Dave Winfield, former MVP of the 1973 College World Series, who went on to have a 22-year Hall of Fame baseball career with many teams including the Padres, Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays, was the primary speaker along with Dennie Poppe, VP Baseball and Football for the NCAA. Before a crowd of 22,000 and the final 8 teams of the baseball season including Texas,Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, South Carolina, North Carolina, California, Virginia and Florida, Winfield provided some words of wisdom for all those who are following the same path as he did.

The speech is truncated here:

"A lot has gone on in NCAA baseball since I left in 1973. Hundreds of great players and student athletes have passed through here, whether they played professional baseball or not, many have gone on to do great things for their families, home towns and this country. College Baseball and the College World Series experience in Omaha has meant everything to me. It helped me grow and mature as an athlete and person. The 4 years spent at the University of Minnesota, the friendships, the competition, the worldview I gained became the cornerstone of my life and career. I was blessed to reach the pinnacle of my baseball career, and the Hall of Fame. But, know that after your good year in school and starting this week you can do the same and start living your own Hall of Fame life; and you can do that by seizing your education, facing your challenges, overcoming obstacles and be willing to learn and grow everyday for the rest of your life. Be respectful of others and never forget all those that helped you become who you are and continue helping you reach your goals, that includes your parents and coaches. Whatever you do in this tournament, remember I am happy for you. I am proud of you because together we have shared the same great baseball tradition that is called the College World Series. With that I wish you all the best. God Bless you all and thank you."

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