The 2021 Virginia Baseball Coaches Association (VBCA) Convention kicked off on Thursday, December 9th at the Tuckahoe Sports Training Center in Henrico County. Over 130 coaches from across the state came to listen and learn from the talented group of speakers and to have an opportunity to view some outstanding products from the vendors who were present.
The University of Richmond staff (Josh Epstein and Nate Mulberg) started the night off followed by presentations from ML Morgan (Mid-Atlantic Area Scout for the Tampa Bay Rays) and Ray Hedrick (RMC Head Coach).Ā Rich Witten (VCU) capped the night off with his āModern Hitting Made Simpleā presentation.
A reception followed on Thursday for all coaches and vendors.
Friday morning, Monte Lee, Head Coach from Clemson University, spoke about his hitting keys and he was followed up by Russ Steinhorn from the ST. Louis Cardinals who had a great PowerPoint on the Cardinals hitting philosophy.
Other speakers on the agenda were Robbie Robinson (New York Mets), Tyler Gillum (South Mountain CC), Barry Davis ( Rider University), and Bill Berry (Tennessee Wesleyan).
Friday night was capped off with a Hot stove discussion featuring Shawn Stiffler (Head Coach VCU), Scott Jackson (Head Coach Liberty University), Chris Finwood (Head Coach Old Dominion University), and Drew Dickinson (Pitching Coach University of Virginia).
The coaches gave their insights on what it is like competing in the NCAA Regionals and how they prepared their teams.
On Saturday, the final day of the convention, Pat Pinkman (Pitching Coach, Seton Hall University) spoke on Balling’ on a Budget and Nunzio Signore from Rockland Peak Performance gave an excellent demo on training overhead throwers. The coaches then had an opportunity to hear from all a panel of HS coaches who won states.
Josh Rudd (independent Scout) and Jerry Shank (Prep Baseball Report) concluded the day with a discussion on recruiting.
The convention was packed with great information and opportunities for coaches from all levels to share their passion and knowledge for coaching the sport of baseball.
Tim Merry, Executive Director of the VBCA, moved the event from a hotel to baseball facility and thought the change made a real difference.
Tuckahoe Sports Inc. proved to be an excellent venue for our third annual convention. Presenters were able to combine PowerPoint presentations with live demonstrations on the turf infield and in the cages.
Logistically, the food and beverage portion of the convention fit conveniently in and around the presentations and the classrooms provided excellent breakout options. Vendors had prime space on the infield and direct access to attendees. The TSI staff provided ultimate hospitality in a very professional manner. ~Tim Merry
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