The Godfather of SEC Baseball: A Conversation with Coach Ron Polk

In this special episode of the Robertson and Easterling Podcast, Craig Robertson sits down with legendary Mississippi State coach Ron Polk—known to many as the "Godfather of SEC Baseball"—for a heartfelt and insightful conversation that spans over half a century of baseball history, mentorship, and legacy.

From his early childhood in Arizona, where his father — a former semi-pro ballplayer—first introduced him to the game, to his rise as one of the most influential coaches in NCAA history, Coach Polk shares stories that have shaped his life and career. Listeners will hear about his humble beginnings, his mother’s health struggles which prompted his family's cross-country move, his journey through college and graduate school, and the pivotal moments that led him to Starkville, leading the USA baseball team and beyond.

With 1,373 career wins, 8 College World Series appearances, and over 180 players drafted into professional baseball, Coach Polk’s impact on the game is undeniable. But this episode goes deeper than stats—it reveals the heart of a man who has dedicated his life to machine-like service, who still writes handwritten letters to former players, and who built a home that doubles as a museum to honor the teams and people he’s loved along the way.

Whether you're a lifelong Bulldog fan, a lover of baseball, or just someone who appreciates a life of service well lived, this episode offers a rare and personal glimpse into the legacy of a true American sports icon.