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D-I is great but don't forget the others (II, III, JC, NAIA) Feedback Welcome!

Perhaps it is due to the nation's preoccupation with "Big is the Best" or maybe it is because the sports media only covers big name schools, but there are too many players out there who think Division I or bust when it comes to their athletic career.

Observing athletes who would have a tough time at a Division II or III program who tell me they want to go to "Any big name school ( D-1 of course)" is a concern. Any athlete with the skills, dedication and desire to play at a good D-1 school should peruse that end. However, there are many other programs which offer a great college atmosphere, super coaching, excellent facilities, a competitive team, and the opportunity to play early and often ( the key to player development.)

Generally speaking, there are ranges of program quality such that the top D-III teams can beat some weaker D-I and D-II programs and the better D-II programs can challenge many of the D-I programs out there. Still there are many reasons to broaden your baseball school search if the big D-I programs are ignoring you.

1. Scholarships- athletic scholarship money is available at many D-II, NAIA, and Junior College schools and athletes at some D-III schools often see very attractive financial aid packages. Full athletic scholarships are extremely rare at Division I or and level, so do not think you can get the "full ride" just because it is a Division I program.

2. Playing Time - the key to developing as a player is to play in games. In terms of player development it is better to play for four years against decent competition than it is to sit for 2-3 years and play 1 or 2 years.

3. The Pro Draft - since there are more better players at the D-I level versus NAIA, D-II and D-III there are a greater number drafted. But players are taken from all levels. Scouts care about one thing: Talent. If you are good they will find you. Top Division III players can prove themselves against higher division talent in summer wood bat leagues and all-star games.

If you enjoy the game of baseball it makes sense to choose a college where you will have the most fun, get the best education and have a chance to play regularly. Good luck.

For a complete list of college baseball programs click here.