She played tennis at Wofford and her dad coached football and brother is a football coach. She loves baseball and our program as much as I do and involves herself and our daughter in it as much as possible. It is always difficult being away from them but it makes you appreciate your time at home with them so much more. You learn to cherish it during the busy times of the year. DP-Though you coach in North Carolina now, most of your ties are to the Palmetto State. Tell us about your route to Asheville and how closely you keep up with baseball in South Carolina: TP-I grew up an hour from Asheville in Greenville, SC but never imagined coaching and living here. The Mountains have definitely grown on me though and we still live very close to our family, which helps. I still keep up with HS Baseball in SC as much as I can on www.Thedimondprospects.com, but we stay pretty busy in NC so I don’t get down to as many games in SC as I once did. DP-How is your golf game these days? TP-Not very good. I play a lot of Army Golf these days. Right, Left, Right, Left, Right, Left. It is still an enjoyable 4 hours away from the office. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you?  TP-Playing as hard as you can every pitch of every out of every inning of every game that you play. DP-A couple of years ago, your Bulldogs pulled off an improbable run through the Big South Tournament to earn a bid into the NCAA Regionals. Describe that week and what you think allowed your kids to accomplish the feat: TP-We were playing well down the stretch going 8-4 in our last 12 regular season games. But it was not until Allen DeRatt pitched a 2-hit shutout against the #1 seed Birmingham Southern in Game 1 that our guys started believing they could win the whole thing. Everybody fed off that and we pitched really well the rest of the week going 4-1, 2.66 ERA, 36 K to 18 BB, and Opp BA was only .219. We remained confident throughout the championship game despite falling down 10-0 early. We just kept telling them that if we could get into their bullpen we had a chance. They never gave up, just kept pecking away and when we gave the ball to Deratt down 10-5 in the 6th you could see on their faces that they believed they could win it all. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach?  TP-Rob Vernon’s Grand Slam in the Big South Championship game that put us ahead of Liberty 11-10 after trailing 10-0 and Allen Deratt striking out PK Keller to win that Championship Game and the DOG PILE in the middle of Coastal Carolina’s infield that ensued. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why?  TP-I cannot pick one single person. I have been very fortunate to surround myself with a lot of very good mentors like John Daurity, Tim Medlin, Bubba Dorman, Joe Hudak and Mike McGuire and have taken bits and pieces from each and every one of them. DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against?  TP-Buster Posey– Florida State, Matt LaPorta– Florida and Kevin Slowey– Winthrop DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played?  TP-The concept of TEAM and WINNING seemed more important when I played. There were no showcases and FALL BALL had just begun. DP-Now switching gears, think back to your days as a baseball player, please list any notable accolades:  TP-I would have to go all the way back to Little League All-Stars where I started behind the Plate in front of Matthew LeCroy. He went on to star at Clemson, play in the Olympics and spent 8 years in the Big Leagues. I guess we know who motivated him, huh. DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school? TP-Graduating from Newberry College, marrying Virginia Grace Shaw, and experiencing the birth of our daughter Ava Grace Perry. DP-Who were …

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