Willing to do what is necessary to compete and be successful
July 6th, 2010 - byNCSA coaches corner got to hear from Lyndon State college assistant softball coach Bill Johnson about recruiting – read his excerpts below:
- How would you describe yourself as a coach? I’m a passionate, outgoing coach whose only desire is to see our players succeed on the field, in the class room and in life. I enjoy watching our players grow into mature, responsible, hard working individuals who are willing to do what is necessary to compete and be successful.
2. What is unique about the experience at Lyndon State College? Lyndon is the quintessential small-college experience. Classes are no bigger than 20 people and as an athlete, nearly everyone on campus knows who you are. I believe our motto says it best: “Lyndon: Serious Study, Serious Fun.”
3. What do recruits need to know about you? That I am here to serve them – academically & athletically. Their success is our success.
4. What do you look for in recruits? First and foremost, I try to gauge their attitude and aptitude towards academics. As a Division III institution where student-athletes are investing in their education, it is paramount that they take their studies seriously. From a talent standpoint, I like players who are athletic, knowledgeable and know the value of being competitive. Emotionally, wee need for players who live for the “big moment”, are a joy to have as a teammate and exhibit leadership qualities.
5. What is the one thing every recruit needs to do with the recruiting process? Weigh their options. Not every school is a perfect fit because they have a competitive softball program. When considering a college, a recruit should base their decision on a variety of things. Do they have my major? Am I consistent with the type of student who goes there? What doors will my degree open for me upon graduation and, of course, can I step in and play immediately?
6. What sort of questions do you really like to hear from recruits? How do your players balance academics & athletics? Do you have an academic monitoring program? If I come here, what will my role be?
7. What turns you off when you are recruiting a student athlete? Those who procrastinate in responding to calls, e-mails and letters. More simply put, those who are unwilling to tell you they are not interested.
8. What do you think your program is the most successful at? Losing with grace. In the 2010 season, we lost 21 games, many by the mercy rule. Despite the dismal season – which has resulted in an outstanding recruit year thus far – our players played with dignity and won our conference’s Sportsmanship Award.
9. Why should a recruit consider your program? We recruit to fit our immediate needs. Therefore, if we are recruit you, we are looking to give someone a chance to step in player be they a high school senior or junior college transfer. Also, if you are looking to get a hands-on education in a small college atmosphere, Lyndon is the place for them.
10. If a recruit is interested in your program, how should they reach out to you? They can contact me anytime at (802) 626-6341 or via e-mail at william.johnson@lyndonstate.edu.



