Our Story
When we are young, we think we know everything. There is nothing that can stop us, and of course, we know all the answers to every problem we face (kidding). During my senior year of high school, I tore my ACL and my dreams of playing baseball at a large school all but dissipated. As I began to call colleges that were recruiting me, I heard words like, “I’m sorry best of luck” or “With an injury like that, I don’t think your chances here are likely.” I was fortunate enough to hear from all different levels of schools during my recruiting process. As a result, I decided to attend a Division III school in St. Paul, Minnesota. At Hamline University, I graduated in four years with a degree in Finance, received multiple job offers and internships, and now run a financial firm. During my playing career, I was elected a three-year captain, three-year All-Conference selection, two-year ABCA All-Region player. I got a chance to play Professional Baseball with the St. Paul Saints.
My choice to play at a small school where I could contribute for four years was very influential. I could have taken a high-risk chance to play at a D1, but who knows if I ever would have gotten to play baseball and at the end of the day, I am glad I got 4 more years at my dream.
I tell this story because when choosing a college or university, many people make mistakes or take the easy way out. Playing college baseball is a JOB!!! You must understand that you are making a commitment, and you have to be passionate about playing. With my help and my experiences, I strive to help you make the right choice. I understand that passions and priorities change in life, and my goal is to help you get to a place where you feel like you can thrive as much as I did!
I am grateful for tearing my ACL... I know it sounds weird; however, my injury taught me that I have to hold myself accountable for every action that I take. I worked harder than anyone I knew, and I wanted to prove everyone wrong that I could make something of myself one day. Today I use that motivation to serve others and teach them so that if/when they go through something difficult, they can be in an even better situation than I was in. My only goal is to impact your life and provide every resource I can for you. That is why I started this program.
-Nolan Schoonveld Director of College Advising at NextGen Leadership
“Nolan is a great role model for kids who want to play college baseball. I learned good qualities from him that will help in college and life in general. Things that college coaches look for that have nothing to do with baseball skills.”