Next up on the ABCA Podcast is our second 2025 recipient of the Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award, Tom Meyer. Meyer has served as both a teacher and baseball coach for more than 60 years. His coaching career began in 1959 as assistant coach at Northwestern University (Ill.). From 1964-69, Meyer served as the head baseball coach at Northern Illinois University before joining the staff at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During the summers of 1975 and 1977, Meyer also coached the Swedish National Team. In 1985, Meyer started the baseball program at Brookfield (Wisc.) Academy before being named head coach at Riverside University High School (Wisc.) in 1990. Now an assistant for the Riverside team, Meyer has been involved with the program for more than 30 years. A co-founder of both the Wisconsin Baseball Coaches Association (WBCA) and the University of Wisconsin Dugout Club, Meyer also played a key role in developing the Milwaukee RBI League that included an instructional program, an eight-team Select League, and an all-star travel team that competed in the RBI Regional Tournament. Meyer's involvement in baseball extends to having served as a past chair of both the ABCA's Editorial and Public Relations Committees.

Our sponsor is Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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With nearly five decades of coaching experience spanning multiple continents, Bill Percy is a true icon of the game. The distinguished recipient of the 2025 ABCA/Wilson Lefty Gomez Award, Percy has made a lasting impact on baseball locally, nationally, and internationally. In this episode, we explore Percy’s incredible journey, which began at Florida Southern College as both a player and assistant coach under ABCA Hall of Famer Hal Smeltzly.

Percy’s high school coaching career saw remarkable success in Colorado Springs, where he led Palmer and Mitchell High Schools to multiple state championship appearances, earning ABCA/Diamond Sports High School Regional Coach of the Year honors in 1999. Beyond the U.S., Percy’s international coaching contributions and work with USA Baseball have cemented his legacy as a global ambassador of the game. Now an assistant coach at Northeastern Junior College and Executive Director of the Colorado Dugout Club Coaches Association, Percy shares invaluable insights on coaching, mentorship, and the enduring power of baseball.

Our sponsor is Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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Jarvis recently completed his 27th season at the helm of the Bruins, where he has compiled 763 wins since leading the program in its first NCAA Division I season in 1998. As Belmont’s all-time winningest coach, Jarvis has built a legacy of excellence. Adding to his remarkable career, he has achieved over 1,000 wins, including his tenure as head coach at his alma mater, Three Rivers Community College, and gained valuable experience as an assistant at Murray State.

Known for his humility and character, Coach Jarvis exemplifies what it means to be an ABCA Hall of Famer. Tune in to hear his reflections on a lifetime in coaching, the lessons learned along the way, and the values that have defined his incredible career.

Our sponsor is Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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Happy New Year! It’s time to kick off 2025 with a bang, as the World’s Largest Baseball Convention is in the nation’s capital for the first time since 1975!

The 81st annual ABCA Convention promises to be an unforgettable event, bringing together the best in the game for four days of education, inspiration, and connection.

This is a must-listen, whether you're attending in-person or participating in the Clinics Live Video Stream! In today’s episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know to make the most of this extraordinary event. From keynote speakers and panel discussions to the Trade Show and networking opportunities, we’ve got all the details to ensure your experience is nothing short of spectacular.

Our mission each year is to create an unforgettable event for our members, guests, sponsors, and exhibitors—and this year is no exception. We can’t wait to welcome you to Washington, D.C., from January 2nd to the 5th, for an incredible start to the new year. See you there!

Our sponsor is Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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This week on the ABCA Podcast, we celebrate Dan Griesbaum, head coach at Grosse Pointe South (MI) High School and the recipient of the prestigious 2025 ABCA/Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award.

Griesbaum has dedicated 41 years to Grosse Pointe South, taking over as head coach in 1984 and amassing over 900 wins—the most among active coaches in Michigan. A former player and assistant coach at Central Michigan under the awards' namesake, Dave Keilitz, Griesbaum embodies the values of integrity and leadership that this award represents.

Named after Dave Keilitz, the ABCA Executive Director from 1994-2014 and legendary Central Michigan University head coach and athletic director, the award honors those who uphold the highest standards in coaching.

Tune in as we reflect on Griesbaum’s incredible career, his lasting impact on the game, and the significance of being recognized with this award.

Our sponsor is Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

gital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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It’s an exciting week as the ABCA Convention kicks off this Thursday, and we’re rolling out episodes with the incoming ABCA Hall of Famers!

Joining us first is University of Texas head coach, and former 2023 ABCA President, Jim Schlossnagle. A member of the ABCA Board of Directors, Schlossnagle is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier baseball coaches. Over his 23-year head coaching career, he has taken programs at Texas A&M and TCU to historic heights, amassing 945 career wins and becoming one of only four coaches to win multiple College World Series games with multiple programs.

Schlossnagle began his coaching journey on Rick Jones’ staff at Elon, where he also played collegiately, before continuing their success together at Tulane. With his exceptional career achievements, leadership in the ABCA, and engaging personality, this episode promises is as inspiring as it is entertaining!

Our sponsor is Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

Joining us this week on the ABCA Podcast is ABCA NJCAA Division III Assistant Coach of the Year, Ramon Garza.

Recently named the head coach at Dallas College Mountain View, Garza reflects on his incredible run with Dallas College Eastfield, where he helped lead the team to the NJCAA World Series last season. Eastfield had a stellar year, winning the Dallas Athletic Conference title with a 25-5 record in league play. Garza’s coaching journey includes a stint as an assistant at UT-Dallas, following his playing career at Cornell in the Ivy League.

In this episode, Coach Garza shares his blueprint for coaching the next generation of players, offering invaluable insights into leadership, player development, and fostering a winning culture.

This episode is sponsored by Core Energy Belt, the trusted choice of professional baseball players in both Japan and the USA. With over 700 professionals, including two former MVPs, relying on these belts, Core Energy has established itself as a leader in performance and durability. I've been wearing their belts for a while now, and the added back support has made a noticeable difference both on and off the field. They offer free shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Go to CoreEnergyBelt.com & use code abca2025 to save 15% on your first purchase.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

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Martinez played a pivotal role in leading Jesuit High School (FL) to their seventh State Championship and third since 2019. Jesuit, a perennial powerhouse in Florida and on the national scene, consistently tackles one of the toughest schedules in the country. Martinez, who oversees hitters and infielders, brings decades of experience from his time as a standout player at the University of Tampa—where he won a National Championship in 1998 alongside Jesuit head coach Miguel Menendez—and his four seasons of professional baseball. In addition to his coaching success, Martinez also teaches K-8 at Trinity School for Children.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Jesuit’s winning culture and the strategies behind their sustained excellence.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

This episode is supported by VELO Sports. Take your game and your bat speed to the next level with VELO Sports. With over 10 years of experience in speed training, VELO Sports has released the easiest and fastest way to help all players increase bat speed. VELO Sports is used by MLB organizations and Collegiate teams who know that bat speed is a true game changer. Check out VELO’s innovative bat speed training system and removable Puck Knob Tech today at www.velosports.com.

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A Birmingham-Southern alum, Hulse spent nine seasons coaching the Panthers, playing a key role in their remarkable 2024 run to the College World Series under extraordinary circumstances. Over the past seven years, Hulse helped guide Birmingham Southern to six NCAA Regional appearances and two trips to the College World Series.

Following the program’s closure this spring, Hulse moved to Valdosta State, joining longtime mentor Jan Weisberg. With additional coaching experience at Louisiana Tech, Hulse brings a wealth of knowledge on building competitive programs and navigating adversity.

Tune in as Hulse shares insights from his incredible journey, from Birmingham Southern to Valdosta State, and the lessons learned along the way.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

This episode is supported by VELO Sports. Take your game and your bat speed to the next level with VELO Sports. With over 10 years of experience in speed training, VELO Sports has released the easiest and fastest way to help all players increase bat speed. VELO Sports is used by MLB organizations and Collegiate teams who know that bat speed is a true game changer. Check out VELO’s innovative bat speed training system and removable Puck Knob Tech today at www.velosports.com.

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Vickerson has been a key part of the Shelton State baseball program for 11 seasons as both a coach and former player. In 2024, the Bucs posted an impressive 44-19 record, setting a school record with 28 conference wins and earning a trip to the JUCO World Series in Grand Junction, Colorado. 

A former standout centerfielder for the Bucs in 2012 and 2013, Vickerson capped off his playing career in the SEC at Mississippi State.

Tune in to hear his insights on coaching, player development, and building a winning program.

The ABCA Podcast is presented by Netting Pros. Netting Professionals are improving programs one facility at a time, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom netting for backstops, batting cages, dugouts, bp screens and ball carts. They also design and install digital graphic wall padding windscreen, turf, turf protectors, dugout benches, dugout cubbies and more.

This episode is supported by VELO Sports. Take your game and your bat speed to the next level with VELO Sports. With over 10 years of experience in speed training, VELO Sports has released the easiest and fastest way to help all players increase bat speed. VELO Sports is used by MLB organizations and Collegiate teams who know that bat speed is a true game changer. Check out VELO’s innovative bat speed training system and removable Puck Knob Tech today at www.velosports.com.

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