In 1987, when I was just eleven years old, a song came out that would echo through my life like a mantra. That song was “I Ain’t No Joke” by Eric B. & Rakim. Even as a kid, I felt the power of its lyrics, but one verse, in particular, has stayed with me throughout my journey:
“Competin’, ’cause I just put your mind on pause
And I complete when, you compare my rhyme wit’ yours
I wake you up and as I stare in your face you seem stunned
Remember me, the one you got your idea from
But soon you start to suffer, the tune’ll get rougher
When you start to stutter, that’s when you had enough of
Bitin’, it’ll make you choke, you can’t provoke
You can’t cope, you should’ve broke, because I ain’t no joke.”
The line, “Remember me, the one you got your idea from,” still rings loud and true for me today. It resonates with my journey as a transformative force, someone who shapes intentional growth through measurement, methodology, and mentorship. Advocacy and sponsorship follow as we chase greatness together. Results speak, and I aim to be the catalyst for extraordinary journeys. More than a coach, I strive to be a catalyst for helping others become their best selves.
Becoming More Than a Coach
This journey, this transformation into who I am today, did not happen in isolation. Two incredible men, Joe Logan and Ed Hartwell, played pivotal roles in helping me become who I am.
I first met Joe Logan over 25 years ago while working at the Ken Griffey Jr. baseball camps, which were organized by Did You? Sports. I connected with them through Antonio Grissom’s recommendation. The camp was an amazing experience that allowed me to travel, bring my family, and enjoy great accommodations and pay. Joe Logan quickly became my mentor and sponsor. He taught me how to excel in coaching and gave me the opportunities to put those lessons into action. His guidance was instrumental in shaping my early career and laying the groundwork for everything that followed.
Then there’s Ed Hartwell, also known as “Deacon.” I can’t recall exactly how we met, but I’m eternally grateful to whoever made that introduction. Ed taught me the art of scouting. For over 15 years, Ed has traveled with me and/or inspired and encouraged me to ensure that I learned the right way to scout. He introduced me to key figures in the scouting community and made sure I earned their respect and trust. His investment in my growth was about more than just knowledge; it was about ensuring I was positioned for success.
Blending Coaching and Scouting
In 2007, I decided to merge my skills in coaching and scouting by starting a sports management group called Diamond Directors Sports Management with my wife, Kelli. For two years, we advised 10 players in the MLB Draft, and six of those players made it to the Major Leagues. Combining my expertise in coaching and scouting allowed me to find diamonds in the rough and make them shine.
Today, I am proud to say that I have coached, mentored, and inspired several scouts, coaches, and agents of various backgrounds. This diversity enriches the sports world, and I am honored to have contributed to it.
Acknowledgment and Legacy
I am who I am because of the information and experiences—what I call knowledge—afforded to me by many people. But today, I specifically want to honor Joe Logan and Ed Hartwell. They have been instrumental in my journey, pouring into me the wisdom and guidance that have shaped my career.
I want to receive credit for what I’ve done, with God receiving the glory. It’s important to me. I want my name mentioned when I’ve done something good—not out of selfishness, but out of respect. Acknowledgment encourages innovation and inspiration. It feels good to be honored and to have your name recognized for your contributions.
We need to change the game when it comes to acknowledging people by name. Doing so fosters a culture of respect and builds a legacy defined by what we leave in people. As Eric B. said, “Remember me, the one you got your idea from.”
Let’s celebrate those who have shaped us, and in doing so, inspire the next generation to value the importance of legacy and the impact of mentorship.