Interviews – Page 2 – Diamond Prospects

Coaches Corner: Jeff Whitfield

Diamond Spotlight-Jeff Whitfield: Furman assistant coach Jeff Whitfield is in his second season with the Paladins and recently spent some time with Diamond Prospects to cover topics ranging from family to cheerleading, and from baseball heroes to imparting his thoughts on the different aspects of coaching. The TL Hanna product and Lander University graduate speaks his mind in a series of great responses. Enjoy! DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? JW – I have been a coach for 4 years. Originally, I went to Lander University with the intention of going on to Medical School and becoming a doctor. Later, I decided to teach school and coach baseball. There’s a big difference in pay, but I knew this choice would make me happier in the long run. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? JW – The great reward of coaching is to see these young players grow into men over their four years under your leadership. It is also incredible to see them handle and overcome adversity with the challenges they encounter. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? JW – To me, "Coach" means someone who can both teach a sport and be a leader for the team. A coach needs to be able to guide players in every aspect of the game both on and off the field. Coaches should strive to help their players be their best on the field, in the classroom and as an individual. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? JW – Most people don’t realize that this is a year-long profession… it never stops. I leave my house every morning at 6:30 AM and do not get home until 8 or 8:30 at night. There are frequent road trips and that time away from your family is tough. But, the more time and effort you put into it, the more it pays off in the long run. 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 – I started coaching for the love of the game and to keep balance in my life between what I have to do and love to do. Baseball has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. After many years of playing and training in order to make it into the big leagues, I could not just turn my back on the sport that helped mold me into the individual I am today. I’ve also had many great coaches that I’ve looked up to and who helped me get started in this profession. I teach Elementary PE as my "day job" to supplement my coaching salary. It’s great to have a career that affords me the flexibility to do both. DP-How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? JW – This is very tough!!! At Furman, Monday is our day off so Mondays are "date night". When I get home from school my wife and I go out for dinner and a movie, or we do whatever she wants to do. My family knows that baseball is a huge part of my life. My wife is still number one in my heart (with baseball at a close second). I invite my wife to come on as many recruiting trips with me as possible. She is a nurse and has a lot of flexibility and freedom with her schedule. She is able to go on many summer recruiting trips with me so she can understand the sport better and to spend more time with me as well. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? JW – "Old School Baseball" means playing the game hard and playing the game right… the way it is supposed to be played. "Old School Baseball" means not worrying about how you look, but being one with baseball and enjoying the game for the love of the game. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? JW – A student-athlete is exactly what it implies; a student first and then an athlete. Furman has a tough academic program so we have exceptional student-athletes here who do a wonderful job of making sure they take care of classroom responsibilities before they ever come out to the field. It is tough for our student-athletes because these guys are in labs or classes everyday. This makes scheduling practices everyday quite difficult. We stress getting your degree, first and foremost, and then see where baseball may lead you. A player never knows when it is going to be his last pitch, at bat, or game and it’s important to have a solid education to fall back on. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? JW – It’s tough for me to recall my most memorable experience as a baseball coach. Even as a young coach, I have a lot of great memories that stand out. The most memorable experience so far would have to be the 13-game winning streak we had in conference last year. It started at UNC Greensboro; I remember it started on a crazy play that Jay Jackson made when he was on third with one out in the 8th inning of a tied game. We reviewed everything he was going to do, like we always do with a runner on third, but Jay asked if it goes to the 2nd baseman and he catches it moving, then tag? I told him that if it goes to the 2nd baseman, and he catches it moving away from the plate then tag. What did we have to lose? We won the game by a single run which started the streak. The best thing about the streak was that we played many teams who were more talented than us "on …

Coaches Corner: Sean Heffernan

Francis Marion assistant coach Sean Heffernan enters his third season at Francis Marion University following coaching stops at West Florence and Florence-Darlington Tech. The Queens, NY native also coached in the Coastal Plains League following his playing career at Coker College. Learn more about Heffernan in his Diamond Spotlight: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? SH-10 years now….5 at West Florence HS and 5 at the college level (2 years at FDTC and going on 3 years at FMU). I got into coaching because the most influential people in my life outside of my parents were my coaches. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? SH-I really enjoy being around my players. It is very rewarding to watch guys develop over the course of their careers. It’s always exciting when former players contact you to share the successes of their lives even after baseball is over. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? SH-It means a lot. The word that comes to mind is responsibility. I feel like I am responsible for developing these guys as much as possible. Also to help them prepare for life after baseball. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? SH-I think most people don’t really understand the time that is spent with our jobs. How many people would put in the hours coaches work without over time? Most jobs are motivated by money. My motivation is winning and developing players. 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? SH-I loved playing college baseball and I knew I wanted to coach at the college level because of that. The road trips, the tough practices, the brotherhood….. the winning!!! There is a much different commitment level when being a part of a college program. As a player and a coach you become consumed by it. I also really enjoy evaluating and recruiting. To steal a line from Bill Parcells, "If I am going to cook dinner I want to pick the groceries!!" DP: How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? SH-It is very difficult. I spent the last three summers on a bus in the Coastal Plains League. It’s tough when my daughter asked me this summer if I was going to be at her birthday party!!…that was an eye opener! It can’t be done without a great wife and kids. I am very fortunate to have both. My wife understands athletics so I am lucky. She played 3 sports in college and coached HS soccer for a number of years. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? SH-GRINDER!!! There are not a lot of those guys around but when you come across one, it is so much fun to watch. It makes me think of no excuses….just shut up and get after it!!!! DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? SH-Most people do not realize how special these people are. It takes a highly-motivated person to spend as much time with their sport and still be able to meet the demands of the classroom. Not everybody can do it. DP-How has your junior college background helped you at FMU? SH-It has helped me a lot. I know how good Region X is, so we try to recruit the best guys out of that region each year. It also helped me build some valuable relationships with coaches in that league, which has truly helped me. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? SH-So far it would be starting the program at FDTC….It was a huge task. For us to win the regular season title and have 40 wins was a great experience. Those guys took a chance on us starting a program, and to see them celebrate on the field was unforgettable. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? SH-My HS coach, Jack Curran, is a legend in New York. He is the baseball and basketball coach at Archbishop Molloy HS. He has coached a few NBA and MLB players and has a 1000 wins in both baseball and basketball….He has been coaching over 50 years!! I still talk to him, he is an unbelievable person and coach DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against? SH-Rich Poytheuss– U of Georgia; Dylan Owen– FMU (he played for the Blowfish in the CPL for a few weeks before he signed with the Mets because I could not coach him with the Redwolves); Chris Swauger– The Citadel (I coached him too, but I coached against him as well in the CPL). DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? SH-It is very important to be a good teammate. I think a lot of guys over look this because most kids play baseball to showcase themselves and aren’t concerned with their teammates and winning and losing. Baseball is such a team game, you have to be concerned with helping your team win and you must be willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. I like to recruit winners. DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what? SH-No DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played? SH-Baseball players are so specialized anymore. They focus way too much on getting scholarships and not playing for the enjoyment of the game. When I was a kid there were no camps or showcase or anything like that. I think the exposure can be very beneficial but I also think it effects how players look at the game. DP-Now switching gears, think back to your days as a baseball player, please list any notable accolades: SH-I played 4 years at Coker College. Back then Coker was a very strong program. We were an NAIA program my first year and ranked as high as 3rd in the nation. We lost that year in the regional championship. The next 3 years we were NCAA …

Coaches Corner: Tom Riginos

Coaches Corner-Tom Riginos: Clemson Associate Head Coach Tom Riginos is in his seventh year as part of the Tiger program. Riginos made his mark as a player, then later as a coach at Stetson University before moving to Tigertown. He spent some time recently with Diamond Prospects to do a Q & A with us to give us a close-up look at him and his life as Clemson’s recruiting coordinator: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? TR-This is my 18th year of coaching. My senior year of college I started to work baseball camps and throw BP during practice. I decided to go back to my high school and coach for a year. I loved it and that how it all started. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? TR-Developing relationships during the recruiting process and then seeing the players develop as players and young men. Maintaining the relationships after their playing days are over. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? TR-It means many things to me: Role model, leader, disciplinarian, teacher, a person that can help give direction not only on the field but also in life. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? TR-It takes a lot of hard work and long hours to be successful. 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? TR-For the love of the game, I could not see myself behind a desk for 8 hours a day. DP: How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? TR-It is very difficult to do. I think you have to have balance in life. There are many coaches out there that don’t have balance and they lose their family. I think first you have to have a wife that understands the time it takes. I think as a coach you have to make sacrifices to make it work. I know for me it is as simple as not answering my phone from 7:00-8:30 pm. That is family time. After 8:30 I can make all my recruiting calls from my home office. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? TR-Playing as hard as you can all the time. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? TR-It a person that has their priorities set both in the classroom and on the field. He puts the same effort in both places. DP-Relocation is synonymous with the coaching profession, tell us how your family dealt with the move to Clemson from the state of Florida: TR-It was harder on the grandparents than my wife and me. Our twin girls were only 18 months old and both sets of grandparents were very close. We love living in Clemson and the change of seasons, but miss family. DP-Describe the Omaha Experience to those who have never been there, much less participate in the College World Series: TR-It is hard to put in words the experience of Omaha. It is the one place every college player and coach dreams of going. Best word UNBELIVABLE. DP-Jack Leggett is a highly-respected college baseball coach, tell us a little bit about him: TR-Coach Leggett is the best Head Coach in the business, with that being said, he probably an even better person. He really cares about you as a person. The day he offered me the job seven years ago, I will never forget that day. He offered me the job on a Saturday morning, by the end of that day he had called me five times just wanting to make sure my family and I were taken care of, what could he do to make the move easier. Right then I knew I would be working for a great person. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? TR-Being in the dugout when my son hit his first college home run for Clemson. Winning the 2006 Super Regional on Tiger Field and going to the CWS. DP-Make your case for why the ACC is the best conference in the country: TR-In the last 3 years, the ACC has had 2 to 3 teams in the CWS. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? TR-My Dad, from an early age we were always at the ballpark. DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against? TR-Justin Verlander, Pat Burrell, Mark Teixeira DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? TR-A player that is unselfish, he puts the team before himself. It is vital to have a successful team. DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what? TR-I dress the same way if we are on a winning streak. DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played? TR-So many more outside influences. These high school players have Hitting coaches, pitching coaches, Weight trainers, speed trainers, agents, etc. When I played we had our high school coach, Legion coach and that was it. DP-What is your greatest high school thrill? TR-Beating Gary Sheffield in our district playoffs. DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school? TR-Beating FSU in a regional semi-final and putting Stetson University one win from the CWS. DP-Who were the three best players you played against? TR-Jeff Bagwell, Frank Thomas, Mo Vaughn DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a person and why? TR-Pete Dunn – Head Coach Stetson University. He taught me how to play the game as a player, and he believed in me as a coach. He gave me my first full-time job as a coach. He trusted me to be his recruiting coordinator at 24. DP-Who is you favorite athlete outside of baseball? TR-Tiger Woods DP-Who is your favorite MLB team? TR-Boston Red …

Coaches Corner: Charles Assey

Charleston Southern recruiting coordinator Charles Assey is in his first year at the Big South program after stints at his alma mater Presbyterian and St. Edwards in Texas. Assey grew up in the Palmetto State and the son of a coach, in his DP Spotlight he tells us how he got where he is, some influential people along the way and provides us some very good responses on some of his coaching philosophies. Enjoy getting to know Coach Assey. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? CA-I am entering my 4th year. I have always wanted to get into coaching as I grew up in a coach’s house with my dad being a Head Baseball and Football Offensive Coordinator. Just have it in my blood I guess, never known anything but sports, especially baseball. I also enjoy helping young people get a chance to further their baseball careers as well as educational careers. I believe it is fun watching boys come into your program and hopefully develop and leave as young men/adults. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? CA-Knowing that you can dictate and develop a young person’s life (obviously and hopefully in a positive way). Building relationships with these young men that hopefully they will pick up the phone 5-10 years down the road when they have graduated and moved on to call you and say hello. I think it is awesome to see young people develop over a certain period of time on the field, in the classroom, and as overall people. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? CA-It means to "teach". I believe coaches are teachers on a field. I believe no one knows everything, even us coaches. You can always learn and never be satisfied. I feel like the day you wake up and are satisfied, you lose that hunger and should just hang it up. "Coach" ….means to teach the game, about life, develop young people, motivate, and discipline, but also care/love the men you coach. It is more than just on the field. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? CA-The hours we put in as collegiate coaches. It is not just done at practice in the afternoons from 2-5 PM. It is sincerely a year-around job that can be any hour of the day or night. 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? CA-As mentioned before I do it because for one, it is all I have ever known, and all I know to do. Two, I do it because I like the opportunity to teach and develop or motivate young players to do things maybe I couldn’t do or was never taught, and not just things I haven’t done or been taught, but also carry on things I have been taught to young players. I honestly also do it for the chance to be in Omaha, Nebraska and share that with my TEAM. I believe as coaches, we have to have goals as well or why do we ask our players to do so. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? CA-This expression really just means playing the game hard, respecting the game. Myself or any player current did not invent this game nor were one of the first people to play this game. This game has been around a long time and will be around a long time going forward. Old school baseball really just means to respect the game, play the game the right way, and play the game hard by hustling every time the ball is in play. Getting on and off the field, playing for the TEAM concept over your own personal stats. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? CA-Student-athlete is exactly what it says. I believe any coach would answer this the same way, and do not think it is a scientific question. It means to be a student first in the classroom, handling your grades then fulfilling the athletic part as well as any extra academic or community events that come along DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? CA-I would have to say as of now it was last season with Presbyterian. We were at #5 South Carolina and took them to 10 innings. We did end up losing the game, but to see our guys in their first year of Division I baseball play in that atmosphere and play fairly well against a team like USC, of which the majority of our guys grew up watching, was pretty awesome. It was a great collegiate atmosphere and baseball game. DP-Your father was a very successful baseball coach, what was that like growing up and how has that helped you today? CA-That is a question I get a lot. Asking me now…it was awesome experience, wouldn’t replace it and the things he instilled in me back then are now coming into light as I am coaching. Don’t get me wrong, when I was playing for him we definitely had our times and butted heads a few times, especially at home in the living room after a loss. But, as mentioned, the things he tried to teach us and work habits of "small things" he preached to us…definitely has paid off and made me person/coach that I am today. DP-You spent some time coaching in Texas before returning to the Palmetto State. What took you there and what were some differences in recruiting a larger state? CA-Well, Coach Jeremy Farber who was the assistant at PC when I played, received the Head Job at St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX. When I graduated from PC, he gave me the opportunity to get my foot into collegiate coaching as well as a chance to pay for my Graduate …

Coaches Corner: Scott Forbes

University of North Carolina pitching coach Scott Forbes has made his name in the Tar Heel state but also has roots in our state after a three-year stint as an assistant at Winthrop. He has recently tutored his share of 1st Round arms over the past three seasons at Chapel Hill that narrowly saw them fall short for a National Championship during each trip out west…but they sure were close. In his chat with DP, he talks about the College World Series, the route he took to his current post and baseball in general. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? SF-This will be my 12th season coaching, kind of hard to believe. I started coaching as a student assistant in 1998 at North Carolina Wesleyan just to see if I would like it. I really enjoyed that year and came to UNC with Coach Fox in 1998-1999 and have been coaching ever since then. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? SF-The most rewarding thing for me is trying to help young men develop as players and as people. The relationships you make in coaching last a lifetime. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? SF- ‘Coach’ to me would mean leadership and development. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? SF-The time that all of us put in behind the scenes that no one sees. 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? SF-Man- I know exactly what you are saying- especially after being a volunteer coach for 4 years. I did it because I love the game of baseball and wanted to stay involved in the game as much as I could. DP: How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? SF-I don’t sleep much- HAHA-but you do have to make sacrifices and give some things up. With two little girls I don’t have time for golf like I used to. Basically I try to get up early before my family wakes up and do some work at my home office-spend some time with the fam than head to work. When I get home at night, I do my best to spend time with them and do more work after they go to bed. I also have the best wife in the World, which really helps when you are a coach!! DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? SF-Hustle and playing hard at all times. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? SF-An athlete who goes to college to compete in his or her sport and pursue a college degree. DP-You are no stranger to Omaha! Describe the experience to us and what it feels like to play for a National Championship: SF-Omaha is an unbelievable place. I grew up watching the CWS and always dreamed what it would be like to be there. The passion for baseball out there is unreal and to coach and watch our guys compete on that National stage is so rewarding because I know how much time the players put in to get to Omaha. Playing for a National Championship was such a thrill, and although we did not win it I still appreciate the fact that we got there 2 years in a row. I also realize how hard it is to get there and how much we should enjoy the experience. DP-You played for Mike Fox and now coach with him. Tell us a little bit about him and talk about the relationship you guys share: SF-I loved every minute of my time at North Carolina Wesleyan playing for Coach Fox. It has been neat to go from player to coach in our relationship. We have a great relationship and we both take great pride in working hard every day to help UNC Baseball get better in any way possible. DP-You serve as the Tar Heels pitching coach and your pupils have certainly excelled, but you were not always a pitching coach. Tell us how you have evolved as a coach and who you drew from to learn your niche. SF-I have been very fortunate to work with so many great coaches. My High School Coach Charlie Spivey was and is a great coach and mentor. Every coach I have worked for or worked with have been great friends and people (Joe Hudak, Mike Fox, Chad Holbrook,Roger Williams, Jason Howell, Matt McCay, Scott Jackson, Kyle DiEduardo) and I gathered so much knowledge from all of them. I really learned a lot from Roger Williams about the pitching side of things during my 4 years of being the volunteer at UNC. Roger really knows the game and was very good at paying attention to detail. I still try to learn as much as I can at Coaching Clinics and Conventions. I firmly believe that there is no one certain way when it comes to pitching, I think you take what an individual kid has and go from there-there is way too much over-coaching and ‘guru’ coaches out there for me. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? SF-Well I have two that really stick out. Flack’s HR to send us to Omaha against Alabama at Alabama, and winning our last game at the Old Boshamer Stadium which sent us to Omaha 2 years in a row before they tore it down to build our new stadium-to send the ‘Old Bosh’ out like that in front of our home crowd was very special. DP-What has it been like to deal with the building of a new stadium and not have a "home field" for a season? SF-It has been tough and has presented many challenges, but we were very fortunate to have the USA complex in Cary and East Chapel Hill …

Coaches Corner: Russell Triplett

USC Upstate assistant coach Russell Triplett had a strong track record as a very successful player at Brookland-Cayce HS, then later at Clemson and in the Mets farm system. After a stint coaching at his alma mater in Tigertown, Triplett is quickly gaining respect for his efforts on the evaluating trail as the Spartans recruiting coordinator. Triplett recently gave some of his time to DP for some Q & A’s. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? RT-I’m going into my 4th season. Coaching has been in my family. Both my dad and grandfather were High School Football coaches. I always felt like coaching was something I wanted to do. Sports have always been a major part of my life. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? RT-The opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. There is no better feeling than to see an individual grow on the field and off. I’m hoping to a make a difference like so many coaches have done for me. It’s also not a bad feeling to see your guys succeed and win as a team. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? RT- "Coach" to me is a leader, role model and teacher; who can mesh many different backgrounds and personalities to form one unit that works together to accomplish common goals. Great coaches get the most out of each player, making the entire team better. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? RT-There is very little job security in this profession. A coach is only as good as the 35 guys playing for him. There are new and exciting challenges every day. 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? RT-Baseball is what I know. There is a lot to be said about waking up each morning and looking forward to going to work. I have always been surrounded by great people, which makes any job more enjoyable. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? RT- "Old School Baseball" to me is an expression used for people who have made this game what is today. I think we all prosper from the players and coaches before us. "Old School" or "New School," if you’re not playing the game hard, you’re not giving this great game the respect it deserves. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? RT-A "student-athlete" is an individual that must fulfill responsibilities in the order you read it. If you’re not a student first, you don’t get to reap the benefits of being an athlete. A lot of people can do one or the other, but it takes a special person to handle both. DP-What have been some of the bumps in the road as USC Upstate has transitioned from a Division II to the DI ranks? RT-This transition has been pretty smooth because of the foundation Coach Fincher and the Athletic Department at USC Upstate have built. Every program has obstacles they must overcome. Bumps in the road to me are just an excuse for lack of success. We feel strongly that this institution and baseball program will continue to move forward. I think USC Upstate is on the verge of becoming something really special! DP-Prior to Upstate, you spent 2 years as a volunteer assistant at Clemson. How has that experience benefited you? RT-It was a great start, but I’m still learning every day. The program at Clemson speaks for itself. I got to learn from two great assistants in Kevin O’Sullivan and Tom Riginos. They were great examples for what it takes to be successful in the recruiting game. It was a tremendous opportunity to see what goes on behind the scenes of a great program. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? RT-Seeing the 2006 Clemson Tigers win the Super regional at home to advance to Omaha. After experiencing that same thing 4 years earlier as a player, I know the emotions and feelings they had. It’s awesome to know that others had the same opportunity. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? RT-Coach Leggett gave me an opportunity to get into coaching and I will forever be in debt to him. He has made an impact on my life in so many different ways. He has tremendous passion and energy for what he does. Seeing his love for baseball and the people that play for him, made me realize this is what I want to do. DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? RT-A good teammate is someone that can be counted on. He always puts the team goals ahead of his own. DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played? RT-I think they are much more experienced and schooled in the game. Most high school players today have played many more games than I did at that age. You guys do a good job at Diamond Prospects; they are definitely more exposed now than ever before. DP-What is your greatest high school thrill? RT-It would have to be winning a state championship. Individual accomplishments are one thing, but having the opportunity to celebrate with a group of guys that worked so hard and genuinely cared about each other is indescribable. DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school? RT-OMAHA! I feel very lucky and fortunate to have experienced the unbelievable atmosphere of Omaha as a player in 2002 and as a coach in 2006. I honestly don’t remember every game of my career, but those two things I will never forget. DP-Your background has allowed you to play for two very good baseball men in Charlie Assey (Brookland-Cayce HS) and Jack Leggett …

Coaches Corner: Brendan Dougherty

Coastal Carolina assistant Brendan Dougherty began his collegiate playing career by winning a JUCO National Championship and every stop since then has been no stranger to success either. After transferring to Coastal and at the conclusion of his time as a Chanticleer infielder, Dougherty embarked on a life in coaching that has brought him back to the coast and to his alma mater. Dougherty recently took some time for DP to answer some questions for our viewers, enjoy his responses! DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? BD-It is hard to believe for me, but I have been coaching now for 10 years. My dad coached High School basketball for 12 years before he got into the FBI so I would have to say he got me started and my High School coach Vince Ardery really had a passion for teaching the game and he was an innovator at the high school level. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? BD-The most rewarding thing for me is seeing a kid develop. That is why I wanted to get into coaching to develop and try to see kids come into your program and allow them to fail and succeed and ultimately develop into successful players on and off the field. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? BD- ‘Coach’ to me is someone that is a teacher and a mentor to anyone he is in contact with. This job never stops, you are always working and trying to direct kids to be successful on and off the field and prepare them for life after college and some of them get the chance to move on professionally. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? BD-It is not a Monday through Friday recreational job. It is 24 hours 7 days a week. 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? BD-I wanted to stay in the game after I got done playing and I felt this was the best way I could. I played for a lot of great coaches in my career and I wanted to follow in their footsteps. I never got in it for the money. DP-Describe your various coaching experiences, from how it began to some of your highlights while there and how you ended up back at Coastal: BD-I really owe getting into college baseball to Mike Kennedy who offered me a job right out of college. To begin my career at Elon and working for Mike for 4 years was special. I had an opportunity to go to Auburn and coach in the SEC for a year and that was a great experience for me also. I then moved on to The United States Military Academy for two of the best years of my life. Finally, Coach Gary Gilmore called and offered me this chance and there was no way I could turn it down. DP-You coach at your alma mater, tell us what that means to you. BD-It means a lot to me. The opportunity to work with the guy you played for means everything. Coach Gilmore has given me a lot in my career. This was another opportunity to come back and work at Top 25 School in the country it was a no-brainer for me. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? BD-I really don’t think there is such thing as old school baseball. The core of the game has not changed much over the long haul. Yes there have been a lot of other things that have changed but not the real core of the game. It will always be old school to me. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? BD-Student-athlete to me is someone who is willing to do what it takes to be successful on and of the field. DP-What MLB feat in history do you wish you’d been inside the stadium to witness and why? BD-When the Phillies won the 1980 World Series. Huge Phillies fan if you could not tell. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? BD-I have two. First is being able to be a part of a team that was the first in school history to host a regional and the two years I spent at West Point. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? BD-Coach Gilmore, the passion and competitiveness that he brings to the field everyday showed me what it takes to be successful as a player and now as a coach. DP-Who are the best three players you have ever coached against? BD-Aaron Hill-LSU, Jonathan Papelbon-Miss. St, Justin Owens-Coastal Carolina DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? BD-To be a good teammate is someone who shows up everyday on and off the field. DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played? BD-They don’t play enough. They always need a coach there to hit them fungoes or throw BP. Get a group together and just go play! DP-Now switching gears, think back to your days as a baseball player, please list any notable accolades: BD-College was a third team JUCO All-American, High School was All-State, Won a National Championship in Junior College. DP-What is your greatest high school thrill? BD-My 1993 team I played on got beaten in the state championship game we were ranked 9th in the country at one point. Good group of guys. DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school? BD-Being able to come back to Coastal and be a part of the success that Coach Gilmore and Kevin Schnall had built prior to me getting here and trying to keep Coastal going in the right direction. DP-Who were …

Coaches Corner: Art Inabinet

Francis Marion skipper Art Inabinet recently took some time for Diamond Prospects to speak on topics ranging from his Junior College background to his thoughts on how the recent NCAA rules for Division I schools will effect DII programs. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? AI-18 years in college coaching; 4 as an assistant and 14 as a head coach. Horace Turbeville (Winthrop) encouraged me into college coaching after my playing days, spent two years as a graduate assistant working for him. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? AI-The relationships that are built with the players that can last a lifetime. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? AI-The coaches are the leaders of the team. It is our job to teach, motivate, discipline, monitor and ultimately guide our student-athletes to success both on and off the field DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? AI-The amount of time and hard work baseball players put into being a student-athlete. Our players are responsible for conditioning, weight training, practicing, involvement with community service events, study hall, and our guys also help out with fundraising. They also go to class for 15 hours a week and are responsible for tests and other projects that must be completed. 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? AI-This is easy for me, I look forward to going to work everyday. There seem to be new challenges, almost daily, when dealing with 18-22 year old young men, there is never a dull moment. Coaching is similar to anything else you enjoy, if it’s fun you will find a way to stay involved. DP: How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? AI-My wife, Kim, is a former college softball coach, so she understands the time involved in being a coach. Our son, Reese (6), will go to work with me sometimes just so we can be sure to spend time together. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? AI-This is a great question. We consider ourselves at Francis Marion as a program that literally is "old school". We always put the program at the forefront of everything, including the individual. We often speak about how the program is bigger than anyone associated with it, including the coaches. Our style of play is "old school" in that we, first and foremost, structure our philosophy around pitching and defense. We are firm believers in that if the other team does not score we will never lose. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? AI-This is a player who truly engages in both the rigors of being a student and an athlete. We remind our players often you are a student first and an athlete second. DP-How has your junior college background helped you at FMU? AI-It helped in the knowledge there are a lot of JUCO players out there that can help any program. As a result, we recruit JUCO players at Francis Marion University, when we feel we need experience at certain positions or on the team in general. DP-Describe your World Series experience a couple of years back: AI-It was a week of fun, food and playing baseball. It is something that our players can all be proud of and strive to attain. Those memories will last a lifetime. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? AI-When we won the 2006 South Atlantic Regional and went on to play in the D-II World Series. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? AI-Horace Turbeville persuaded me into this profession and helped to mold me as a coach. The lessons he taught me go further than the knowledge of baseball into the very make-up of who I am as a person. So now it is my opportunity to pass on those that come through our program the same core values that he shared with me. DP-Who are the best three players you have coached? AI-DeComba Connor (North Greenville College) 4th round, Dylan Owen (Francis Marion University) 20th round and Erin Jones (Francis Marion University) 31st round (did not sign) DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? AI-It is very important to be a good teammate, because it can contribute positive vibes for team chemistry. Good teammates always put the team first and themselves just as a part of the team. What constitutes a good teammate? Always run balls out, do not make excuses, always give your best and prepared to work. DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what? AI-I may wear the same pair of game pants over and over (without washing) until we lose a game. DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played? AI-Most high school players today only play one sport and if it is baseball, they will now play year round with Fall and Summer ball. DP-Now switching gears, think back to your days as a baseball player, please list any notable accolades: AI-While playing at Winthrop, I had 13 assists in one game versus Campbell (as a third baseman). At the time it was only 1 assist shy of the NCAA record for assists. Hit 3 homeruns in a doubleheader versus UNC-Asheville. DP-What is your greatest high school thrill? AI-When we won the state championship in baseball in 1982 at Calhoun Academy (24-1). DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school? AI-While deer hunting in 2004 harvested two deer with one shot, there was another one behind the one I was shooting at and to my surprise got an eight point and a six point! DP-Who were the three best players you played against? AI-Kirt …

Coaches Corner: David Beckley

DP Spotlight-David Beckley: The Citadel’s David Beckley starred as a prep at Stratford HS then spent time as an all-conference collegiate infielder for the Bulldogs. He found his future niche in the coaching profession with high school stops at James Island, Barnwell and Berkeley before returning home to the military academy over the past the eight baseball seasons. In his Diamond Spotlight, Beckley provides DP responses on a number of questions. Get to know Beckley better here: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? DB-This year will start the beginning of my 13th year in coaching. Upon graduation of The Citadel, I coached one year at James Island High school, one year at Barnwell High School, three years at Berkeley High School, and I am starting my 8th year at The Citadel. I got into coaching because of my love for sports. I have so much respect for the coaches in my life. I wanted to influence ballplayers the way my coaches influenced me when I was a player. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? DB-I get to coach at my alma mater and develop relationships with ballplayers that last forever! DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? DB-We are teachers but we take it way beyond the classroom, or in our case, the baseball field. We teach fundamentals, techniques, and strategies, as well as life skills that will help them cope in the real world. DP-You spent five years coaching at the high school level. In what ways did working with prep athletes help you when you made the move back to college baseball? DB-First, I was able to get my feet wet in regards to experience. Secondly, I knew the area real well and knew who some of the better players were, as well as some of the sleepers who may not shine at just one evaluation. The transition was pretty smooth. I knew The Citadel system, and not many things had changed, so on the field I felt back at home. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? DB-The long hours, the long drives, the time that you miss with family, and the work that we do in the office…so many people think that all we do is play games. But, I wouldn’t want to do anything else! 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? DB-Hard to describe…I love competing, it’s what motivates me! I really enjoy the relationships that are built, and I love seeing our guys succeed! DP-Describe your coaching experience at The Citadel, from how it began to some of your highlights while there. DB-It all started in June of 2002 when Coach Jordan called me after one of our legion games at Berkeley High School and I jumped in! We won the regular season in 2002! It’s always nice to beat some of the "Big Boys"! Since 2002 we have beaten: USC, Nebraska, Miami, Oregon State, NC State, Louisville (just off the top of my head). Nothing to this point has topped winning the SoCon tournament in 2004! DP-You chose a military school to play at and now coach there too. What is the benefit of obtaining a degree from a military school? DB-The military is the world’s best teacher in regards to discipline, respect, time management, organization, dealing with stress and leadership. People out in the real world really like a graduate who has these qualities already instilled in them. Not everybody needs it as much as others, but it can’t hurt anyone! If you graduate from The Citadel you instantly join a brotherhood for life and Citadel guys tend to take care of each other (Citadel grads hire each other). I think you can get the best of both worlds here…great baseball, great education and take away with you some real life skills that will be needed to make it in whatever field you choose! I really appreciate the opportunity to showcase The Citadel and all it stands for! DP-You get to work at your alma mater, tell us what that means to you: DB-I love The Citadel and all it stands for! It means the world to me! This is where my heart is…I bleed Citadel blue, and to have the opportunity to coach here is a true blessing! DP: How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? DB-It is hard! I have a very understanding wife! But, I miss a lot of valuable time with my kids. Basically, I balance my time very wisely…when I’m not recruiting or at work, I spend time with the family. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? DB-The Citadel Baseball and our style! DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? DB-Person who understands the importance of academics and has the ability to balance their time to fulfill requirements to play. DP-What MLB feat in history do you wish you’d been inside the stadium to witness and why? DB-Not sure? But, I know the one I want to be at hopefully this year?? Cubs vs. whoever in the 2008 World Series!! We’ve gotta a chance!! DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? DB-Winning 2004 SoCon Tournament DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? DB-Fred Jordan. I have been with Coach Jordan a long time! I played for him at Stratford HS for three years, four years at The Citadel and am starting my 8th year as a coach. He has taught me so much and I am so grateful he gave me a chance here at The Citadel! Chris Lemonis (now at Louisville) taught me the ropes and showed me the way. Dan McDonnell (also at Louisville) inspired me as a player and inspired me to coach! DP-As you noted, your history with …

Coaches Corner: Kevin Schnall

Coastal Carolina has enjoyed a high level of success with Kevin Schnall in a Chanticleer uniform, first as a player and over the past eight years as an assistant coach. Schnall is now the recruiting coordinator at Coastal and spent some time this week for DP’s readers to know him better, both as a coach and a person. DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? KS-It’s hard to believe, but I just finished my 8th season coaching at Coastal Carolina University. My father was a coach and it was the only thing I new. I retired from professional ball in the summer of 2000 to return to Coastal Carolina to finish my degree and at the same time begin my career. The day I retired from playing was the toughest decision of my life but when I reflect back it was the best decision of my life. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? KS-The most rewarding part of this job is the relationships that are built. I truly believe they begin in the recruiting process and turn into a lifetime. Watching our players grow physically and mentally in such a short period of time is so amazing. I feel like I live vicariously through our players. When they succeed it is the most gratifying feeling, a feeling that is indescribable. 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! DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? KS-That it is a full-time job and the only job I have. 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? KS-Again, growing up a coaches son, it’s all I new. I wouldn’t have been able to do it if my parents weren’t as supportive as they were. I’m very fortunate! DP-Your father used to be a coach in the NFL, how did that make your childhood different? KS-First and foremost, my mother was the most relentless and tireless worker I have ever seen! The older I get the more I realize what my father went through, the number of hours coaching required, and how much he sacrificed for our family. Growing up in locker rooms was a tremendous experience and different from most kids my age, but ultimately it was tough to watch my mothers’ struggles. DP-You coach at your alma mater, tell us what that means to you. KS-I’m forever indebted for the opportunity Coach Gilmore gave me as a player and then as a coach. I’ve been at Coastal Carolina for a third of my life; this is a very special place to me. There is no other Division I jersey I ever put on…and I hope one day, I can say it is the only Division I jersey I EVER put on. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? KS-Truthfully, it means nothing to me! It’s a phrase that makes me cringe because too many coaches use it as an alibi. For example, you hear coaches say: "These kids just aren’t as tough as they used to be!"… I don’t buy it! Today’s highly successful coaches DEMAND their players play hard, which is exactly what my dad preached no matter whether it was in the NFL or on Little League ball fields. DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? KS-A "student-athlete’ is someone who values and understands the importance of competing in the classroom just as hard as on the field. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? KS-There are so many great memories in my eight years of coaching but 2004’s Senior Day still is the most special to me. That group of seniors put Coastal’s program on the national map… 4 straight Big South Championships; 4 straight NCAA Regional appearances; 4 straight 40 + win seasons. DP-Who has made greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? KS-My dad was the best coach I ever had, the best coach I ever seen. He coached with the most infectious energy… DP-Who are the best three players you have ever 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 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 is your greatest high school thrill? KS-Catching my best friends no-hitter in a Mercer County Championship game. DP-What is your greatest thrill, or two, beyond high school? KS-My senior season in 1999 we won 45 games…this team refused to lose! It was such a pleasure to be apart of that dedicated group which set in motion the nationally recognized baseball program Coastal has today. DP-Who are the three best players you played against? KS-Francisco Rodriquez – Anaheim Angles, Hank Blalock – Texas Rangers, Bill Hall – Milwaukee Brewers DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a person and why? KS-A lot of people have made great impressions on me but the person I have the most admiration for is my brother, Tim. He showed me the importance of working smart and attention to details. DP-Who is your favorite athlete outside of baseball? KS-Lawrence Taylor DP-Who is your favorite MLB pitcher and position player, and why? KS-Mariano Rivera and Derek Jeter are both fearless competitors and effective leaders. They always appear to …