Phase 1: Data Collection Layer (Months 0-6)
Free Mobile App: "AtBat Tracker"
The Hook: Dead-simple stat tracking for parents
Parent sitting in bleachers opens app when their kid comes to bat
Simple Interface:
- Tap result: Hit, Out, Walk, Strikeout, HBP, Error
- Optional details: Type of hit, pitch count, game situation
- Automatic calculation: Real-time batting average, OBP, slugging
- Instant sharing: Generate shareable graphics for social media
Why This Works:
- ✅ Solves immediate parent pain: "What's my kid's real batting average?"
- ✅ Requires zero expertise to use
- ✅ Builds verified, timestamped performance data
- ✅ Network effects: More parents tracking = more complete data
- ✅ Gamification: Parents love tracking their kids
The Hidden Value: You're building the authenticated performance database that becomes the moat. Every at-bat tracked = more data you own.
Technical Implementation:
- Mobile: React Native (deploy to iOS/Android simultaneously)
- Backend: Node.js, PostgreSQL
- Features: Geolocation tagging, timestamp verification, multi-game tracking
- Budget: $5-10K (mostly sweat equity)
Phase 2: Premium Service Layer (Months 6-18)
"Recruiting Reality Check" Package
Once you have verified data, offer premium service: $299-499
Package Includes:
- 60-minute strategy consultation with realistic target assessment
- Professional recruiting profile built from verified AtBat data
- Video highlight compilation (we provide guidance or basic assembly)
- Personalized target school list (10-15 realistic fits based on data)
- Direct coach outreach on player's behalf to targeted schools
- 30-day follow-up and adjustment based on feedback
Why Parents Pay:
- ✅ You already have their verified data (low friction)
- ✅ Verified stats build credibility vs. inflated claims
- ✅ Personalized approach vs. spray-and-pray
- ✅ Reasonable price point vs. $1,500-2,000 alternatives
- ✅ Honest assessment (not false hope)
Fulfillment Strategy:
- Months 6-12: Founder does all consultations manually (learn what works)
- Months 12-18: Hire 1-2 recruiting consultants with coaching backgrounds
- Goal: 200-600 packages in first 12 months = $75-250K revenue
Phase 3: Two-Sided Marketplace (Months 18-36)
Platform Connecting Verified Players with Active Coaches
Build the marketplace once both sides are proven
For Players (Freemium Model):
Free Tier:
- Basic profile with verified stats from app
- Public visibility to coaches
- Limited search functionality
Premium ($99/year):
- Enhanced profile with video integration
- Coach search tools and filters
- Performance analytics dashboard
- Priority in search results
Elite ($299/year):
- All Premium features
- One-on-one consultant access
- Advanced predictive matching
- Direct messaging with coaches
For Coaches (Subscription Model):
Free Tier:
- Browse verified public profiles
- Basic search filters
- Save up to 10 players
Basic ($49/month):
- Advanced search and filters
- Save unlimited players
- Export contact information
- Recruitment pipeline tools
Pro ($199/month):
- All Basic features
- In-platform messaging
- Integration with recruiting software
- Priority support
Team ($499/month):
- Multi-user access for coaching staff
- Advanced collaboration tools
- Custom reporting and analytics
Network Effects Kick In: More players → more coaches → higher player value → more players. Once you hit 5-10K active users, the flywheel accelerates.