Lance Marshall is the head baseball coach at Franklin College.
He is also the school’s assistant athletics director.
Marshall is in his 18th season as head coach and, with more than 400 career wins, is the winningest baseball coach in Franklin history.
Q: Without the benefit of awarding athletic scholarships, what are the biggest challenges in attracting athletes?
A: Our objective is to find a terrific student who is also an outstanding athlete. We want to be certain each student-athlete has the optimum opportunity for success, both in the classroom and on the field.
The key is to find student-athletes that fit both criteria.
Q: What specifically do you tell athletes to sell them on Franklin?
A: We do our best to encourage prospects to visit the Franklin campus.
We are fortunate to have a beautiful campus and a terrific college environment. In terms of athletics, most student-athletes are looking for academic success and the ability to compete and play for championships.
Q: When do you typically start recruiting?
A: Recruiting is an ongoing process for us. We are always looking for quality student-athletes.
Our typical cycle for baseball is evaluation during the spring and summer for the rising senior class. We will visit the majority of prospective student-athletes throughout the school year.
Q: Do you enjoy the recruiting process? If so, what do you enjoy about it?
A: I enjoy it immensely. The relationship building with the prospects and families is very enjoyable.
The quest to find the best student-athletes each year to benefit the program is a huge key to success.
