A little about Zach:
He is a senior graduating this April with a focus on secondary education with a major in social studies and a minor in history. He is currently the assistant varsity baseball coach at Schoolcraft High School.
Why did you get involved with coaching baseball?
I got involved with baseball for several reasons. First, I have always had a passion for baseball. Second, I like to help students outside the classroom as well as inside. On the baseball field I get to teach qualities such as teamwork and the importance of communication, which sometimes is difficult in an economics classroom. I also feel that it is important to see student’s skills that are not classroom related. I was strongly influenced by several of my coaches and teachers in the past, and I feel that it is my responsibility to pay it forward.
What is your favorite part of coaching?
My favorite part of coaching is watching players develop skills over time; it is exciting for both the coach and the players when new skills are acquired.
When did you start coaching?
I started coaching several years after I graduated high school. In high school I played for Courtney Jasiak (Schoolcraft’s current head coach) after graduating I assisted him at Paw Paw High School, a year or two later I was the head freshman baseball coach at Mattawan High School. Currently I am assistant varsity coach at Schoolcraft High School with Coach Courtney Jasiak, its crazy how things work out. GO EAGLES!!!!
Would you recommend coaching to others?
I would definitely recommend coaching to my peers and friends. I would warn them that coaching is a very time consuming job, but the pros outweigh the cons.
Do you have any advice for those who want get involved with coaching?
The only advice I would give is to always remain patient with players and students. The skills that are acquired on the field and in the classroom take time to develop. This job can be irritating at times, but it is fun and rewarding.