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Welcome to “And That’s The Game” podcast, presented by ProBatter Sports! In this episode, host Wayne Mone dives into a heartfelt conversation with Jeff Rago, a seasoned baseball coach and school counselor. With 30 years of coaching experience and a deep-rooted passion for the game, Wayne sits down with Jeff to explore his journey, from growing up on the streets of Queens to coaching high school baseball and guiding students as a middle school counselor.

From Blacktop to Baseball Fields

Jeff Rago’s story begins in Queens, New York, where he spent his childhood playing on blacktops and in schoolyards. Growing up in the 1970s, he fondly remembers playing stickball, tackle football, and wiffle ball in the streets—sports that shaped his athletic abilities. Jeff’s love for baseball began early, playing with whatever equipment he could find, whether it was a baseball wrapped in electrical tape or a broomstick serving as a bat. This environment honed his hand-eye coordination and fostered a lifelong passion for the game.

“Kids today have so much structure in their sports, but back then, we just played. It taught us resilience, teamwork, and how to have fun,” Jeff reflects.

Coaching and Counseling: A Unique Blend

Jeff’s transition into coaching wasn’t a straight path. After playing college baseball at Queens College, he found himself bartending until his mother nudged him towards school counseling. A chance meeting led him to the profession he’s now been dedicated to for over 30 years. Jeff believes his role as a school counselor significantly influences his coaching style, bringing empathy and understanding to the field.

“As a counselor, you learn that change starts with those who want to change. That applies on and off the field,” he shares. Jeff’s work with students extends beyond academics—he focuses on their mental well-being and building life skills. This philosophy carries into his coaching, where he emphasizes respect, discipline, and a love for the game.

Building Winning Teams: From Struggles to Success

Jeff’s coaching career took off with stints at Greenwich High School and later, Trumbull High. However, it was his time at Joel Barlow High School that tested and proved his abilities as a coach. Faced with low participation and facilities, Jeff turned the program around by building relationships with local youth leagues, starting summer camps, and even fundraising for a new baseball field. He focused on creating a team culture where players hustled and played with passion.

“Our defense had to be perfect—we weren’t going to win 18-17 games. It was about 3-2 wins and making every out count,” Jeff explains.

The results were undeniable. In his final years at Barlow, the team’s numbers grew, and more players pursued college baseball. However, a heart condition in 2015 forced Jeff to step back from the sport he loved, though it was only temporary. After a full recovery, he jumped back into coaching, this time as the head baseball coach at Notre Dame of Fairfield.

A New Chapter: Coaching at Notre Dame Fairfield

At Notre Dame, Jeff found a fresh start. While the school didn’t have a dedicated feeder system, it provided a new challenge: building a program that could compete in the competitive Southern Connecticut Conference (SCC). The opportunity to coach at a private school also meant he could attract talent from across the region.

Jeff’s philosophy remained consistent—focusing on relationships, character development, and respect. He quickly built a culture where players thrived on the field and off, turning Notre Dame into a formidable team. Despite challenges like transitioning to new ownership under Sacred Heart University, Jeff sees it as a chance to expand opportunities for his players and integrate with the university’s state-of-the-art facilities.

Lessons for Aspiring Players and Coaches

Reflecting on his career, Jeff offers valuable advice to young athletes: “Play as much as you can, and not just in organized leagues. Get out there, whether it’s playing basketball at the park or wiffle ball in the backyard. It builds the instincts and skills that you can’t always get from drills.”

He also emphasizes the importance of being a good teammate. “Our most important team is our family. Being selfless and supportive on the field prepares you for being a better person in life.”

A Passion for Baseball and Life

Jeff Rago’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a love for baseball that has influenced generations of young athletes. Whether he’s guiding middle schoolers through tough times or helping a player perfect their swing, Jeff is all about making a positive impact.

For more about Jeff’s journey and to hear from other inspiring guests, tune into “And That’s The Game” podcast, presented by ProBatter Sports. And if you’re looking to elevate your baseball practice, check out ProBatter’s PX3 training simulators—a game-changing tool for realistic, high-level training.

About ProBatter Sports

ProBatter Sports has been transforming the way athletes train with the PX3—a state-of-the-art simulator that replicates real-world pitching scenarios. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills in baseball or softball, ProBatter’s technology offers a better way to practice and improve. Learn more at probatter.com.