Behind in the Count: My Journey from Juvenile Delinquent to Baseball Agent

by Kurt M. Varricchio

Kurt Varricchio redefines the meaning of a difficult childhood in his intimate memoir, Behind in the My Journey from Juvenile Delinquent to Baseball Agent. Whether it was trying to fill his empty stomach with one last scoop of Ovaltine, getting tied to a tree, being punished with a wrench, or sleeping on the rooftops of local strip malls, Kurt’s survival is nothing short of miraculous. After losing his father at two-years-old, his childhood commenced in a dilapidated home where physical and emotional abuse ran rampant. So, Kurt did what he had to do to run. And steal. After several trips to juvenile hall and group homes across the state of Florida, law officials, prison guards, and even his own family thought his fate was sealed—right behind those impenetrable bars. Kurt was ultimately removed from his family and placed in Florida’s Foster Care System just before his 12th birthday.It would’ve been easy to quit, but this isn’t Kurt. Even as a child, he knew he didn’t want his broken past to define him. He persevered, focusing on his academic and emotional development. After graduating from high school with a 4.0 grade point average, Kurt received a full ride to Florida State University, then continued his education at the University of Texas at Austin, receiving a Master’s in Education. In search of a “new normal”, Kurt understood that education was paramount. Eventually, Kurt obtained his law degree and has been working in professional sports since 1995, first in the NFL and MLB, then as a sports agent. Providing a first-hand glimpse of what it takes to transform a chronic juvenile delinquent into a productive member of society, Kurt reflects on his childhood with a poignant examination of the hard work required to battle when the odds are against you. No matter how behind you are in the count, Kurt reminds us that you can always mold yourself into the person you want to be.

260 pages, Paperback

Published June 12, 2018

About the author

Kurt Varricchio is the President and Founder of KVA Sports, LLC, a sports agency based in Orange County, California. Certified by the MLB Players Association, Kurt has been involved in professional sports ever since he completed his collegiate degrees. An alumnus of The University of Texas at Austin and Florida State University, he holds a Master’s in Sports Administration and a BA in Media Performance. He is also a licensed attorney and represents many of his professional baseball clients in the areas of business law/litigation, intellectual property, and entertainment law.

Prior to becoming a sports agent and attorney, Kurt held positions with the Kansas City Chiefs (1995-96) and the San Diego Padres (1996-2002). He has represented athletes in Major League Baseball, the National Football League, professional boxing, mixed martial arts, and multiple Olympic sports. Today, Kurt’s time is spent almost exclusively with professional baseball players. Frequently advising them in the Annual MLB Draft, he represents these players throughout their professional and international careers.

Although Kurt’s time is devoted primarily to KVA Sports, he still has his own legal practice, the Law Offices of Kurt Varricchio, and always makes time for his loving wife and two adventurous sons.

Reviews

[Jennifer Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabbed my attention right away, starting with the author in the Juvenile detention cell at 11 years old. I read this book in approx. 24 hours; I couldn't put it down because I didn't want to stop thinking about this kid in & out of juvenile detention!
From the title, as the reader we know there's a happy ending. If I started the book not knowing that, I might have put it down. There is very hurtful behavior from his family members that is hard to read.
However, knowing he becomes a baseball agent, I stayed hooked and wanted to find out about his path to redemption and restorative behavior. It's a miraculous story, and gave me hope that the future for hurting, abused children isn't always doomed for tragedy.

[Jennifer Smalley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for all educators and social workers. The author’s resilience and keen perception of people is inspiring. A good view into why some people who grow up in dysfunction thrive while others crumble.

[Lyn Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational and uplifting. This true story should be mandatory reading for all kids and adults too. Such impactful life lessons that make you think about what you can do to deal with the curve balls life throws at you!

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this as a recommendation from CASA OC and it is so well-written. A very moving, open, and honest depiction of the life of a troubled youth and what caused his childhood trauma. It is a long journey toward his own self-redemption. Highly recommend.

[Sue Blackman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible book and life story. I work at a public library so I am going to suggest that we add it to our collection. Very inspirational. I strongly suggest reading it.

[Ajai Deivendran]

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[Vanuza · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!! I can’t find words to describe how I loved to read this book.
Magnificent.