ENC Sports Review, in partnership with the Athletics Division of the City of Rocky Mount, would like to highlight some of the athletic program coaches since their season has been delayed. Today, we will highlight Chambliss & Rabil Braves Head Coach Ivey Powell. We thank Ivey for taking the time to sit down with ENC Sports Review and answer these questions for us. We had fun learning more about him and we hope you will too.
How long have you been coaching and/or involved with youth sports? Include your time affiliated with Rocky Mount Little League.
I have had the pleasure of being active in the Rocky Mount Little League program for 28 years. During that time, I have also coached middle school baseball at Edwards Junior High (presently Edwards Middle School), Parker Middle School, and Rocky Mount High School, both JV and Varsity, with some outstanding Assistants and Head Coaches.
What do you enjoy most about coaching in youth sports?
Baseball is a humbling game. Watching the youth of today compete and try new things in the face of adversity is something that builds the youth of today into the men of tomorrow. The way that they handle the adversity from the baseball field will help build them into men who are equipped to handle adversity as they grow.
What is one of your fondest memories coaching youth sports – in RM Little League or other sports?
I have had some great memories of coaching young men on the baseball field. My first year of being associated with Pepsi and Norman Chambliss, we went undefeated and won the City Championship. A few years later, coaching with Sam Toler and competing at the State Games in Roanoke Rapids and then going on to compete at the State’s in Greensboro. Coaching with Travis Ward and Danny Weaver in Babe Ruth 13’s, finishing undefeated and run-ruling many of the teams. Having the opportunity to take two teams to Cooperstown Dreams Park and competing on that stage definitely created some moments. The young people that I have had the opportunity to reach through coaching is more important to me. Watching them compete in Middle School and then High School and hopefully into College has definitely created some moments to reminisce. Sitting in the dugout with my son at Rocky Mount High School and listening to the guys talk about their own Little League memories is a constant reminder that this is some of the best times of their lives.
What message would you like to share with your team right now?
We are facing some challenges that are new and previously never seen. This situation takes on the game of baseball. The adversity is very similar to a game of baseball. The ebbs and flow of the game are being lived out with our daily challenges. Be ready to step up, make some memories and continue to take care of family. After all, when the game is over, it’s your family that will continue to lift you up and support you, loving you unconditionally.
If you could go back and change an outcome (or coaching decision) of a game in the past 5 years, what would it be and why?
If I could change anything, it would be to slow down the clock and relish in time with my son on the field from 3 to 18. He is leaving to play at Belmont Abbey in the fall and I don’t know how many more times I have to throw BP to him or play catch with him.
Give us a preview of your team for the upcoming season.
This season will be an exciting one for Chambliss & Rabil. We were excited that we had some practices. We are looking forward to getting back on the field soon! We have several returning players and a great group of young talent. They will all be asked to play hard and perform at their best. Pitchers will have to be a mix of 12’s, 11’s and 10 year old’s. The need to slap some leather on and get the job done will be imperative for each game. Looking for solid play in the outfield, as it will be anchored by a quick footed returning 11 year old who has shown how to compete at all levels of the game. The infield will be handled by a few returning players who anchored it last year. I am really looking forward to seeing what a years worth of experience looks like as we lace the shoes up and grab those hats. I can’t wait to see what new opportunities are placed in front of these young men!
What is the first thing you and your team will do once the pandemic is over?
Get back to work on the practice field! I have tried to keep in touch with my players and will be excited to see my boys again!
We thank Coach Ivey Powell for sitting down and talking with ENC Sports Review. It is our hope that you learned more about the person you see on the field. We can’t wait for this season to start. Games begin July 8th at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex. ENC Sports Review is your home for Little League Baseball. Be on the lookout for more coaches spotlights as well as game highlights and interviews.
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