Coaching Matters Live Recap: Demystifying the Recruiting Process for Coaches, Parents, and Athletes

Coaching Matters Live: Demystifying the Recruiting Process

Helping Coaches, Parents, and Athletes Navigate One of the Hardest Plays in Sports

Fundraising University’s Coaching Matters Live returned in September with a powerful lineup of leaders who have lived every side of the recruiting journey—from college diamonds to high school gyms.

With President of Sales Michael Effinger stepping in to host for Founder Mike Bahun, the conversation stayed true to Fundraising U’s mission: helping coaches and programs win both on and off the field. Effinger’s 25 years of fundraising experience and deep connection to school communities grounded the discussion in real-world perspective.

A Star-Studded Panel of Experts

The event featured some of the most respected minds in sports, each bringing a unique lens to the conversation:

  • Michael Effinger – President of Sales, Fundraising University; 25 years of fundraising and leadership experience
  • Mike Bahun – Founder, Fundraising University & Coaching Matters; Mental Performance Coach, Univ. of Houston; Former Assistant Baseball Coach, Ohio University
  • Kelly Stinnett – Former MLB Catcher; Head Coach, Park University–Gilbert (NAIA)
  • Connor Gandossy – Recruiting Coordinator & Hitting Coach, University of Minnesota
  • Mik Aoki – Head Coach, University of Richmond; Veteran NCAA D1 Coach (Notre Dame, Boston College)
  • Kara Hill – Founder & CEO, VBallRecruiter
  • Alex Cherney – Head Baseball Coach, Scottsdale Community College
  • Brian Broderick – Former MLB Pitcher; Head Baseball Coach, Perry High School
  • Corey McCallum – Cortez High School Basketball Coach; Executive Director, Fellowship Phoenix

Together, these leaders tackled the realities of recruiting — from NIL to mindset — with an authentic, “coach-to-coach” tone that resonated across every level of the game.

Key Takeaways

1. Character Outlasts Talent

Every coach agreed: talent may open the door, but character keeps it open.
Mik Aoki shared that programs are looking for “leaders who compete the right way,” while Connor Gandossy reminded listeners that “resilience and response to adversity” often define the recruiting difference-makers.

2. NAIA and JUCO Programs Deserve Respect

Kelly Stinnett and Alex Cherney emphasized that great opportunities exist beyond Division I.
Stinnett said, “At Park, we’re looking for kids who love the grind,” while Cherney added that JUCO athletes often develop grit and maturity that serve them throughout their careers.

3. Families Need Real, Honest Conversations

From Kara Hill’s volleyball insights to Corey McCallum’s high school experience, the panel stressed the importance of transparency.
Hill encouraged parents to ask, “What environment truly supports my child?” while McCallum shared that coaches can model calm and perspective when guiding families through uncertainty.

4. Mindset and Mental Health Are Game-Changers

Mike Bahun’s philosophy echoed throughout the conversation: mental performance separates good teams from great ones. Coaches who focus on confidence, focus, and leadership development create athletes who perform consistently — and thrive off the field, too.

5. Coaching Is About Legacy, Not Just Wins

Corey McCallum summed it up perfectly:

“We build young men first. The wins take care of themselves.”

Each speaker emphasized that true coaching success is measured not in scholarships or stats — but in the kind of people athletes become.

Why Coaching Matters Live Exists

At Fundraising University, we believe coaches deserve the same mentorship they give to others. Coaching Matters Live was created to provide that space — a home for honest, impactful conversations that equip coaches to lead with integrity and purpose.

Every episode reinforces our mission to fuel dreams and fund success, helping coaches raise more in less time, with the least interference — so they can focus on developing athletes and building leaders.

Keep the Momentum Going

The learning doesn’t stop here.

Join us for the next Coaching Matters Live on Monday, October 27 at 6:00 PM CST, where Mike Bahun will lead a session on:
🧠 Mental Performance – Providing Processes and Systems to Develop Mental Skills

This conversation will explore how coaches can build structure, consistency, and mindset systems that elevate athlete performance in every arena.
Same place. Same time. Same mission — to grow together.

And don’t miss the Baseball Coaching Clinics 2025 — a hands-on extension of our mission to support coaches with real tools and connections that make a difference.

✨ Fundraising University is proud to stand beside coaches, helping you raise more, in less time, with the least interference — so you can focus on what truly matters: developing your players and building your legacy.