Part 3: Baseball Development with Dace Kime

In this episode of the podcast/newsletter, we wrap up our discussion with Dace Kime. We try to bring everything full circle with Dace as we discuss what he would do different knowing what he knows now, thoughts on his own kids when it comes to sports, and issues with the identity crisis that inevitably follows when you are done playing. Looking back at the journey with someone who has made it to such a high level we felt offered some great insights that hopefully parents and players can use.

We begin with the million dollar question: What would you do differently knowing what you know now. He states he probably would have just worked harder, although he feels he really did work hard and put in the time. He states being a three sport athlete only allowed him so much time for training. I’m sure everyone feels this way looking back and thinking they could have worked harder, but then realizing there are only so many hours in the day. He does say he would definitely have started strength and power work sooner as this can really make a difference. He didn’t really start anything like that until high school and he feels sooner would have been better.

We discussed the struggle Dace went through when he decided to medically retire and the identity crisis that followed. Dace states he went through a whole mess and really didn’t know who he was anymore and what he was going to do next. He was very lost. We discussed if this is something that kids should be made more aware of as they go deeper and deeper into their sports journey. The conversation transitioned into an understanding of the nature of goals. Sometimes the trouble with goals is that you can loose sight of the journey. If your goal is to make it to the pros or get a D1 scholarship, then if that doesn’t happen by definition you have failed. However, taking stock of the journey and appreciating the talent you have developed, the mastery you have pursued, and the people and places that have defined that journey could be more helpful. Dace repeatedly states that even if you didn’t get a D1 offer, but you did get an NAIA offer, view it as an opportunity instead of failure.

Finally, we discuss Dace’s views on travel baseball/sports. He is a bit torn on the subject (probably like most people). He can see the side of it where it can be largely a money grab and simply marketing to the egos of parents. However, it also can’t be denied that if done correctly in can get eyes on you earlier and perhaps open up opportunities that may not have existed. When we asked Dace whether he thought it was necessary to play travel sports, he said he’s really not sure (for the above reasons). He is a fan of letting your child play sports and giving them opportunities to continue playing if they are truly passionate about it. But whether or not you need to play travel is an open question. It may depend more on where you live. In many cities, local baseball is probably competitive enough for most kids. However, if you live in a city with a population of 200 and your child is truly passionate about baseball, travel would probably make more sense.

We are very thankful that Dace took the time to sit down with us and chat. He now owns a general contracting business here in Fort Wayne Indiana. If anybody is interested in these services, check him out here (no, we do not get any commissions, lol).

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