College Recruiting Advice from Adam Stevens | Aurora University 

Listen: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Adam Stevens, the Head Baseball Coach at Aurora University, one of the top Division 3 baseball programs in the Midwest. With a master’s degree in sports psychology, Coach Stevens has a unique approach to recruiting, developing players, and helping them handle both success and failure.

We dive deep into:
✅ What college coaches really look for in recruits
✅ Why the mental game is just as important as physical skills
✅ The biggest mistakes players make in the recruiting process
✅ How D3 baseball compares to other levels—and why it might be the best fit for many players
✅ The transfer portal and how D3 programs are utilizing it

Coach Stevens has been leading Aurora’s program for over a decade, helping his team achieve one of the highest winning percentages in Division 3 baseball from 2018 to 2023. His insights into recruiting, player development, and the mental game are invaluable for any aspiring college athlete.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

1. Talent isn’t enough—coaches look for fit.

   • It’s not just about being good; it’s about finding the right program that matches your goals and personality.
   • Aurora recruits multi-sport athletes, leaders, and players who embrace competition.

2. The transfer portal is changing the game.

   • Many D3 programs, including Aurora, now utilize the portal to bring in players from D1, D2, and junior college levels.
   • If you’re transferring, make sure your academic credits will transfer, too.

3. The mental side of baseball separates players.

   • Baseball is a game of failure, and learning how to handle adversity is key.
   • Success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about consistency, work ethic, and mindset.

Why D3 Baseball Might Be Your Best Option

Many players have a D1 or bust mentality, but the reality is that top D3 programs offer elite competition. Players at this level face mid-to-upper 80s arms, and some even get drafted or signed by MLB teams (Aurora has an alum currently on the St. Louis Cardinals 40-man roster!)

If you’re serious about playing college baseball, be open to all levels and focus on finding the right fit rather than chasing logos.

If you're a player, parent, or coach who wants to understand the recruiting game at a deeper level, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

📞 Contact Coach Adam Stevens:
Email: astevens@aurora.edu
Aurora Baseball Website: Aurora Spartans Baseball

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 - 00:03:30 | Introduction & Background
• 00:03:30 - 00:07:30 | Aurora University Baseball Program
• 00:07:30 - 00:12:00 | Recruiting Process & Player Fit
• 00:12:00 - 00:16:30 | Common Recruiting Mistakes Players Make
• 00:16:30 - 00:20:30 | Transfer Portal & Development Pathways
• 00:20:30 - 00:24:30 | D3 Competition Level & Player Expectations
• 00:24:30 - 00:28:00 | Mental Game & Handling Failure
• 00:28:00 - 00:31:30 | Success & Handling High Expectations
• 00:31:30 - 00:33:30 | Making Practices Mentally Challenging
• 00:33:30 - 00:35:00 | Final Thoughts & Aurora’s Campus Environment

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