Tower Sports Advising Podcast
The Tower Sports Advising Podcast brings you real conversations with current college coaches, travel ball coaches, and both current and former professional players who share their unique baseball experiences and insights. Each episode dives into topics like college recruiting and exposure, navigating different baseball career paths, player development strategies, training tips, balancing academics and athletics, and advice for parents and players looking to reach the next level. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a coach, or a baseball family, you’ll find valuable guidance and honest stories straight from those who’ve lived it. Catch every episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast on YouTube and Spotify.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #1: with Josh Tower, Mitchell College
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, Coach Josh Tower shares his journey from a successful college baseball player to an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at Mitchell College. He discusses the challenges and insights gained from his playing days at Franklin Pierce University and Eastern Connecticut State University, as well as his coaching experiences at Yale and Mitchell. The conversation delves into the nuances of recruiting, the impact of the transfer portal on college baseball, and the importance of player development. Coach Tower emphasizes the significance of character and work ethic in athletes, and how these traits influence recruiting decisions. He also highlights the unique challenges faced by New England baseball players due to weather conditions and the competitive landscape of college baseball.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #2: with Endy Morales, Dean College
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, Andy Morales, head baseball coach at Dean College, joins Zack Tower to share his journey from being a top-ranked pitcher in Massachusetts to leading a collegiate program. Andy reflects on the pressures of being a highly recruited player, his transition into coaching, and the challenges of recruiting at NESCAC schools. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of Northeast baseball, the impact of the transfer portal, and what qualities Andy values most in recruits. He provides valuable advice for aspiring college baseball players, emphasizing player development, passion for the game, and the coaching philosophy that drives success at Dean College.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #3: with Joe Consolmagno, University of Massachusetts-Lowell
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower sits down with Joe Consolmagno, assistant baseball coach at UMass Lowell, to discuss his transition from a standout playing career to coaching. Joe shares insights into the recruiting process, emphasizing the importance of scouting local talent and adapting to the challenges posed by the transfer portal and D1 roster cuts. The conversation also explores the role of indoor training facilities in player development, the growing influence of social media in recruitment, and key attributes he looks for in potential recruits. Joe offers valuable advice for high school athletes aspiring to play college baseball, shedding light on what it takes to succeed at the next level.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #4: with Chad Shade, Amherst College
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Chad Shade, assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for Amherst College. They discuss Chad's journey from player to coach, the differences between coaching at Division I and Division III levels, and the competitive nature of recruiting at NESCAC schools. Chad shares insights on the recruiting process, the impact of the transfer portal, and offers advice for aspiring recruits. The conversation also touches on the importance of social media in recruitment, hitting philosophy, and player development at Amherst College.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #5: with TJ Ward, University of Hartford
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews TJ Ward, assistant coach at the University of Hartford. They discuss TJ's journey from a successful college player to a coach, the challenges of recruiting in the Northeast, the impact of the transfer portal, and the importance of player development. TJ shares insights on what he looks for in recruits, his coaching philosophy, and advice for high school athletes aspiring to play college baseball. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of college baseball and the significance of adaptability and hard work for success.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #6: with Adam Goss, University of Saint Joseph (CT)
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Adam Goss, head coach of the University of St. Joseph, Hartford. They discuss Goss's journey from a successful playing career at Franklin Pierce University to his coaching experiences at Nichols College and USJ. Key themes include the importance of pitching, the impact of the transfer portal, recruitment strategies, and the significance of physical development for aspiring college baseball players. Goss emphasizes the need for players to understand their roles, the value of hard work, and the importance of building relationships in the recruitment process.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #7: with Franklin Jennings, George Washington University
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Franklin Jennings, an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at George Washington University. They discuss Jennings' playing career at Central Connecticut State, his experiences in independent baseball, and his transition into coaching. Jennings shares insights on player development, the importance of work ethic, and the unique challenges of coaching at Army West Point. The conversation also covers recruiting strategies, the impact of the transfer portal, and advice for high school athletes aspiring to play college baseball.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #8: with Jimmy Smith, Rivier University
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Jimmy Smith, head coach at Riviera University. They discuss Jimmy's journey from a successful playing career at Wheaton College to his coaching philosophy and experiences at both Wheaton and Rivier. The conversation covers the importance of team culture, recruiting strategies, the impact of the transfer portal, and advice for aspiring college athletes. They also touch on the future of D3 baseball and the significance of camps and showcases in the recruiting process.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #9: with Kyle Bonicki, Princeton University
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Kyle Bonicki, assistant coach at Princeton University. They discuss Bonicki's journey from a successful college player at Clark University to his coaching career at Amherst and Princeton. The conversation covers various topics including the importance of player development, the recruiting process, coaching philosophies, and the challenges of recruiting in the Northeast. Bonicki shares insights on what he looks for in recruits, the significance of showcases and camps, and the impact of roster management and cuts in college baseball. The episode emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit for both players and coaches in the competitive landscape of college baseball.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #10: with John Friday, Augusta University
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews John Friday, assistant coach at Augusta University, who shares insights from his playing career at Franklin Pierce University and his transition into coaching. John discusses the importance of structure, competition, and the unique challenges of training in the Northeast. He reflects on the experience of playing in the Division II World Series and the evolution of baseball training and recruitment in today's landscape. In this conversation, Zack Tower and John Friday discuss the evolution of youth baseball and the recruiting landscape, emphasizing the importance of unique traits in players, the significance of team culture, and the necessity of training with a competitive mindset. They explore the value of summer ball and high-level competition, the strategic use of social media in the recruitment process, and the implications of the transfer portal in college baseball. In this conversation, John Friday discusses the importance of consistency in player development, the differences in recruiting between the Northeast and South, and offers advice for high school athletes aspiring to play college baseball. He emphasizes the need for individualized approaches to hitting and player development, the significance of finding a suitable college fit, and the evolving role of camps in the recruitment process.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #11: with Dante Ricciardi, Florida Scout for the Boston Red Sox
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Dante Ricciardi, a Florida Scout for the Boston Red Sox. They discuss Dante's playing career, the challenges of being recruited from the Northeast, the importance of playing time, and the evolving landscape of baseball training and recruitment. Dante shares insights on the draft experience, the role of parents in the recruitment process, and how college commitments can impact a player's draft stock. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication, individual development, and the need for players to take charge of their own paths in baseball. In this conversation, Dante Ricciardi and Zack Tower discuss the evolving landscape of college baseball, particularly focusing on the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals on player decisions. They explore how these financial incentives are changing the commitment dynamics for high school players considering college versus professional baseball. The discussion also delves into the importance of evaluating a player's mental makeup and character, emphasizing that these traits can be as crucial as athletic ability in the scouting process. Finally, they address the differences between draftable high school players and those who should consider college first, highlighting the significance of consistent performance and development. In this conversation, Zack Tower and Dante Ricciardi explore the evolving landscape of baseball, discussing the shift in hitting philosophies, the importance of scouting, and the impact of the transfer portal on player development. They delve into the significance of instincts and versatility in modern baseball, the challenges players face after their careers, and the passion required to succeed in the sport. The dialogue emphasizes the need for adaptability and the importance of finding one's place in the game, whether through college, junior college, or professional leagues.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #12: with Alex Carusotto & Kevin Donati, Owners of Rip City Academy
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower sits down with Kevin Donati and Alex Carusotto, former college baseball players and owners of Rip City Academy. They reflect on their playing careers, key lessons learned, and how those experiences now shape their coaching philosophy. The conversation explores the founding of Rip City, the importance of mentorship, and their mission to develop athletes both physically and mentally. They dive into the realities of college recruiting, especially in the Northeast, and emphasize the critical role of video, accountability, and parental support in the process. The episode also covers the impact of the transfer portal and NIL, the evolving demands of the college landscape, and the need for athletes to understand their goals and be realistic about their level of play. Kevin and Alex also share success stories, speak on the value of culture within a program, and talk about their vision for the future growth of Rip City Academy.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #13: with Tj Riccio, Hitting & Catching Instructor at Beast Training
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower speaks with TJ Riccio, a hitting and catching instructor at Beast Training Facility. They discuss TJ's journey through college baseball, the transition to coaching, the impact of bat technology on the game, and the challenges of recruitment in the Northeast. TJ shares valuable insights on how players can navigate the recruitment process, the importance of character over talent, and the misconceptions families often have about college baseball opportunities. In this conversation, TJ Riccio and Zack Tower discuss the multifaceted aspects of player development in baseball, emphasizing the importance of exposure, individualized training, and the balance between skill development and recruitment. They explore the challenges faced by less recruited players, misunderstandings in the development process, and the significance of mental toughness in distinguishing good players from great ones. The discussion also highlights the evolving landscape of college baseball recruitment, the importance of adaptability, and the value of enjoying the journey in sports.
Tower Sports Advising Podcast #14: with Cody Kauffman, Head Coach at Rhode Island College
In this episode of the Tower Sports Advising Podcast, host Zack Tower interviews Cody Kaufman, head baseball coach at Rhode Island College. They discuss Cody's journey from a college player at UMass Amherst and Franklin Pierce to his current coaching role. Key themes include the importance of competition, the evolution of college baseball, and the significance of developing raw talent. Cody shares insights from his experiences with USA Baseball and the differences between coaching at D1, D2, and D3 levels, particularly in New England. The conversation highlights the changing landscape of recruiting and the need for coaches to adapt to new challenges in the sport. In this conversation, Cody Kauffman discusses the evolving landscape of college baseball recruitment, emphasizing the challenges posed by the transfer portal and the importance of finding raw talent. He shares insights on effective recruitment strategies, the significance of high school games, and the transition freshmen must make to succeed at the college level. Kauffman highlights the necessity of building relationships and fostering a culture of accountability within his program, while also stressing the importance of player development and the need for open communication between coaches and athletes.