Above The Whistle
Welcome to Above The Whistle. The podcast that takes you beyond the X's and O's and into the mindset of greatness as we sit down with coaches/athletic directors/former players across the country.
Above The Whistle
Coach Kim Nelson: For the Love of the Game
What does it take to become the National Baseball Coach of the Year? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Coach Kim Nelson, who has been honored with this prestigious title in 2023. Coach Nelson shares his incredible journey from being a standout player at BYU, mentored by the legendary Glenn Tuckett, to representing the USA internationally and transitioning into a highly successful coaching career. He fondly reminisces about his time as a player and deeply appreciates the collective effort of the Timpanogos baseball program, highlighting the invaluable support from parents, assistant coaches, and administrators.
Discover the heart and soul behind building a winning baseball program as Coach Nelson opens up about his career, his transition from professional player with the Twins to high school coach, and the early years marked by impressive achievements. Reflecting on over 700 wins and nine state championships, Coach Nelson emphasizes the crucial role of family support, the qualities he seeks in players and assistants, and the importance of hard work and love for the game. He also shares memorable seasons and the impact of senior leadership on sustaining success within the Timpanogos program.
The episode also takes a deep look into the evolving trends in high school baseball, with a particular focus on pitching strategies. Coach Nelson discusses the implications of changes in state tournaments, pitch counts, and the increasing trend of arm injuries and burnout among young players. As he addresses the challenges posed by travel baseball and the decline in youth participation, Coach Nelson underscores the importance of balancing team success with individual player development. Tune in for valuable insights and thoughtful reflections from one of the most respected figures in high school baseball coaching in the state of Utah.
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