From Glenview Announcements, Charlie Clark, April 28, 2016

Glenbrook South senior outfielder Jordan Libman has turned himself from an above-average player into a future college baseball player with hard work and drive.

Following his junior year of high school, the Illinois State commit had a revelation and decided to take leadership of the Titans.

"I looked at myself in the mirror and said, 'You know, am I really ready for college ball?' " Libman said. "I started committing to the weights, committing to my swing, trying to make the steps you need to make to play at the next level."

Libman, who is listed on the Prep Baseball Report website as 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds, noted that the primary adjustment he's made this season has been to his swing.

"I've just been trying to develop a Division-I swing," the left-handed batting Libman said. "I'm trying to stay shorter and have a smoother swing. (Titans coach Steve Stanicek) is really helping me make those adjustments."

Stanicek noticed Libman's motivation in the weight room more than anything.

"He was a leader in the weight room. He took it seriously," Stanicek said. "His demeanor and his effort (in the weight room) during the offseason were outstanding."

Stanicek played for Rich East in Park Forest and Nebraska, before being drafted 11th overall in 1982 by the San Francisco Giants. He reached the majors in 1987 with the Milwaukee Brewers and played four games. Stanicek played nine more games with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1989.

Stanicek's major league experience, albeit brief, has proved invaluable for Libman, who hopes to follow in the steps of his coach.

"It's pretty awesome, (Stanicek) is a very knowledgeable guy and a great coach," Libman said. "He's gone through it all. The goal is always to get drafted, and he gives me a lot of good advice on what to do."

In addition to playing for Glenbrook South, Libman also has played for the Top Tier club.

"They have a lot of pro guys who help out a lot and share advice," Libman said. "They're also very knowledgeable and committed."

One instructor, Griffin Phelps, taught Libman following his sophomore year of high school. Phelps also praised Libman's dedication.

"Jordan has the desire to see how good he can be. He's really, really put himself in a position to say, 'OK, I think I can do this, let's find out now.' He's not afraid of failure. He tries to see how good he can be and he does a great job of handling failure."