We love a good local sports plot twist, and our weekly chat with Corey Riggs brought an absolute gem to the table this morning. While the summer heat is settling into Southwest Missouri, things are just starting to warm up over at Route 66 Stadium for the highly anticipated Grip and Rip League this August. We caught up with Corey to discuss everything from NFL backup quarterbacks to local baseball legends making unexpected comebacks.

The Ultimate Gig: NFL Backup Quarterback

Before diving into the local diamond, we couldn’t help but marvel at the life of an NFL backup quarterback. Discussing how guys like Kirk Cousins and others manage the dynamics of mentoring younger talent, we agreed there might not be a better job in America than holding a clipboard, running the scout team, and collecting a paycheck without taking the big hits. But while the pros are navigating training camps, the real competitive fire this morning was focused right here in Springfield.

Joey Hawkins Takes the Field

The biggest story of the weekend dropped when the Grip and Rip League held its tryouts, and a very familiar name popped up on the roster sheets: Joey Hawkins. Yes, that Joey Hawkins—the current Missouri State University Bears baseball head coach. As Corey pointed out, the competitive fire in Hawk burns just as bright today as it did back in 2015 when he was an elite senior shortstop playing under the legendary Keith Guttin.

Showcasing the Shortstop Skills

Corey, who travels with the MSU Bears during the spring, let us in on a little secret: Hawk never truly stopped playing. Whether he’s working with Jeff Jimenez or jumping into unique infield drills himself, Hawkins is still flashing serious leather at shortstop during team practices. He’s tracking to bring his absolute “A-game” to the field this August, and it’s safe to say it elevates the entire profile of the league.

Heckling the Head Coach

The burning question now is how the community—and his own players—will react. Will the Missouri State Bears baseball roster show up to Route 66 Stadium in the fall to give their head coach a taste of his own medicine from the stands? We had a lot of fun imagining his players shouting coaching tips from the baseline, telling him to get his “A-swing” off on the first three pitches. One thing is for sure: if Keith Guttin decides to come out of retirement to manage one of these squads, Springfield sports fans are in for an unforgettable summer show.