Getting the Scoop

Julie Thompson – A Baseball Factory Parent’s Perspective

I’m not an advocate of believing everything you see or hear on the field. But sometimes the most important information you learn about a college baseball program doesn’t come from the literature or coaching staff – it comes from the other students and players, and the people close to them. Flyers, meetings with coaches, and admissions tours are great ways to get to know a college. There’s nothing like your son spending some time with the team, though, and everybody taking in a game or two.

Beautiful sunny days and baseball just go together. So do conversations, bleachers and concession stands. Sometimes general observations are all you need. Parents who have been involved with the team can lend some helpful insight regarding matters that don’t always come up in more formal meetings and interviews. Watching a game provides a perfect backdrop for honest and candid conversation. Try to pick your spots, though. Some people just want to watch the game and not be bothered with anything else – and of course, you want to be respectful of the atmosphere’s tone. If the game’s a nail-biter, pick another time for ball field chat! Go with your gut – after all your years on the field, you’ll know who to talk to, and when the time is best.

Most of the conversations I’ve had at the field have flowed easily. People can relate to the fact that you’re a potential newcomer, and are pleased to impart some stories and advice. A short time at a game can give you a pretty good idea of the overall tone of the crowd, as well as some specifics. I’ve met parents with whom I’ve later exchanged emails, and I’ve also sat with a few groups that made me want to join the other team! I’ve learned about the 30 minute bus ride (without traffic) a player takes from a local hotel because the dorms weren’t ready; or the way injuries get treated with a lack of urgency. Kyle spent some time checking out the speed the radar gun gauged from a pitcher, and factored some unimpressive speeds into the comments of the team’s very optimistic coach. The character of the players (as well as the characters among the players…), and the way they are treated by the coach, is more information best gleaned on site.

Here’s some information you might want to find out:

(1) What happens during injuries? Can the players be seen right on campus (is the infirmary open on week-ends and evenings?) or do they have to go to a local hospital? What quality of care have players received? Is there a sense of urgency in seeing a specialist or getting a test done (i.e. X-ray, MRI)? When a player is first injured, does anyone (coach, assistant coach, trainer, captain, teammate) follow-up to see how he is doing, or is he left on his own? How accessible are the athletic trainers, and what are their roles and backgrounds? How is someone treated by the coaching staff and other players, in general, if he is injured? Will he still feel he’s a part of the team?

(2) Are there any rules that seem unique (or quirky!) to that particular coach or league? What things should the players avoid doing because they drive the coach crazy?! How does the coach respond when players do those things? What’s his motivational style? A coach’s ‘being tough’ may be interpreted as ‘being berated’ by those on the receiving end of the comments. Does someone on the coaching staff communicate with players, or are players pretty much left guessing where they stand? Can players have facial hair? Tattoos? Wear sunglasses? No coach will please everybody, but consistent comments from players or parents should raise a red flag.

(3) How much camaraderie is there on the team? Do the players get together outside of baseball? What do they do? Or, do they tend to be independent or even protective of their own space? How long does it tend to take before ‘the new guys’ become fully accepted members of the team – does it ‘roll down’ on freshmen and transfers?

Baseball won’t be the only part of your son’s life at college – but it probably accounts for a large part of his identity and definitely, his time. The baseball experience – from the coaching staff to the players – can become an anchor for a sense of belonging. On the other hand, too many negative surprises can dampen the outlook of even the most enthusiastic player.

College baseball is your son’s journey – he is the one who is there and has more firsthand information than his at-home parents. Besides, as a maturing adult, he needs to learn to be his own advocate. Not to say we parents can’t support and guide (and yes, sometimes step in). In my experience, though, information from program veterans – taken with some perspective – can help put all concerned a little higher on the learning curve.



Julie Thompson is a parent of a former Baseball Factory Exclusive Program player. She has volunteered to share her opinions, observations and general thoughts regarding the college recruiting and player development process. She will share what worked and what didn’t for her son, in the hope that other parents and players may benefit from her experience.