Coach Josh Blakley: Recruiting Insights, Team Building & Mental Game in College Baseball
S2 E13 • Mar 30, 2025 • 24 minsJoin Josh Blakley on ZenGame with Tommy Morris as they delve into Josh's coaching journey and the intricacies of college baseball levels. The episode offers valuable advice for high school recruits, discussing key recruitment factors and the impact of the transfer portal and NIL on recruiting. Josh shares success stories, insights into character evaluation, and the traits that make athletes recruitable. The conversation highlights the value of multi-sport athletes and sport crossovers for baseball. They explore team-building strategies, season outlooks, and mental challenges in college baseball, concluding with a regional talent comparison.
Terrance Arceneaux: Growth, Team Dynamics, and Sweet 16 Memories
S2 E12 • Mar 27, 2025 • 14 minsJoin Terrance Arceneaux on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he reflects on his bench experience and the key takeaways from the past year. Terrance shares insights into a day in the life before reaching the Sweet 16, including impactful messages from veteran players. The conversation delves into team dynamics, preseason challenges, and pivotal turning points, particularly highlighting the Kansas game. Terrance discusses the atmosphere and motivation during road games, while also exploring his personal growth and support system. The episode captures key contributions and fun moments throughout the season, concluding with closing remarks and expressions of gratitude.
Drew Mestemaker & Miles Coleman: Friendship, Football, and Team Impact at UNT
S2 E11 • Mar 26, 2025 • 20 minsJoin Drew Mestemaker and Miles Coleman on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they explore their journey from early friendship to navigating the challenges of high school sports. They discuss their transition to college athletics, detailing their experiences acclimating to college football and the decision to choose UNT, including training with Jeff Christianson. The episode offers insights into preparing for and reflecting on significant games, like the Texas Tech matchup and bowl game experiences. Drew and Miles highlight the impact of their connection on team dynamics, sharing valuable advice for aspiring athletes. The conversation wraps up with closing remarks and a look toward the future.
Sara Vanderford & Jessica Mullins: From Players to Champions and Coaching at Texas State
S2 E10 • Mar 22, 2025 • 22 minsJoin Sara Vanderford and Jessica Mullins on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they discuss their transition from players to coaches, offering insights into their new perspectives in the sport. They share their journey to Texas State, providing valuable advice to aspiring athletes and reflecting on their experiences playing professionally. The episode highlights the triumph of winning the conference championship, underscoring the support received from Coach Woodard and their teammates. Throughout the conversation, Sara and Jessica offer a thoughtful look at their evolving roles in college sports and the impact of strong team dynamics.
Rashawn Galloway: From High School to Draft Year, Transformations and Building a Legacy
S2 E9 • Mar 16, 2025 • 18 minsJoin Rashawn Galloway on ZenGame with Tommy Morris as he shares his journey through high school sports, detailing his transition from football to baseball and his notable achievements. Rashawn discusses his physical transformation and its impact on his performance, as well as his evolution as a catcher, focusing on the importance of managing relationships with pitchers. He opens up about his aspirations and interactions with scouts during his draft year, providing insight into his experiences with college triples and summer ball. Rashawn concludes by reflecting on the legacy he hopes to leave beyond sports, offering a thoughtful perspective on his journey.
Keely Williams & Madison Azua: Trust, Team Bonds, and Reflections on Texas State Softball
S2 E8 • Mar 14, 2025 • 17 minsJoin Keely Williams and Madison Azua from Texas State softball on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they share their experiences and insights into college sports. The episode begins with their first impressions and high school memories, highlighting the importance of building trust within the team. Keely reflects on her freshman year and the transition to Texas State, while both athletes share their favorite moments and emphasize the significance of team bonds over individual statistics. The conversation concludes with discussions on their season goals and long-term reflections, offering a thoughtful look at their journey in college athletics.
Gio Lopez: Transitions, Team Dynamics, and Embracing Challenges in College Sports
S2 E7 • Feb 27, 2025 • 16 minsJoin Gio Lopez on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they revisit past interviews and mentorship experiences, reflecting on transitions and comparisons in playing style. The conversation explores the influence of other sports and the considerations surrounding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Delve into the impact of the transfer portal and personal influences on athletes. Gain insights into team dynamics, training, and recovery routines, while enjoying light-hearted and memorable moments shared by Gio. Discover teammates' potential and anecdotes of the hardest hits. The episode wraps up with discussions on overcoming challenges, setting future goals, and looking ahead to what's next.
Gabby Stagner & Ryley Harrison: Balancing Academics, Athletics, and a Winning Mindset
S2 E6 • Feb 25, 2025 • 15 minsJoin Gabby Stagner and Ryley Harrison on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they discuss their experiences in top-level college sports. The episode delves into their decision to choose South Alabama and their initial impressions of the program. Gain insights into their performance, confidence-building, and coaching experiences. They share the challenges of balancing sports, academics, and personal growth, providing a candid look at their journey. The conversation shifts to their anticipation for the upcoming season, highlighting fun memories and what lies ahead.
Kamryn Bass & Ciara Trahan: Building Chemistry and Overcoming Challenges in D1 Softball
S2 E1 • Feb 6, 2025 • 48 minsJoin Kamryn Bass and Ciara Trahan on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they dive into the anticipation of a new season, sharing insights into mid-major programs and the impact of facilities on recruiting journeys. They discuss team adaptation, freshman challenges, and overcoming adversity throughout the fall season. Explore the program's legacy, home field advantage, and the role of team chemistry in creating memorable moments. The episode delves into pitching strategy, emotional highs, and fun experiences, highlighting key achievements and aspirations for the season. Kamryn and Ciara reflect on their journey and share closing thoughts, offering a unique perspective on balancing academics and athletics.
Sawyer Robertson: Faith, Football, and Baylor's Bright Future
S1 E20 • Dec 23, 2024 • 61 minsJoin Sawyer Robertson on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he discusses finding his identity through faith and building excitement among Baylor fans. Sawyer reflects on his past season, future plans, and integrating special guests into his journey. He shares his experiences with notable quarterbacks and his recruiting journey with Mike Leach, including the choice not to play for Texas Tech. Sawyer delves into balancing faith with football, the impact of personal style on success, and preparing for a bowl game. The episode explores his influences from Texas high school football, the transition from baseball, and realizing football was his career path. Discover his decision to transfer to Baylor, the importance of faith, and aspirations for the future.
Zeon Chriss: From High School Glory to College Quarterbacking with Resilience and Faith
S1 E18 • Dec 2, 2024 • 63 minsJoin Zeon Chriss on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he shares his path to peace and his journey through college sports. Zeon discusses building momentum with the Houston Cougars under Coach Fritz's guidance and the influences of Lamar Jackson, Greg Ward, and Tom Brady. He reflects on his father's coaching impact, early football beginnings, and evolution as a quarterback. Zeon opens up about overcoming doubt, facing depression, and finding faith, highlighting resilience and learning from professional athletes. Delve into team culture, college recruitment, and adjusting to the college football landscape. The episode explores maintaining confidence, mentorship, and the dynamics of team support, concluding with Zeon's goals and aspirations for the future.
Will Howard on Transitioning to Ohio State, Overcoming Self-Doubt, and Preparing for the NFL
S1 E17 • Nov 24, 2024 • 50 minsJoin Will Howard on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he shares his path from baseball to football, navigating recruitment challenges, and his early days at Kansas State. Will discusses his transition to Ohio State, adapting to the Buckeye way, and overcoming struggles as a backup quarterback. He reflects on personal growth, the role of faith, and staying present amidst competition. Discover how Will handles pressure, emphasizing strength, conditioning, and Ohio State's approach to fitness, nutrition, and recovery. The episode also touches on preparing for the NFL, Ohio State's quarterback legacy, the emotional impacts of rivalry games, and celebrating victories.
Dillon Gabriel on Marcus Mariota's Influence, Breaking Records, and Building Resilience
S1 E16 • Nov 17, 2024 • 37 minsJoin Dillon Gabriel on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he delves into his football journey from early beginnings to his impactful career. Dillon shares experiences from playing various positions, defensive influences, and how Marcus Mariota inspired him. He reflects on community involvement, high school memories, and breaking records leading to his recruitment by UCF. Dillon discusses his relationship with Mackenzie Milton, standout moments at UCF, and adaptation during the pandemic. The episode explores his personal life, engagement, and managing fame, along with financial management and NIL opportunities. Dillon offers advice for aspiring athletes, emphasizes building a strong support network, and discusses his legacy and aspirations beyond football.
Kurtis Rourke: From Canadian Beginnings to Big Ten Dreams with Indiana
S1 E14 • Nov 4, 2024 • 28 minsJoin Kurtis Rourke on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he discusses his journey from Canadian football to Indiana, reflecting on his transfer and the impact of injuries and COVID on his career. Kurtis shares insights on family influence, loyalty, and overcoming adversity during the 2019 season. He highlights the differences between Canadian and American football and provides a glimpse into Indiana's roster and spring practices. Delve into defensive challenges, the influence of Coach Cignetti, and Kurtis's connection to faith. Discover how Kurtis finds identity beyond sport, prepares for the Big Ten, and manages pressure. The episode concludes with Kurtis's future outlook.
Luke Altmyer: From Dak Prescott's Shadow to Leading Illinois with Faith and Resilience
S1 E13 • Oct 27, 2024 • 28 minsJoin Luke Altmyer on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he recounts his football journey, from early influences with Dak Prescott to impactful decisions shaped by AJ Brown. Luke discusses the challenges and advantages of choosing Ole Miss, including insights gained from Matt Corral and the support of his surgeon father. He shares his transition to Illinois, navigating the transfer portal, and first interactions with Coach Bilima. Discover how Luke adjusted to Midwest life, found success at Illinois, and embraced humility and learning from failures. The episode highlights the role of faith, experiencing a greater presence on the field, and the special bond within the Illinois team.
Tyler Shough on Faith, Resilience, and Learning from Justin Herbert
S1 E12 • Oct 20, 2024 • 37 minsJoin Tyler Shough on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he opens up about his journey through the highs and lows of college football. Tyler discusses his early sports experiences and the pivotal decision to pursue football, leading to his recruitment by Oregon. He shares insights on learning from Justin Herbert and navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 season. The episode delves into Tyler's transfer experience, dealing with injuries, and the crucial role of support systems and faith in overcoming adversity. Tyler reflects on his aggressive play style, personal milestones, and the influence of coach Brohm at Louisville. He also touches on college football as a professional trial, moments of gratitude, and his aspirations for the season.
Diego Pavia and Eli Stowers on Victory, Adversity, and Faith in Football
S1 E11 • Oct 13, 2024 • 71 minsJoin Diego Pavia and Eli Stowers on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they reflect on Vanderbilt's historic win against Alabama and its aftermath. They discuss their preparation for the Kentucky Wildcats, maintaining confidence, and learning from defensive adjustments. The episode explores their transition from underdogs to targets, interactions with Johnny Manziel, and inspiring future players. Diego and Eli share personal challenges, the significance of setbacks, and finding purpose through faith and football. Eli opens up about his struggles with injury while Diego's influence shines through. The episode wraps up with light-hearted questions, audience engagement, and a look ahead to future aspirations and season excitement.
Diego Pavia on SEC Success, Coach Influence, and Building a Winning Culture at Vanderbilt
S1 E10 • Oct 6, 2024 • 74 minsJoin Eli Stowers and Diego Pavia on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as they delve into their journeys as college quarterbacks. Eli shares insights on the Music City Maverick nickname and preparation for the Alcorn State game, while Diego reflects on his growth from New Mexico State and the influence of Coach Beck on his QB play. The episode explores their experiences with media attention, crowd enthusiasm, and the culture shift under new coaching. They discuss overcoming underdog status, building a winning culture, and balancing academics with football. Diego talks about his transition from junior college to SEC success, social media impact, and interactions with Deion Sanders.
Gio Lopez and Major Applewhite on Faith, Mentorship, and South Alabama's Potential
S1 E9 • Sep 29, 2024 • 57 minsJoin Grant Gurtin on ZenGame as he chats with college quarterback Gio Lopez and coach Major Applewhite. The episode starts with a cultural dive into Mobile, Alabama, exploring its unique cuisine. Gio shares insights on balancing football and faith, reflecting on his bowl game performance. Major Applewhite discusses quarterback recruitment and the importance of team dynamics. They delve into South Alabama's football potential, learning from film sessions, and front office strategies. Hear about Major's coaching philosophy, Gio's offensive fit, and the impact of coaching changes. The episode wraps up with community pride, cultural comparisons, and players to watch for Mobile fans.
Donovan Smith on Houston Transfer, NFL Dreams, and Mental Resilience in College Football
S1 E8 • Sep 23, 2024 • 64 minsJoin Donovan Smith as he talks with Grant Gurtin and Jayden York on ZenGame about his journey as a college quarterback. Donovan shares his excitement for the upcoming game against UNLV, his early days at Texas Tech, and the decision to transfer to Houston. He discusses the recruiting process, balancing quarterback responsibilities, and maintaining mental resilience. The episode touches on NFL aspirations, special teams' influence, and interactions with Patrick Mahomes. Donovan reflects on transitioning from high school to college football, overcoming challenges, and the wisdom gained from Case Keenum. He highlights the importance of consistency, discipline, and faith.