Tim McDowell: From Pitching to Pitching In - A Journey of Support and Recovery
It takes a community and a team to support recovery and, as you hear me say, often the troops aren't coming.
Imagine dedicating your life to a sport, only to find your true calling in helping others off the field. In this episode of the 'Addict II Athlete Podcast', Coach Blu Robinson sits down with Tim McDowell, a former minor league pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates and now a clinical director of the Baseball Assistance Team (B.A.T.).
From 1988 to 1991, Tim was on the mound, but today, he's in a different kind of game – one that involves supporting those struggling with addiction and recovery within the baseball community. Tim shares his unique journey from professional sports to becoming a masters-level therapist. He talks about the founding of B.A.T. in 1986 by former Major League Baseball players who wanted to offer confidential help to their peers in need.
This episode dives deep into the importance of having a strong support system and how it takes a team effort to overcome addiction. Coach Blu and Tim also tackle the stigma surrounding addiction, especially in the world of sports. They discuss how better education and preparation for young athletes can make a significant difference.
The conversation doesn't shy away from the mental health impacts of COVID-19 on former athletes, highlighting the importance of self-care and healing for addiction counselors and therapists alike. Join Coach Blu and Tim as they explore these crucial topics, reminding us all that recovery is a team effort. Whether you're an athlete, a fan, or someone seeking support in their own recovery journey, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.