NAIA or NCAA: Finding the Right Fit with Nick Strong

💪 What does it take to play college baseball at the next level?

In Episode 20 of the Student Athlete Performance Podcast, Nick Lemke sits down with Nick Strong, Head Baseball Coach at Florida National University, to discuss the college recruiting landscape, what makes athletes truly stand out, and why the right fit is more important than the name of the school.

Coach Strong offers insights from his experience coaching and scouting for various levels, including NAIA and NCAA, helping athletes understand how to best navigate the recruiting process.

 

🔥 Key Takeaways:

🎯 Academic Fit Comes First – Coach Strong emphasizes the importance of academic alignment when selecting a college.
💬 Communication and Initiative – Athletes need to drive their own recruiting process. It’s not just about skill; coaches look for players who communicate well and show genuine interest in the program.
⚾ The Realities of College Recruiting – There’s no “NAIA” or “D1” player stereotype. Many players transition between divisions throughout their careers, and it’s the skills and mindset that matter most.
💪 Handling Setbacks – Mental toughness is critical. Whether it’s being benched as a freshman or dealing with failure, Coach Strong explains why handling adversity is the mark of a true competitor.

---

Follow Nick Strong:

• Twitter: https://x.com/nickstrong
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachnickstrong/
• Website: http://www.nickstrongonline.com/

Follow Nick Lemke:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicklemkerd
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicklemkerd
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/nicklemkerd

 

🎧 Subscribe to the Student Athlete Performance Podcast for more episodes focused on helping athletes maximize their potential.