New York State Baseball Hall of Fame Inducts Chatham’s Scott Steltz
A Leader, a Winner, and a Baseball Savant
Scott Steltz, the long-time Chatham baseball head coach, has been named to the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. This prestigious honor is a testament to his impressive coaching career and dedication to the sport.
A Reflection of the School, the Community, and the Players
In 26 years at the helm of the Chatham varsity program, Steltz has accumulated an impressive record of almost 400 wins, 11 patroon titles, five section titles, and one state championship. He is the only coach in Section II history to guide a team to three straight state championships.
“I think it’s just a reflection on our school, our kids, our families, our community, our Little League,” said Steltz. “I know there’s a lot of great Little Leagues out there. But ours has always been a big part of our high school program. Their kids are on our fence. Our kids are on their fence at games. As a parent going through that with your kids, you realize how special that is. So, I think this is a real honor for all of us. And I’m just blessed.”
A Coach Who Cares
But Steltz’s impact extends beyond the field. He is a coach who truly cares about his players, both on and off the field. His commitment to his players’ academic success is evident in the way he supports them, and his emphasis on discipline and hard work has helped shape many young athletes.
“He truly cares about the kids,” said Chatham senior Logan Smalley. “Like, if someone’s bad in school, he’s gonna discipline you; he’s gonna teach you how to be better. If you get bad grades…he’s gonna make sure you shape up. It’s just…he really cares about the people. It’s not just his baseball ability, his baseball knowledge; it’s just that he really cares.”
A Coach Who Knows His Stuff
Steltz’s baseball knowledge is unparalleled, and his ability to share that knowledge with his players has been a key factor in the team’s success. He is always looking for ways to improve, attending coaching camps and training sessions to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and strategies.
“It’s unbelievable how much he really knows about the game,” said Tate Van Alstyne, a Chatham 2024 graduate and current freshman at Southern New Hampshire University. “The times he would quiz us on stuff and just open us [up] to new stuff; you’re just kind of, like, mind-blown a little bit. But he goes to coaching camps. He goes to coaching training stuff. I mean, he puts in the work to become that. Seeing a coach put in that much work just makes you want to put in the same amount of work too.”
A Legacy That Will Continue
As Steltz looks to the future, he is already planning for the next season, developing practice plans and focusing on areas where the team needs improvement. With a 76-7 record over the last three seasons, it’s clear that his approach is working.
“A 4th straight title would put Steltz in rarefied air. But the legacy of this small-town coach has already been cemented…evident in the outpouring of support since the announcement of his Hall of Fame inclusion,” said Steltz. “I think I had over 150 texts that day…and then a lot more since then. Seeing that people still follow you after 20 years…those connections meant a lot to me and my wife. In this moment, the small town even means even more. So, it’s been really special.”
Conclusion
Scott Steltz’s induction into the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and commitment to his players. As a coach, a teacher, and a mentor, he has left an indelible mark on the game and the lives of those who have played for him.
Frequently Asked Questions
* What is the New York State Baseball Hall of Fame?
The New York State Baseball Hall of Fame is an organization that honors the best of the best in New York State baseball, recognizing coaches, players, and contributors who have made significant contributions to the sport.
* What is Scott Steltz’s record as a coach?
Steltz has a record of almost 400 wins, 11 patroon titles, five section titles, and one state championship in 26 years as the head coach of the Chatham varsity program.
* What sets Steltz apart as a coach?
Steltz’s commitment to his players, his extensive knowledge of the game, and his ability to share that knowledge with his players have set him apart as a coach. His emphasis on discipline and hard work has helped shape many young athletes.
