Jeff says in the interview he has retired except for 40+. Hopefully someone talks him out of it, at least towards the end of the year!
Jeff McGavin
Major Player
Interview conducted on 2/1/2017
Who are you playing with in 2017?
My kids at the house — I'm hanging up the 3n2's. Thanks to everyone for all the great years. I'll miss it all — and I might run into you at a 40+ in Vegas.
What positions do you play and what is your best position?
Shortstop
Who is the best softball player you have ever seen play?
Too many to name – Helmer, Rusty, Connell, Baker, Wegs, Andy, Jr, McCraw
Why do you like the game of softball?
I loved the competition of conference softball. You better bring it every weekend or get sent home quickly.
Who is the best up and coming player in softball and why?
Flip Washington is one of the best…. Works very hard at his game and will continue to get better with those efforts.
What is your nickname in softball and how did you get it?
Shooter — shot the 3 ball in high school hoops
What is your height and weight?
5'10, 200
Where do you call home?
Shelby Township, Michigan
What's your favorite way to spend an off weekend?
With my wife – Jodie and two boys – Brayden and AJ
What do you do for a living?
Teach high school and coach basktball
Did you play sports in High School / College / Pro?
High school basketball and baseball
Baseball at Eastern Michigan University
How did you get your start in softball and how did you get to the upper level?
Started playing league ball at Liberty Park of America in Sterling Hgts. Then, caught on with a B team out of Michigan and that led to getting picked up by Tarz Nation and Larry Q. The last 15 years have been at the upper level and its been a lot of fun.
What was the most surprising difference between Conference play and non-Conference play when you made the jump?
Playing league ball does not compare to the speed of conference softball. It takes a minute to adjust.
Is there a player that you would compare your game to?
any shortstop that doesn't hit a lot of homeruns
What would you say is your career highlight to this point? Maybe one play or game that sticks out to you in particular?
Northwest Pipe A champs, Dan Smith/Combat Major champs, Border Battle champs with Team USA
In your career was there a single person (player/manager/coach) who had the most significant impact on your approach to the game? Why?
There's been many that have impacted the way I played, but overall – Don Cooper – He impacted my softball career the most. His support of me and efforts towards the game are appreciated greatly. Thanks Coop!
What advice can you give a young player trying to break into the upper level?
Play league ball where conference guys are playing. Put in your work, play the right way and do your best to impress… if you're good enough, someone will notice you.
What type of batting grip do you use and what ounce bat?
baseball grip – 26oz bat
What do you do in the offseason to prepare for the next softball season?
shovel snow
What is your favorite sports team and your favorite sport other than softball?
Detroit Tigers – golf
Do you have any superstitions and if so, what are they?
too many to name
What would be your "at bat" music selection?
At the major – I'd pick Eminem '8 Mile' or Wagon Wheel
What is the best improvement upper level softball could make?
Limit the travel
What is your favorite non-World tournament and why?
Seattle Dual – always fun to play a dual on 300ft fields.
What is the best softball field/complex you have played at and why?
Columbus, Ohio – Berliner Park
Where is the best place to eat on the road after a game?
WAWA
What is the funniest thing you have ever seen on a softball field?
Jerry Angel ear muff a coach in California
Tell us something about you that most would never know about you?
I teach English
What was your favorite sports related gift you have ever given or received?
I sent Helmer a Detroit Tigers souvenir baseball when they beat the Yankees in the playoffs.
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