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behind the spikes

Meet Your Coaches

At Golden Spikes Baseball Academy, we believe that great coaching doesn’t just teach the game—it shapes the athlete. Our coaching staff is made up of seasoned professionals who have competed and coached at the highest levels of baseball. But more importantly, they are mentors committed to helping young athletes develop their skills, mindset, and confidence, both on and off the field. This is a place for players who are serious about their growth and ready to be challenged in a supportive, disciplined environment.

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Alex Creel

Co-Owner, Pitching Instructor, Coach

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Bret Hemphill 1

Bret Hemphill

Co-Owner, Catching Instructor, Hitting Instructor, Coach

Bret Hemphill, co-founder of Golden Spikes Baseball Academy, brings a rare blend of Major League experience and elite coaching insight to every athlete he trains. A former switch-hitting catcher for the Anaheim Angels, Bret is one of the few players in MLB history to record hits from both sides of the plate in his first two at-bats. With over seven years in professional baseball and standout seasons at Cal State Fullerton, his resume includes College World Series appearances, multiple championships, and recognition as the Angels’ Best Defensive Catcher by Baseball America. Today, Bret leads Golden Spikes’ catching and hitting programs, developing players with a focus on both physical performance and mental sharpness—because great baseball starts with complete player development.

Greg Morris

Greg Morris

Coach

Greg Morris, a former pro infielder in the Angels organization, brings over a decade of experience as both a player and coach to Golden Spikes Baseball Academy. Drafted in the 5th round after standout seasons at Sac City and UC Davis, Greg played five years of Minor League ball, known for his powerful bat and steady glove. Today, he channels that experience into developing hitters and infielders with a sharp focus on fundamentals, game IQ, and mental toughness—making him a trusted mentor for serious ballplayers ready to grow.

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Jake Mandrik

Pitching Instructor, Coach
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Kea Vierra

Pitching Instructor, Coach

Spikes In Action

Watch clips from actual clinics, training, and lessons with our coaches.

More Than a Team

Join The Spikes Family

Start your Golden Spikes journey here. Whether you're aiming for a spot on one of our tournament teams or looking for clinics, small group training, or 1-on-1 lessons, our player request form is the first step. Submit your info, and we’ll connect your athlete with the right coach and opportunities based on their age, experience, and goals.

testimonials

Behind Every Spike Is a Story

From little league leaps to big league dreams, see what real families have to say about their journey with us.

Alex’s program has developed my son into one of our leagues top strikes thrower at 10 years old. In just one Rocket Arm Session he has increased velocity, accuracy, and consistency. Thanks Coach Alex!

Mike A.

K3 Pitching

Love the Coaches and the teams. Great instruction at a high level

Grant G.

Yelp

Excellent baseball academy where not just the physical aspects of baseball are taught but the mental aspect as well.

Brian Cuthill

Google