In this episode of the Base Path Podcast, hosted by Dan Guttenplan and produced by New England Baseball Journal, Avon Old Farms head baseball coach Rob Dowling discusses the key factors behind the substantial success of his team in New England prep baseball. With a history of winning 17 Colonial and Founders League championships since 1996, Coach Dowling shares insights into the team's strong pitching lineup, talent acquisition, and the impact of preseason training in Florida. In addition, the conversation covers the increased competitiveness in prep baseball, the holistic experience offered by Avon Old Farms, player commitments to top colleges like Vanderbilt, and the educational value of athletics. The podcast also delves into baseball rules, coaching philosophies, the use of technology in the sport, and the discussion ends with a playful 'three up, three down' Q&A segment. 00:15 Spotlight on Avon Old Farms' Baseball Success00:50 The Key to Early Season Success02:33 The Impact of the Pandemic on Prep Baseball02:42 Building a Competitive Team: Recruitment and Training05:12 A Closer Look at Avon's Star Players19:41 Navigating the Transfer Portal and College Recruitment22:26 Personal Insights: Coaching Philosophy and Family Life25:06 'Three Up, Three Down': Baseball Memories and Superstitions