What or who influenced you into becoming a baseball coach?
My father (Stan Hannon) has been coaching since before I was born. He still coaches to this day. After my last season playing college ball. He told me that I would be a great coach. He taught me everything about the game and life. I try to teach the game the way I learned from him.
Coach Goodwin, he has been very influential in my life as a man and a coach. He always gave me the truth and demanded accountability.
What did you learn at your previous school that you’ll apply at Stephenson?
I learned that accountability and Long Term Athletic Development, not just the game of baseball but for the student athlete. I want all my players to be successful people in life and if baseball helios, that is a bonus.
What is your philosophy as a coach?
I believe in Discipline, Accountability and Effort. I feel those things relate to life in so many ways. Applying them will not only give the student/athlete better in their craft but also in life. Being able to handle those three tasks daily will build a strong person and player. I preach those three values daily.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a head coach so far in your career?
Commitment, there are so many things that are available today that can cause distractions. It is very easy to get away from your craft if you don’t have the mental toughness to focus on your craft.
When coming to a new program, how do you gain the confidence and trust of your players?
I build off from day one showing up daily. I believe in leading by example and showing that I am human and make mistakes. What we do after we make a mistake is important. Every day I tell my boys we’re going to do everything together. There is no person bigger or better than the other. We all will reach the goals putting in the work together as a family.
How important do you feel your role is in helping your student athletes get recruited?
I feel it is extremely important. Those four years built on trust, relationship and family matter for their future. I preach getting their studies, testing and documentation in asap so the process will be smoother. I encourage camps for recruiters and showcases that will get coaches attention. I use my contacts and network to put them in the best situation possible.
What are your keys to victory?
Accountability, effort and doing your job. If we’re fighting together, applying what we practice daily and playing team first baseball. Those keys will earn wins. I always say whichever team makes the routine play in the tight situation usually comes out on top. The spectacular plays will take care of themselves.
Submit your questions - CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW
NEXT INTERVIEW - JAMES MATTISON, LINCOLN COUNTY
