A playbook prepares you to succeed on the field.

“This playbook attempts to serve a similar function both on and off the field and offer tips and tools that draw on experiences of a former student-athletes personal growth over two decades. I trust my journey and the tools I have utilized to succeed academically, athletically and socially will empower current and prospective student-athletes alike. It will also empower family, friends, coaches, and faculty to connect and help their student-athletes thrive. I wish you the best as you embark on this exciting chapter of your life.”

~ Robert Grilli

About Robert

My name is Robert Grilli, I’m 5’9 175lbs (as per my baseball roster), have the ability to grow a mean beard which I attribute to my country of origin as it serves as a blanket of warmth during the perceived 365 days of igloo weather and polar bear riding season. Jokes aside, I am from Canada, born and raised. I attended St. Dunstan Elementary school. I graduated from St. Michael’s College school (SMC) in downtown Toronto at 17 and left home at 18. I attended Salt Lake Community College in Utah for two years, I was recruited to and graduated from the University of Houston with Bachelor of Science in Economics with a minor in Business in Spring 2016.

The goal of “The Playbook: A Student-Athlete’s Guide to Success” is to offer advice to those juggling academics and athletics while in college. This playbook attempts to serve a similar function both on and off the field and offer tips and tools that draw on experiences of a former student-athletes personal growth over two decades.

Praise

“Robert Grilli knows how to balance school and work. Check out his new book!”

NCAA, Champion Magazine

Max Domi: Arizona Coyotes (NHL) star

“Everybody check out Robert Grilli’s new book. It’s a MUST READ.”

Todd Whitting: Head Coach, University of Houston baseball team

“Proud of Robert Grilli. Check out his new book.”

Leo Rautins: Former NBA player,

current Toronto Raptors (NBA) TV analyst

“I’ve been going through Robert’s new book. It is impressive!!!!”

Cal Quantrill: Stanford Graduate & 8th Overall MLB Draft Pick ‘16

“Shoutout my boy Robert Grilli for releasing his new book. More than an athlete!”

Lauren Dubois,
Associate Athletics Director for Compliance,
The University of Houston

“Robert truly exemplifies the term “student-athlete”. While dedicating over 20 hours a week toward playing baseball for the University of Houston, he maintained over a 3.5 cumulative GPA and graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in economics. Robert was able to balance his sport, academics, community service, and still maintain an active social life throughout his time in collegiate athletics. He has served as a role model to all student-athletes following in his footsteps and will continue to do so for years to come.”

Paul Quantrill,
14 year Major League Baseball Career

“I’ve always appreciated and respected Robert’s abilities on a ball diamond, but it’s Robert’s ability to balance his baseball, family, and academics where he truly shines.”

Maxx Tissenbaum, Professional Baseball Player,
An All-American and a member of the 2012 College World Series,
Stony Brook Seawolves

“When I think back on my time as a student-athlete I think not only of the accomplishments on the baseball field, but also of the trials and tribulations as a student, and as a young adult away from home for the first time.

Robert Grilli, a close friend and fellow Division 1 baseball player, has exhibited the commitment, discipline, and leadership required to thrive as a student-athlete throughout his college career.

As an undersized Canadian baseball player his dogged determination lead him on a journey to Junior College and then to a Division 1 Top 25 program. He has continued to push forward in the face of adversity, and remained steadfast in his love for the game, the team and “the grind.”

Who better to take us through life as a student-athlete than someone who has done it at every level, with class, dignity and a dedication to all aspects of life as a student-athlete?”

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