Jason and Erin Cohen

Co-Directors of Baseball & Softball Operations/Co-Owners of East Coast Athletics Baseball & Softball

Erin and Jason Cohen reside in Pleasantville, NY with their 3 boys and dog. They are very active in the sports community as their kids play various sports all year round. Jason spent 25 years as a CEO/CFO in commodities but always had a passion for sports and coaching in his spare time. Erin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice who has been on the Byram Hills Soccer Club board for six years and has managed her sons’ various sports teams as a way to stay involved in the community. When not working, they are usually with their three boys at their games or practices. COVID enabled Erin and Jason to reflect on their life’s purpose and decided to get involved in a business whose mission is to provide a place with programs and services for every single person, no matter what age, gender, or athletic ability. Their goal as owners of East Coast Sports & Fitness is for everyone to be able to be active in a safe, non-judgmental, and welcoming environment, as well as to help develop more well-rounded student-athletes. This includes running a baseball & softball program that is built to empower individuals through the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship. Their mission is to cultivate a community where passion for the game thrives while strengthening physical and mental well-being. They can finally live out this dream of providing a place where families can be active and play sports in an environment conducive to learning and developing the right way. You will often find them behind the desk and see their kids on the turf, courts, or in the gym with friends, so be sure to introduce yourselves!

Omar Artsen

Head of Player Development/Baseball Coach

Omar Artsen is a dedicated and passionate baseball coach with a remarkable journey that has shaped him into the mentor he is today.  He is the Founder of OSIX Athletics, which has a home at East Coast. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Omar developed a love for baseball at a later age, starting his competitive journey at 15. Despite the late start, his commitment and work ethic propelled him to achieve extraordinary heights in college, earning the titles of All-American and Conference Player of the Year.

After facing the challenge of going undrafted, Omar ventured into finance, where he discovered parallels between finance and the team spirit of baseball. He decided to reignite his baseball career and joined the professional team Santa Fe Fuegos in the Pecos League. Omar seamlessly adapted to the professional level, becoming the League’s MVP and stolen base leader, leading the Fuegos to a championship victory.

Omar’s exceptional performance caught the attention of Major League Baseball teams, and he went on to play in the highly competitive Atlantic League with the Lexington Legends, clinching another championship title. Throughout his nine-year professional career, Omar honed his ability to analyze and dissect a player’s swing through studying film to enhance his own performance.

Omar transitioned into coaching during the offseason, quickly gaining recognition for his prowess. His coaching focuses on players of all ages and skill levels, with satisfied parents and ecstatic children attesting to his ability to impart invaluable knowledge of the game. While Omar excelled as a player, his true calling is sharing his profound understanding and passion for the game with aspiring athletes. As a personal baseball coach, Omar not only helps improve skills but also fosters a deep appreciation for the sport. Join him on an exciting journey to take your baseball game to the next level. https://osixathletics.com/

https://osixathletics.com/

Paul Martinez

Baseball Coach

Meet coach Paul Martinez, a seasoned and inspirational figure in the local baseball community, whose passion for the game has not only shaped numerous players but also had left an indelible mark on the sport.

Known for a coaching style that combines expertise with a motivational touch, coach Paul has successfully cultivated a culture of passion,dedication, and sportsmanship within their teams. Through strategic drills,insightful feedback, and a commitment to individual player development.

Beyond the technical aspects of the game,coach Paul places a strong emphasis on character-building and instilling life skills in their players. The lessons learned on the baseball field, under coach Paul’s guidance, extend far beyond the foul lines, preparing athletes for success on and off the field.

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Coach Paul is actively involved in the broader baseball community. Conducting clinics, organizing local tournaments and contributing to the development of youth baseball programs 

As a coach,and mentor of the game, Coach Paul continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of those he coaches.

Paul Martinez

Baseball Coach

Meet coach Paul Martinez, a seasoned and inspirational figure in the local baseball community, whose passion for the game has not only shaped numerous players but also had left an indelible mark on the sport.

Known for a coaching style that combines expertise with a motivational touch, coach Paul has successfully cultivated a culture of passion,dedication, and sportsmanship within their teams. Through strategic drills,insightful feedback, and a commitment to individual player development.

Beyond the technical aspects of the game,coach Paul places a strong emphasis on character-building and instilling life skills in their players. The lessons learned on the baseball field, under coach Paul’s guidance, extend far beyond the foul lines, preparing athletes for success on and off the field.

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Coach Paul is actively involved in the broader baseball community. Conducting clinics, organizing local tournaments and contributing to the development of youth baseball programs 

As a coach,and mentor of the game, Coach Paul continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of those he coaches.

Rafael Rigueiro

Baseball Coach

Rafael Rigueiro was born and raised in Riverside, California, to parents Hector and Enedina. Growing up in Riverside, he attended J.W. North High School, where he honed his skills on the baseball diamond. After graduating, Rafael pursued interpreting and linguistics at Riverside City College.

Rafael attended both OU and SNU to major in Interpreting/Linguistics. However, in 1998 Rafael was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 33rd round, marking the beginning of his professional baseball career.

Despite facing setbacks due to injuries, including Tommy John surgery in 2005, Rafael remained resilient. He was drafted again in 2000, this time by the San Francisco Giants in the 17th round. He spent four years in the Giants’ minor league system, showcasing his pitching prowess and earning recognition for his stellar performances.

Throughout his baseball journey, Rafael accumulated invaluable experience, both as a player and as a coach. Despite his injuries, he continued to share his passion and knowledge of baseball through 15 years on instruction and coaching. Rafael’s dedication to teaching extended to providing individual and group lessons for pitching, fielding, and hitting.

Though his professional playing career may have had its challenges, his impact on the sport and his dedication to coaching continue to inspire those around him.

Keith D’Amore

Baseball Coach

High School: 5-year varsity experience from Long Island, New York:
    – All-Conference Honors 

College: S.U.N.Y College at Cortland

Baseball Experience: Played 3+ years in Minors at various levels

Coaching/Instruction Experience from ages 6 through College Prep:

• Both Group and Individual Hitting Instructor for town and competitive travel teams including girls fastpitch
• Tee Ball
• Little League
• Youth Select/Travel Team (8u, 9u, 10u, 12u, 13u, 15u, College Prep)
  • Multiple Perfect Game Championships
  • New York Elite Baseball
  • Cooperstown Dreams Park 2019 Week 13 Champions
  • PBR

Ryan Barba

BASEBALL COACH

Originally from Milford, his love for baseball began at an early age. He played PONY Baseball in Stratford for their 10U and 12U All Star Teams, and then joined the CT Metros AAU travel team for the following 4 years. In high school, he was the starting shortstop and moved to 3rd base and DH for his senior year. Ryan continued to follow his passion for baseball by joining the D2 program at the University of Bridgeport. Sophomore to senior year, he was the starting 3rd baseman and held a batting average over .300. During those summers, he played for the West Haven Twilight collegiate league, where he was named Rookie of the Year and 2nd Baseman of the All-Team. After college, Ryan played for the Stratford Storm (winners of the NABF World Series 2014 – Battle Creek, Michigan) where he won the World Series hitting title (batting .500) and was named to the World Series All-Tournament team.

Ryan later discovered his passion of working with young athletes when he began assistant coaching and working as a hitting instructor for Tucci Baseball in Norwalk, CT. He has also been the assistant coach for the CT Grind and was the Head coach for the 12U NorthStar Naturals in Poughkeepsie, NY. Ryan is very grateful for this new chapter and looks forward to sharing his love of baseball with the next generation.

Ryan Barba

BASEBALL COACH

Originally from Milford, his love for baseball began at an early age. He played PONY Baseball in Stratford for their 10U and 12U All Star Teams, and then joined the CT Metros AAU travel team for the following 4 years. In high school, he was the starting shortstop and moved to 3rd base and DH for his senior year. Ryan continued to follow his passion for baseball by joining the D2 program at the University of Bridgeport. Sophomore to senior year, he was the starting 3rd baseman and held a batting average over .300. During those summers, he played for the West Haven Twilight collegiate league, where he was named Rookie of the Year and 2nd Baseman of the All-Team. After college, Ryan played for the Stratford Storm (winners of the NABF World Series 2014 – Battle Creek, Michigan) where he won the World Series hitting title (batting .500) and was named to the World Series All-Tournament team.

Ryan later discovered his passion of working with young athletes when he began assistant coaching and working as a hitting instructor for Tucci Baseball in Norwalk, CT. He has also been the assistant coach for the CT Grind and was the Head coach for the 12U NorthStar Naturals in Poughkeepsie, NY. Ryan is very grateful for this new chapter and looks forward to sharing his love of baseball with the next generation.

Steven Scwartz

BASEBALL COACH

Steven Schwartz is a seasoned baseball professional with a passion for education and sports. As a former college center fielder and pitcher from the University of Hartford, Coach Schwartz brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the world of travel baseball.

With over 10 years of coaching experience under Coach Schwartz’s belt, including the past couple of years devoted to travel baseball, he has a proven track record of developing young athletes both on and off the field. Coach Schwartz’s dedication to mentorship and nurturing talent has been instrumental in shaping the future of countless players as well as his career as an educator. This includes the past couple of years as a Travel Coach for the BHK Thunder where he took 8 years old and played up a year against mostly 9 year olds. 

As a product of the University of Hartford athletics program, Coach Schwartz understands the importance of instilling both discipline and a growth mindset in players. This unique blend of understanding the sport and valuing education creates the perfect balance for young athletes looking to thrive both academically and athletically.

Coach Steve’s experience as a center fielder and pitcher at the collegiate level has honed his strategic thinking, leadership skills, and ability to excel under pressure. These qualities, coupled with his passion for guiding young athletes toward success, and team-first mentality make him a perfect fit for the East Coast A’s travel baseball community.

In addition to baseball proficiency, Coach Schwartz brings a genuine passion for education. He understands the value of maintaining a strong academic foundation while pursuing athletic dreams and actively encourages all players to prioritize their studies inside and outside the game of baseball. Coach Schwartz believes that the skills developed through baseball, such as teamwork, perseverance, and discipline, can be translated into lifelong success both in and out of the classroom.

With Coach Schwartz as part of the A’s family, the travel baseball program guarantees a nurturing and constructive environment for players seeking to elevate their skills, enhance their understanding of the game, and cultivate personal growth. Whether it’s refining baseball skills, fostering teamwork, or instilling a love for the sport, Coach Schwartz is dedicated to providing an enriching experience that empowers young athletes to excel in all aspects of their lives.

Matt Arduino

Baseball Coach

Matthew Arduino grew up with a love for baseball. At the high school level, he spent two years on Norwalk High School’s varsity team. He spent time after college coaching Fall ball teams as well as coaching teams for disabled adults. Matt has also grown a passion for the health and fitness side of the game by spending four years as a fitness instructor/coach. When he isn’t coaching baseball, he works as an aide for adults with disabilities. He is passionate about helping others on and off the field, shown through his compassion and energy! 

Mike Reynolds

BASEBALL COACH

• Owner/Operator – Jr. Baller Sports Academy since 2014
• Division 1 Walk-on at West Virginia University (2000-2001)
• Left-handed Pitcher, Center Fielder
• Scholarship baseball player at Division 2 Concordia College in NY (2002-2005)
• Division 2 Walk-on basketball player Concordia College
• Hendrick Hudson High School
• 3 Consecutive League Championships (1998-2000)
• (67-11) Team Record
• 1 Section Title (2000) 
• (26-2) Record
• #1 Ranked team in NYS. Class B.
• Pitching record 98-2000, (24-6)
• All League/ All Section awards (1998-2000)
• Represented the Hudson Valley Region in Empire State games  (Baseball ‘99)

 Coach Mike has a passion for helping kids at all levels of development find their confidence and full athletic potential through instruction that leads with patience and drills that kids can easily learn and find success with. He is available for individual and small group baseball and basketball lessons and classes.

Chris Suleski

CATCHING COACH

-Played 5 years at Rutgers-Newark in the NJAC Conference

-All conference

-All Region 

-2 weeks with Staten Island Ferry Hawks 2023 

-Played against the Savannah Bananas

-Bullpen caught for Aguilas vs Licey at Citi Field under pickleball 

Maddy Lowry

SOFTBALL COACH

Current pitcher at Iona University 

• Freshman year: Named to the MAAC all-rookie team 

4 Year Varsity softball player at Howell High School (New Jersey) 

• Holds High school record for career strikeouts, career wins, career shutouts, single-season strikeouts, single-season shutouts 
• Two-time Conference All Division team 
• Two-time all-state group 4 3rd team 
• All-Shore conference 2nd team 
• High school Conference’s player of the year 2019

Experience coaching 10u, 12u and 14u travel teams 

Experience in private hitting, pitching, catching and fielding lessons/group clinics 

Omari Lawrence

BASKETBALL INSTRUCTOR

Coach Omari Lawrence is currently serving as the Dean of Students in the Department of Education. He has had a successful career as a basketball player, having played for Kansas State University. During his time with the team, he played an instrumental role in helping them advance to three NCAA Tournaments and win the Big 12 Championship.

Apart from his athletic achievements, Coach Lawrence also excelled academically. He was named to the Spring 2013 Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll, which recognizes student-athletes who achieve a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

After his playing career, Coach Lawrence transitioned to coaching and education. He has since gained extensive experience working with students in various academic and athletic settings. As Dean of Students, he continues to use his expertise to support and mentor students in achieving their goals.

Coach Lawrence is highly regarded in his field and has earned a reputation for being an outstanding educator and mentor. He remains passionate about helping students succeed and dedicates himself to positively impacting their lives.

Omari Lawrence

BASKETBALL INSTRUCTOR

Coach Omari Lawrence is currently serving as the Dean of Students in the Department of Education. He has had a successful career as a basketball player, having played for Kansas State University. During his time with the team, he played an instrumental role in helping them advance to three NCAA Tournaments and win the Big 12 Championship.

Apart from his athletic achievements, Coach Lawrence also excelled academically. He was named to the Spring 2013 Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll, which recognizes student-athletes who achieve a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

After his playing career, Coach Lawrence transitioned to coaching and education. He has since gained extensive experience working with students in various academic and athletic settings. As Dean of Students, he continues to use his expertise to support and mentor students in achieving their goals.

Coach Lawrence is highly regarded in his field and has earned a reputation for being an outstanding educator and mentor. He remains passionate about helping students succeed and dedicates himself to positively impacting their lives.

Alan Zahn

Pickleball Instructor

 Coming from a tennis background where Alan has been to the USTA nationals seven times, he discovered and quickly became obsessed with pickleball. Alan has competed from 4.0 to senior pro levels and has won multiple gold medals. He has a passion for coaching and is on a journey to pass on the love and many health and emotional benefits of pickleball, so Alan created the A-Z Pickleball Academy. Alan is certified by the IPTPA, and PPR as a professional coach and has the newly designated junior coach certification.

Gina Fitzsimons

Yoga Fitness Instructor

Gina is a Registered Nurse and Owner of Serenity G Yoga, LLC, who is certified RYT with Yoga Alliance followed by certifications & training in Ayurvedic Nutritional Coaching*Children’s Yoga/ Special needs*Trauma-Informed*Yin and Restorative Yoga for Athletic*Pilates

Gina’s experience has been studying yoga’s beneficial, peaceful meditation through a dance of asanas that keep her grounded with the energy of Ashtanga vinyasa flows. Her flow radiates light through the heart of a curious beginner or a seasoned yogi with breathing and letting go of all that binds us! Teaching the energy and power of Yoga fused with Pilates creates her classes for all levels and ages! Her intention is for you to leave class feeling relaxed, and more flexible with strength from the inside out.

Gina Fitzsimons

Yoga Fitness Instructor

Gina is a Registered Nurse and Owner of Serenity G Yoga, LLC, who is certified RYT with Yoga Alliance followed by certifications & training in Ayurvedic Nutritional Coaching*Children’s Yoga/ Special needs*Trauma-Informed*Yin and Restorative Yoga for Athletic*Pilates

Gina’s experience has been studying yoga’s beneficial, peaceful meditation through a dance of asanas that keep her grounded with the energy of Ashtanga vinyasa flows. Her flow radiates light through the heart of a curious beginner or a seasoned yogi with breathing and letting go of all that binds us! Teaching the energy and power of Yoga fused with Pilates creates her classes for all levels and ages! Her intention is for you to leave class feeling relaxed, and more flexible with strength from the inside out.

Matt Silver

PERSONAL TRAINER

Matt is a certified personal trainer with over 12 years of experience in the fitness industry. He is also a fitness supplement expert with over six years of experience. With a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Manhattan College, Matt is a highly qualified and knowledgeable professional in his field.

Matt is passionate about the fitness and supplement industry and enjoys leading his clients toward a healthier lifestyle. His philosophy as a trainer is about balance, focusing on muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and body composition. He believes in instilling a love for learning to work out safely and correctly, and his clients appreciate his attention to detail and personalized approach.

In addition to his work as a personal trainer, Matt has a range of interests in the health and fitness space, including strength and conditioning, weight training, and small group training. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Sports & Fitness Association and is TRX certified. He is also certified in CPR and First Aid, ensuring he can provide his clients with the safest and most effective training experience.

Matt enjoys working out and working on his own health goals in his free time. He believes in leading by example and is committed to a healthy and active lifestyle. His passion for fitness, expertise, and qualifications make him an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their health and wellness.

Matt Silver

PERSONAL TRAINER

Matt is a certified personal trainer with over 12 years of experience in the fitness industry. He is also a fitness supplement expert with over six years of experience. With a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Manhattan College, Matt is a highly qualified and knowledgeable professional in his field.

Matt is passionate about the fitness and supplement industry and enjoys leading his clients toward a healthier lifestyle. His philosophy as a trainer is about balance, focusing on muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and body composition. He believes in instilling a love for learning to work out safely and correctly, and his clients appreciate his attention to detail and personalized approach.

In addition to his work as a personal trainer, Matt has a range of interests in the health and fitness space, including strength and conditioning, weight training, and small group training. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Sports & Fitness Association and is TRX certified. He is also certified in CPR and First Aid, ensuring he can provide his clients with the safest and most effective training experience.

Matt enjoys working out and working on his own health goals in his free time. He believes in leading by example and is committed to a healthy and active lifestyle. His passion for fitness, expertise, and qualifications make him an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their health and wellness.

Lisa Levine

Yoga Fitness Instructor

Lisa Levine is a dedicated professional working with children of all ages for over 20 years. After completing her Master’s degree in Special Education, she focused her career on assisting children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum. Through her work, she recognized the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness in supporting children’s well-being.

Motivated by her experience with special needs students, Lisa delved into the practice of yoga and mindfulness, discovering their tremendous positive impact on children. In 2018, she became a certified yoga instructor specializing in children’s yoga. Inspired by her passion for sharing these tools, she founded her practice called Childs Pose Yoga for Kids in 2019.

Lisa’s yoga journey began 15 years ago in New York City, where she experienced the profound effects of the practice on her own life. In her classes, she emphasizes evidence-based strategies tailored to each child’s level. As a result, she creates a safe, enjoyable, and nurturing environment where children can explore and engage in yoga postures (asana, meditation, and breathwork) in a manner suitable for their age.

Lisa firmly believes that exposure to these tools is like planting a seed in a child’s life. She understands that different aspects of yoga may resonate with each child at other times and that these seeds will flourish when the time is right.

She resides in Pleasantville, NY, with her husband, two boys, and their dog. She is dedicated to making yoga and mindfulness accessible to children, supporting their growth, and fostering a sense of well-being.

Lisa Levine

Yoga Fitness Instructor

Lisa Levine is a dedicated professional working with children of all ages for over 20 years. After completing her Master’s degree in Special Education, she focused her career on assisting children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum. Through her work, she recognized the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness in supporting children’s well-being.

Motivated by her experience with special needs students, Lisa delved into the practice of yoga and mindfulness, discovering their tremendous positive impact on children. In 2018, she became a certified yoga instructor specializing in children’s yoga. Inspired by her passion for sharing these tools, she founded her practice called Childs Pose Yoga for Kids in 2019.

Lisa’s yoga journey began 15 years ago in New York City, where she experienced the profound effects of the practice on her own life. In her classes, she emphasizes evidence-based strategies tailored to each child’s level. As a result, she creates a safe, enjoyable, and nurturing environment where children can explore and engage in yoga postures (asana, meditation, and breathwork) in a manner suitable for their age.

Lisa firmly believes that exposure to these tools is like planting a seed in a child’s life. She understands that different aspects of yoga may resonate with each child at other times and that these seeds will flourish when the time is right.

She resides in Pleasantville, NY, with her husband, two boys, and their dog. She is dedicated to making yoga and mindfulness accessible to children, supporting their growth, and fostering a sense of well-being.

Lisa Plattner

FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Lisa is a highly experienced group fitness instructor with over 25 years of teaching. With a passion for helping people achieve their fitness goals, Lisa has dedicated her career to motivating and inspiring participants to reach their full potential.

Lisa believes in the power of group fitness to create a supportive and motivating environment that encourages people to push past their limits and achieve their goals.

One of Lisa’s core beliefs is that everyone has the power to create positive change in their lives. She reflects this in her motto, “Life has no remote, so get up and make the change,” which encourages people to take action and make the most out of every opportunity.

As a fitness instructor, Lisa is committed to helping her participants improve their physical fitness, but they also understand the importance of mental and emotional well-being. She strives to create a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.

Over the years, Lisa has helped countless individuals achieve their fitness goals and improve their overall quality of life. Her dedication and passion for her work are evident in every class they teach, and she is always looking for new ways to inspire and motivate participants.

Lisa Plattner

FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Lisa is a highly experienced group fitness instructor with over 25 years of teaching. With a passion for helping people achieve their fitness goals, Lisa has dedicated her career to motivating and inspiring participants to reach their full potential.

Lisa believes in the power of group fitness to create a supportive and motivating environment that encourages people to push past their limits and achieve their goals.

One of Lisa’s core beliefs is that everyone has the power to create positive change in their lives. She reflects this in her motto, “Life has no remote, so get up and make the change,” which encourages people to take action and make the most out of every opportunity.

As a fitness instructor, Lisa is committed to helping her participants improve their physical fitness, but they also understand the importance of mental and emotional well-being. She strives to create a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.

Over the years, Lisa has helped countless individuals achieve their fitness goals and improve their overall quality of life. Her dedication and passion for her work are evident in every class they teach, and she is always looking for new ways to inspire and motivate participants.