Dave Keilitz, 20 year Executive Director*, American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) previews the upcoming 70th Annual convention scheduled Jan 2-5 in Dallas. Dave, who has been to every convention the past 44 years, has seen it grow from his first one in ’69 with 250-300 coaches in attendance to last year w/ nearly 5,500 coaches soaking up the learning and contact. 29-30 clinics are slated which will address a wide range of technical skills, the mental game and strength and conditioning. Dave also discusses the value of informally networking with other coaches and teachers in the game as well as how the wide mix of vendor displays have grown from 3 in ’69 to over 300 occupying 150,000 square feet.
*Dave Keilitz: 1964 1st team All-American, 14 year head coach Central Michigan U. (69% winning %), 51 players advanced to pro ball, recipient of numerous baseball awards. Dave will retire from the Ex. Dir. position in June. However, he will continue to serve on ABCA’ board.