Coaches


Jose Villafana

Jose played three years in the St. Louis Cardinals Organization. Coach Villafana's coaching philosophy centers on teaching young athletes proper strength and conditioning routines, proper technique and mechanics, and pitching form. He is devoted to preventing arm injuries in our young players. He challenges these boys by playing the best teams he can find, oftentimes playing up a division. He expects the best from his players, and playing multiple positions encourages teamwork and positive attitudes in the boys.



Jason LaRue


Jason LaRue is a Smithson Valley High School graduate. After high school he went to Northeast Texas Community college in Mt. Pleasant, Texas followed by Dallas Baptist.  After being selected in the 5th round of the 1995 Major League Baseball Draft out of Dallas Baptist University, LaRue debuted with Cincinnati on June 15, 1999 and became Cincinnati's starting catcher in 2001. 2005 was his best overall season with 14 HR, 60 RBI and .260 batting average.
LaRue with the Cincinnati Reds until 2006 he then played one year with Kansas City Royals. The last three years of his career were with the St. Louis Cardinals. LaRue announced his retirement from Major League Baseball in 2010.


LaRue was known throughout his career to be a defensive specialist, in 2001 he led the major leagues with a 61% Caught stealing percentage, and has a career 39%. LaRue is now enjoying his passion for the outdoors. He is a full time deer breeder.