RVC-Grad-Takes-His-Shot-at-the-Big-Leagues.php

RVC Grad Takes His Shot at the Big Leagues

When Logan Lott graduated from Rock Valley College, he carried more than memories of the baseball diamond he carried a dream that would take him from the dugout to the umpire’s plate, with hopes of one day standing among the game’s elite.

 

Logan Lott calling a player safe during the Midwest Conference Tournament last fall.

Logan Lott calling a player safe during the Midwest Conference Tournament last fall.

Logan’s roots in the game run deep. Inspired by his Hall of Fame father, Sonny Lott, Logan has spent years officiating baseball, football, and basketball games across the Midwest. "The biggest challenge has been patience and persistence. The journey to professional umpiring is long," Logan shares. "Being selected to  attend the MLB Umpire Camp in Vero Beach, Florida, was a two-year process and that process isn’t finished yet."

At RVC, Logan served as an assistant coach for the Golden Eagles from 2022 to 2024 under Coach Howard and Coach Herren. He credits his time at Rock Valley for sharpening his leadership skills and giving him real responsibility early on. "Coach Chad Herren has been amajor influence. He took a chance on me as a student coach and gave me real responsibility. That experience deepened my appreciation for preparation and accountability," Logan recalls.

While at RVC, Logan built friendships with players and staff, developed his craft, and learned the value of preparation on and off the field. He also learned that every moment matters: "My parents have always told me, 'You are interviewing even before you get to the interview.' That mindset has helped me stay disciplined. Whether it’s a small assignment in class or a Little League game, the professionalism you display is being observed."

Logan’s post-college journey has been marked by ambition and hard work. After years of officiating, he was selected as one of just over 50 umpires invited to the prestigious MLB camp in Vero Beach a rigorous, multi-day experience filled with classroom sessions, on-field drills, and testing. "The camp itself was intense. The classroom sessions and on-field work consumed each day. The testing was rigorous, both mentally and physically. It’s only the second of four major steps toward becoming a full-time MLB umpire," Logan explains. Now, he is working closely with MLB supervisors and veteran umpires, striving to exceed their expectations and earn a minor league assignment this summer.

Mentorship has played a powerful role in Logan’s story. In addition to support from Coach Herren and the RVC community, Logan has benefited from guidance across the officiating world including professionals who assign officials in basketball and football. "Officiating multiple sports throughout the year not only helps me stay in top physical condition, but it also strengthens my professional connections. Talent might open a door, but relationships, professionalism, and trust keep it open."

“He truly cared about the team, kept things positive, and his character is off the charts. I love following his career,” Coach Herren adds.

Logan’s advice for current RVC students and alumni is clear: "Meet people. Earn respect. Get involved. Do every assignment to the best of your ability. Even when a project feels small, it’s preparing you for something bigger. Your reputation travels ahead of you. Align yourself with leaders in your field. Be someone they can trust. And don’t underestimate the power of starting close to home if that’s where the opportunity is."

Looking ahead, Logan is focused on the next step: "Being selected for the MLB Umpire Camp in Vero Beach was an incredible honor and one that only a few get to attend. It validated several years of preparation and confirmed that I’m on the right path, but it’s not the finish line. My immediate goal is to continue exceeding expectations, strengthen the relationships I’ve built, and earn a minor league assignment. The ultimate goal is to become a full-time MLB umpire."

Logan’s journey is a testament to perseverance, mentorship, and the value of community. His story reminds us that success comes from showing up, working hard, and making every moment count. As he pursues the next chapter of his umpiring dream, the entire RVC community is cheering him on.

“Logan’s passion for the game stood out right away. He absorbed information, paid attention to details, and was always willing to help the team and staff."