Under The Gun: Will James

Date: January, 24, 2019
By: Eric Leary

So let’s get started and get to the answers on the questions everyone wants to know. How would you describe your coaching philosophy?

I preach max effort; give 110 percent every time you’re on the field because you truly never know who is watching.  I’m a big believer in making baseball a simple game, players should always have an approach whether they are pitching, hitting or making defensive plays.  Always be ready because the most important pitch is the next pitch.

Take us back to your playing days at Guilford College. Describe yourself as a pitcher?  And how has that mentality extended to your coaching?

Pitching in college, will make you learn real quickly that it aint for the weak minded. You have to be a Bulldog and attack hitters; the next pitch is always your best pitch.  This mentality I have applied to my players, they have to believe in themselves. Confidence and Preparation are the most important aspects to being the best player you can be.

What are some factors that led you to decide to get involved with the Dirtbags?

After my playing career ended I wanted to get into coaching and thought what better way to start, then with the best organization around.  Coaching with the Dirtbags has truly been an honor.

You have coached many players with the Dirtbags that have gone on to play college baseball.  Tell us about that experience to see guys you’ve had a hand in coaching actually reach those goals of competing at the next level.

There’s no better feeling coaching them the moment one of your current or former players commits to play college baseball.  The main reason I coach is to help kids get to the next level, no matter whether its Division 1-3, NAIA or Juco. Helping kids accomplish their dreams is special to me, and will help do whatever it takes to get the player to what school he or she fits at.

We are sure many games could go in the “memorable” category for you while wearing the Dirtbags colors.  If you could pick just one, which would it be and why?

Playing at Lynchburg College in a semifinal game tied 0-0 after 5 and it started raining, making the field unplayable.  We then finished the game across town at Liberty University and won 2-0 in extra innings over Dirtbags All Black on way to winning the championship. Got to beat the best to be the best.

And much the same probably goes with players – so many in your tenure have either performed at high levels or gone on to great accomplishments.  But if you had to pick just one, who is the BEST you’ve coached?

Cory Wood (Coastal Carolina Infielder) because he is a true competitor, dude gets after it.  Man flies all over the field and can play multiple positions, fun player to coach.  Coastal got them a dude.

And finally, what comes to mind when you hear the word, “Dirtbag”?

Best Showcase Organization around, Crazy but awesome uniforms, and the Recognition that comes along with being a Dirtbag.

Well that’s all we have for today with Coach James.  Thanks for your time and best of luck in 2019!