Announcing The Battle Creek Battle Jacks Jr. Academy %

The Battle Jacks Academy is officially here, and it’s built with one goal in mind: to grow the game by helpingyoung athletes learn, train, and compete the right way.

This new year-round baseball and softball academy, set to open in November, brings together professional instruction, character development, and a love for the game under one roof. From 8U through college, players across Greater Calhoun County can now experience training that feels both elite and approachable, right here in Battle Creek at 1320 E. Columbia Ave.

Be Humble! Be Accomplished! Be Great!

At the Academy, every drill, rep, and lesson connects back to something bigger. We call it Be Humble! Be Accomplished! Be Great!- a mindset that teaches discipline, teamwork, and accountability both on and off the field.

Our philosophy is simple: great players are built from great people. And when athletes learn to prepare, lead, and compete with heart, the results follow naturally.

“This isn’t just about baseball,” said David Walsh, the Battle Jacks’ Head of Baseball Strategy and Academy partner. “It’s about helping young people develop confidence and character that will stay with them for life.”

Meet the Team Behind the Vision

The Battle Jacks Academy is a partnership between the Battle Creek Battle Jacks, Velocity Sports (led by Stephanie and Kevin Hedrington of Battle Buddy Mobility), and Dave Walsh, Director of Baseball at Sluggers Academy in Massachusetts.

Together, we’re creating an environment built on expertise, structure, and genuine care for every athlete who walks through our doors.

“The mission of the Battle Jacks Academy aligns perfectly with what we believe in,” said Stephanie Hedrington of Velocity Sports. “It’s about community, growth, and giving kids a place to belong.”

Our First Event: Free Community Clinic

With a November launch, we’re kicking off the Academy with a free community clinic on Saturday, November 15, featuring Battle Jacks’ new Field Manager Chris Fletcher, Pitching Coach Tim Brown, and Dave Walsh.

This will be an interactive, fun session for players of all skill levels in softball and baseball — a hands-on introduction to the teaching style and culture of the Academy.

Space is limited, so reserve your spot now and register your player.

Our Home Base

The Academy’s facility at 1320 E. Columbia Ave. is where it all comes together; more than 10,000 square feet of turf space with batting cages, pitching lanes, strength & conditioning equipment, and technology in teaching areas for instruction.

Later this fall, it’s also where the Battle Jacks’ offseason front office will operate, keeping our focus on year-round engagement and growth; for fans, players, and families alike.

“This space is more than just a building,” said General Manager Sam Connell. “It’s a symbol of what we’re trying to build, something lasting for Battle Creek.”

The Battle Jacks Academy is more than a program- it’s a promise. A promise to invest in our youth, to strengthen our community, and to raise the next generation of Battle Jacks.

Join us. Learn with us. Be Humble! Be Accomplished! Be Great!