#096 From USNA to the MLB: Serving America While Chasing Big League Dreams (Part 1)

The Academy Insider Podcast - Your Guide to The Naval Academy Experience

As a Naval Academy graduate, professional baseball player, and author, Mitch Harris brings a unique perspective to the challenges of balancing military service and personal aspirations. In this compelling two-part episode, we explore Mitch's journey from Annapolis to the major leagues, and the unexpected obstacles he faced along the way.

Mitch's story isn't just about athletic achievement; it's a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. From his initial uncertainty about the Naval Academy to becoming a surface warfare officer and eventually pitching for the St. Louis Cardinals, Mitch's path was anything but straightforward.

A Story of Triumph and Personal Growth

This episode offers more than just a recounting of Mitch's accomplishments. It provides a raw and honest look at the realities of military life, the strain it can put on personal relationships, and the inner strength required to overcome life's unexpected challenges.

Mitch's candid reflections on his struggles and the lessons he learned offer valuable insights for:

• Current and prospective Naval Academy students
• Military families navigating the complexities of service life
• Anyone facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles in pursuit of their dreams

Lessons in Resilience and Self-Discovery

Through Mitch's experiences, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of:

• The true value of a Naval Academy education beyond academics
• How military service shapes character and personal growth
• The importance of maintaining focus on long-term goals, even in difficult circumstances
• Finding strength and support in unexpected places

Join us for this inspiring conversation that showcases the indomitable spirit of those who serve our nation while pursuing their personal passions. Mitch's story reminds us that with determination and the right mindset, it's possible to overcome life's toughest challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

The mission of Academy Insider is to guide, serve, and support Midshipmen, future Midshipmen, and their families.
Grant Vermeer your host is the person who started it all. He is the founder of Academy Insider and the host of The Academy Insider podcast. He was a recruited athlete which brought him to Annapolis where he was a four year member of the varsity basketball team. He was a cyber operations major and commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community. He was stationed at Fort Meade and supported the Subsurface Direct Support mission.

He separated from the Navy in 2023 and now owns The Vermeer Group, a residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community with nationwide consulting and connection.

We are here to be your guide through the USNA experience.

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If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, have an idea, question or topic you would like to see covered, reach out: [email protected].

Chapters

1. Introduction to Mitch Harris (00:00:00)

2. Naval Academy Recruitment and I-Day (00:07:31)

3. Signing the 2-for-7 Commitment (00:10:17)

4. Life as a Surface Warfare Officer (00:17:22)

5. Academic Challenges and Baseball Career (00:26:13)

6. Overcoming Personal Adversity (00:26:55)