Truth Hurts???

Where does a player go to get an honest, unbiased opinion of their ability?

 

Jupiter at the end of October. That is true test.

 

Nice thought up, but that's not available to everyone.

Any other thoughts ...

 

In order to get to Jupiter, you have to play on a team that has qualified to go to Jupiter.

Many players don't have that option. There will be a limited number of teams down in Jupiter this October. There will be about 600 of the best H.S. players in the nation down there. It's nice to be able to measure yourself against that competition, but sometimes it's necessary to get an outside opinion ... someone who isn't biased.

This normally leaves out Mom/Dad. If you're lucky, your H.S. coach may be able to help, but maybe not. A lot of Player Services exist out there "helping" players get recruited. Most are completely above board and live on their credibility with colleges... some are not and live on bilking money from un-suspecting parents. Most all will perform an evaluation.

Another way to get an unbiased evaluation is to attend a pro tryout camp. They can't see your game, but the can evaluate your tools.

No one wants to pop someone's bubble so it may be difficult to find people who are honest. And being honest is the best thing you can do for a player who is trying to work on their game.

 

I agree with NC that the pro tryout camps are an excellent place to get an honest evaluation. These can be a little eye opening. For example, my son attended one after his freshman high school season, on the recommendation of an assistant coach. He had a very good arm at that time, for a high school player. But on the pro scale of 2 to 8, with 5 being pro average, he graded a 3. Out of all the players there (about 40), the highest was 4.5. I was happy, but he was disappointed. I had to ask him in the car, did you really think, as a high school freshman, that your arm was pro calibre? After he thought about it, he became more determined to work harder to improve. Typically, there is no fee for these camps. The only expenses are your travel and meals to and from.

Another way, if you are a high school player, is to attend a college camp. Although this will likely cost more than the pro evaluation, the college coaches I have met will give you their honest opinion of your (or your son's) skills. Make sure the coach understands you're not necessarily asking him to recruit your son. Otherwise the coach may answer depending upon his need for players at the position you play.