Overcoming Adversity in College Baseball: A Pitcher’s Journey Through Setbacks and Resilience

College baseball is a dream for many young athletes, but it’s not always a smooth path. For one pitcher from Malden, West Virginia, the journey was filled with unexpected adversity: an unfair coaching decision, an injury, and a lack of structured support. Yet, through resilience, humility, and a relentless work ethic, he turned setbacks into a story of triumph. This blog dives into his experience, offering lessons for athletes, coaches, and parents on navigating challenges in college sports.

Have you experienced a setback that was not your doing? Let us know in the video comments. Your story could help someone else.

The Harsh Reality of Unfair Setbacks

When this pitcher arrived at his small college program, he was filled with promise. Recruited by top programs like the University of New Orleans, he expected personalized coaching to elevate his game. Instead, he faced a harsh reality: his pitching slot was dropped by Coach McLeod for no clear reason.

“There was no reason to do that, but that sets you back,” he shared on the Sore to Soaring Podcast with Coach Leo Young.

This decision wasn’t just a blow to his confidence—it disrupted his development. For young athletes, unfair setbacks like this can feel like the end of the road. But this pitcher’s story shows how adversity, even when caused by others, can become a catalyst for growth.

Growing Up Humble: A Foundation for Resilience

The pitcher’s ability to push through adversity was rooted in his upbringing. Raised in Malden, West Virginia—a small town with a single flashing light—he grew up in a “holler” with limited resources. His mother worked three jobs to support his sports dreams, and meals were often leftovers from Monday’s casserole.

“I was taught to be humble,” he said. “Let the scoreboard do the talking.”

This humility kept him grounded when faced with challenges like injuries and rumors of an “attitude problem” spread by coaches. For athletes facing similar obstacles, a strong personal foundation—built on values like humility and hard work—can be a lifeline.

The Impact of a Disorganized Program

The pitcher’s college program lacked the structure needed to support its athletes. After an injury in his freshman year, he felt neglected, saying, “I didn’t feel like I was getting the attention as a pitcher that I needed.” Without proper arm care, recovery protocols, or individualized coaching, his development stalled.

This is a common issue in smaller or developing college programs. Coaches may be talented, but without systems in place—workload management, mechanics training, or injury prevention plans—athletes are at risk. The pitcher’s injury was a direct result of this disorganized environment, highlighting the need for structured player development.

The Temptation to Quit—and Why He Stayed

Frustrated by his injury, lack of support, and a missed signing date to transfer, the pitcher nearly walked away from baseball. He even considered a career as a Florida Highway Patrol trooper.

“I made a bad decision and packed things in and quit,” he admitted.

But something kept him from leaving entirely. Part of it was his immaturity as an 18-year-old, part was his loyalty to the program, and part was his unwillingness to let adversity define him. Instead of transferring, he stayed, worked through his frustration, and recommitted to his craft. This decision became a turning point, proving that resilience isn’t about avoiding mistakes—it’s about learning from them.

Lessons for Athletes: Staying Ready for Your Moment

One of the biggest takeaways from this pitcher’s story is the importance of staying ready, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Despite setbacks, he maintained his work ethic and humility, which prepared him to seize opportunities when they arose. His story echoes a core principle from Sore to Soaring: preparation meets opportunity in the face of chaos.

For young athletes, this means focusing on what you can control: your effort, attitude, and recovery. Even if your program lacks structure or you face unfair treatment, staying disciplined can set you up for success.

Lessons for Coaches: Building Trust and Systems

Coaches play a critical role in helping athletes navigate adversity. This pitcher’s experience shows that decisions—like dropping a player’s slot without cause—can have lasting impacts. Coaches must prioritize clear communication, trust, and structured development plans to protect their athletes.

At Sore to Soaring, we emphasize building systems that include:

• Arm care and recovery protocols

• Individualized pitching development plans

• Transparent communication with players

These systems not only prevent injuries but also foster trust, ensuring athletes feel valued and supported.

Why Resilience Matters in College Baseball

This pitcher’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience. Despite an unfair setback, an injury, and the temptation to quit, he emerged stronger. His story reminds us that college baseball isn’t just about talent—it’s about navigating challenges with grit and humility.

For athletes, parents, and coaches, the lesson is clear: adversity is inevitable, but how you respond defines your future. By staying ready, building strong systems, and leaning on core values, you can turn setbacks into soaring success.

Learn More About Sore to Soaring

At Sore to Soaring, we’re a nonprofit dedicated to helping athletes train smarter, stay injury-free, and develop skills for success beyond the game. Our mission is to provide coaches and players with the tools to build resilient, structured programs that prevent burnout and injury.

Support our mission at: www.soretosoaring.org

Disclaimer: The views shared are those of the guest and do not represent an endorsement by Lupos Initiative Inc., DBA Sore to Soaring. This content is for informational purposes only and not medical or training advice. Always consult a qualified professional before starting any exercise or throwing program. No affiliation or compensation exists between Sore to Soaring and any for-profit entity mentioned.

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