EPISODE 9 - EDDIE SMITH

In this episode, Curtis Pelletier talks to Coach Eddie Smith, head coach at Utah Valley, about his coaching experiences and the world of college baseball. They discuss topics such as recruiting, coaching at different levels, the importance of intensity and preparation, and the growth of college baseball. Eddie shares his experiences coaching at Lower Columbia College, Tulane, LSU, and Notre Dame, highlighting the unique aspects of each program. They also touch on the passion for baseball in different regions, such as the Southeast and Louisiana. In this conversation, Eddie Smith discusses the importance of enjoying the game and not just focusing on the next level. He emphasizes the benefits of junior college and finding a level where players can make an impact. He also talks about the qualities he looks for in high school players, including talent, winning history, work ethic, and academic performance. Smith highlights the significance of strength and mental training in player development. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for high school players and coaches.

Keywords

college baseball, coaching, recruiting, intensity, preparation, growth, regional differences, enjoying the game, junior college, finding the right level, high school players, talent, winning history, work ethic, academic performance, strength training, mental training, player development

Takeaways

• Coaching college baseball requires intense recruiting and preparation, regardless of the level or resources available.
• The passion for college baseball varies by region, with the Southeast and Louisiana being particularly enthusiastic.
• The growth of college baseball has elevated its status as a revenue-generating sport and increased its popularity.
• Building a successful program requires a commitment to excellence and a focus on daily habits and intensity.
• Coaches must balance their personal lives with the demands of the job, finding support from family and maintaining a high level of focus.
• Each coaching experience, from junior college to Division 1, offers unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Players should enjoy the game and not just focus on the next level.
• Junior college can be a great option for players to make an impact early on.
• Finding the right level that fits a player's abilities is important.
• High school players should have a winning history and make their team better.
• Strength training is a crucial aspect of player development.
• Mental training and having the right mindset are essential for success in baseball.

Titles

• Balancing Personal Life and Coaching Demands
• The Growth and Popularity of College Baseball The Benefits of Junior College
• The Importance of Enjoying the Game

Sound Bites

• "Friday nights are one in the middle of the summer on the recruiting trail."
• "Baseball doesn't give a shit about your life."
• "It was a cool thing to be able to put on that uniform, have Irish across your chest, and an amazing experience."
• "Go win that state championship. Go enjoy your graduation with your friends that you grew up with, your prom and all those things that come along with high school experience that you only get to experience one time."
• "Finding a level where you can go in and play early on, I think, is important."
• "There's no substitute for talent and a lot of times talent is decided by your size and strength."