My main objective is to prepare candidates for professional baseball; however, the majority of our graduates will go home as much better qualified amateurs.

The quote by Jim Evans highlights his dual purpose in coaching and training individuals for professional baseball. While his primary goal is to prepare candidates for a career in professional baseball, he acknowledges that most of his graduates will likely not make it to the professional level. Instead, they will return home as better qualified amateurs, meaning they will have gained valuable skills and experiences, even if they do not pursue baseball as a career.

Evans' statement speaks to the realities of the sports world, where only a small fraction of athletes make it to the professional level. By emphasizing the broader benefits of his training, he suggests that his program is about more than just baseball skills. It’s about instilling qualities like discipline, teamwork, and a strong work ethic that will serve the graduates well in their personal and professional lives, regardless of whether they make it to the pros.

The origin of this quote comes from Evans’ work as a baseball coach and his understanding of the competition in professional sports. He likely saw many young athletes who, despite their talents, would not make it to the major leagues but could still benefit from the life lessons and skills learned through the game. His focus on amateur athletes suggests a mindset that values personal development over just professional achievement.

Ultimately, Evans’ words reflect the idea that sports and coaching have broader educational value, beyond just producing professional athletes. By preparing students for professional baseball, he is also helping them become better qualified amateurs, capable of succeeding in various aspects of life. This broader approach to training highlights the importance of character development, regardless of the final outcome in the sports world.