American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA)

In 1945, a group of college baseball coaches gathered in New York City to formulate ideas for the promotion and improvement of the collegiate game. Coach Eppy Barnes, Colgate University, and Coach Joe Bedenk, Pennsylvania State University, originated the idea that college baseball needed organization and direction. Prior to 1945, a survey revealed that only one-third of the more than 600 colleges were playing baseball. More than 140 coaches responded to the survey approving the formation of a college baseball coaching organization. The first meeting was held at the New York Athletic Club on June 29, 1945. 27 coaches were in attendance. Presentations were made urging college coaches to organize so they could better promote the game, help gather national statistics and cooperate with professional baseball. Former college coach and President of the Brooklyn Dodgers, Branch Rickey, was one of the speakers.It was determined that a constitution would be written. The name of the new organization was to be named the American Association of College Baseball Coaches. The founding fathers decided they would hold meetings (conventions) each year and they would be held with the NCAA meeting. The second convention was held in St. Louis in January, 1946 with approximately 60 members in attendance. Items of discussion included: All-American teams, a playoff system, promoting the game, creation of conferences and leagues, and problems with early signings by professional baseball. Since those early years, the Association has grown to over 15,000 members with members from all 50 states and 42 different countries. By 1980, the membership had broadened significantly to include coaches other than just college members. At the 1981 convention in Miami, the membership of the AACBC voted to change the name of the Association to the present name of the American Baseball Coaches Association. To find out more about the ABCA and the benefits associated with being a member visit www.ABCA.org!