Driven by a passion for both education and well-being, Alycia McClure is a proud graduate of Coastal Carolina University, holding a degree in Elementary Education. Her commitment to empowering others extends beyond the classroom, evidenced by her comprehensive certifications in personal training, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and yoga. Outside of her professional pursuits, Alycia and her husband Phils hearts belong to cheering on their three boys at their baseball games, creating cherished memories on Disney adventures, and finding serenity on sun-kissed beach days.

With a strong academic foundation built upon dual Master's degrees in Sports Leadership/Management and Communication from Liberty University, Phil McClure brings a wealth of impactful experience from his years coaching collegiate baseball. Notably, his guidance has led to multiple players being selected in the MLB draft, and he has also paved the way for numerous others to compete professionally in independent leagues. Eager to continue fostering talent, Phil is now committed to working with youth, where he aims to empower and equip them with the skills and mindset needed to realize their full potential and achieve their aspirations on and off the field.

Julius Paden II, known in the sports community as “Coach J”, born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida attended Ribault Senior High School, as a 3-sport athlete playing baseball, football, and basketball. After high school he continued his studies at Bethune Cookman University, obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with emphasis in Management, and is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.. After graduation Julius and his wife moved to Palm Coast, where he started chasing his passion coaching youth sports in Flagler County. With over 10 years of involvement in the community, Julius has had the opportunity to be the head coach, or assistant coach on multiple championship teams in baseball, football, and basketball, in our local community leagues, and his most proudest moments come from watching the youth he have had the opportunity to coach, continue to achieve their goals in their academic studies, and athletics for the high school teams. Julius number 1 goal is to create an atmosphere that allow our student-athletes to face difficult times with confidence to believe in themselves, that they can achieve any goals they set, through hard-work, and commitment to learning.

Coach Ryan Bennett brings five years and ten seasons of dedicated experience to little league coaching. Focusing intently on the fundamental learning and development of each player, Coach Bennett prioritizes long-term growth over immediate wins. He finds great satisfaction in investing his time in young athletes who demonstrate a strong dedication to baseball or softball and are committed to putting forth their best effort to improve. His primary coaching strengths lie in the areas of batting, base-running, and speed development.

With over 4 years of coaching experience, John Kelly brings not only knowledge of the game but a passion that has been a part of his life since he was a young child playing little league. John takes great pride in not only seeing his players succeed during the game, but being able to take that success and translate it away from the diamond. He was a leader in children’s ministry for over 4 years and is committed to the mental and emotional growth of today’s youth. 

Originally from Ohio, Joe Wendt brings a lifelong commitment to youth sports and community development. A multi-sport athlete through high school, Joe competed in football, wrestling, baseball, and basketball before relocating to Palm Coast, Florida 14 years ago with his wife Julie. Together, they’re raising two children, Julian and Joy, who are active in local athletics.

Joe pursued business studies with a focus on management and strategy, later channeling that knowledge into a successful career as a Product Manager. In his professional life, he leads cross-functional teams and manages full-cycle product launches—skills he now applies to support operational growth and fundraising efforts for Coastal Palms Sports.

Joe’s journey into youth sports leadership began with a desire to give back. His favorite part of coaching and program development is watching young athletes apply the lessons they learn—discipline, teamwork, perseverance—not only on the field, but in life. His mission is to help build a foundation where kids develop the confidence to face challenges, set goals, and believe in their own potential—on and off the diamond.

Originally from Illinois, Ayla grew up as a dedicated multi-sport athlete with a lifelong passion for competition and teamwork. After relocating to Florida, she embraced her role as a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom, raising her two boys alongside her husband, Russell. Nothing brings her more joy than watching her children develop their love for the game, push themselves to grow, and become not only better athletes but better people. When they’re not at practices or games, you can usually find the family soaking up the sun at the beach or making magical memories at Disney.

Coming Soon

Ray Cruz is a proud former three-sport athlete and dedicated community leader whose passion for sports and service has left a lasting impact both on and off the field. A standout in Baseball, Cross Country, and Wrestling, Ray earned varsity letters in all three sports during his high school career. 

On the wrestling mat, Ray excelled as a County and Vocational Champion, playing a key role in leading his team to two County Championships, a District Championship, and a runner-up finish at Regionals. His talent and drive carried over to the baseball diamond, where he went on to play one season with the New Jersey Outlaws of the NJ Amateur Baseball League following graduation.

In 2003, Ray took his commitment to a higher level by enlisting in the United States Navy. Over the past 22 years, he has proudly served his country with honor and distinction.

Beyond his military service, Ray has remained deeply connected to youth sports. He has coached in multiple organizations where his leadership and mentorship have shaped the lives of countless young athletes. Ray Cruz embodies the values of discipline, dedication, and service. Whether in uniform or on the field, he continues to lead by example and inspire those around him.

Justin Jerriel brings a deep and multifaceted commitment to our community's softball programs, rooted in years of hands-on experience and a strong dedication to service.

With many years dedicated to coaching softball in multiple local little leagues, Justin has worked with a diverse range of age levels, fostering skill development and a love for the game in young athletes. His coaching expertise extends to the competitive arena, having also spent time as a travel ball coach. This varied experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of the needs and challenges across different levels of youth softball.

Beyond the diamond, Justin is a dedicated servant to his state and country, currently holding 18 years of time in service with the Florida National Guard. This background instills in him a valuable sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment that will directly benefit his role on the board.

When not volunteering his time, Justin enjoys his hobbies of fishing, softball, and spending time with his family. He is excited to embark on this new adventure and is committed to ensuring the continued success and growth of our softball program.

Bringing a powerful blend of strategic business development and deep community roots, Brian Jordan serves as the Business Development Specialist for our sports program. A seasoned entrepreneur and licensed Florida Realtor, Brian Jordan possesses a proven track record in identifying opportunities, forging partnerships, and driving growth. His foundation in strategic communication comes from a Bachelor's degree in PR and Advertising from Bethune-Cookman University. Currently, he leverages his expertise as a Business Development Consultant for a prominent healthcare group, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex industries and deliver results.  Raised in Tampa and studied in Volusia County Florida , Brian Jordan is intrinsically connected to our community. His professional drive is amplified by a personal passion: supporting youth development. Baseball, a lifelong favorite, serves as a powerful vehicle for this commitment. Brian Jordan is dedicated to applying his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic acumen to expand our program's reach, resources, and positive impact on the young athletes we serve

Coming Soon

As a dedicated board member and Safety Coordinator for Coastal Palms Sports, Russell Shugart is committed to creating a positive, supportive, and safe environment where players can grow both on and off the field. With a strong focus on player development and personal growth, Russell believes that success in baseball begins with discipline, teamwork, and character. His goal is to help every athlete reach their potential while ensuring their well-being remains a top priority.

Josh proudly serves as the Treasurer of Coastal Palms Sports, bringing more than a decade of business leadership in the IT industry. In 2014, he founded Your PC Magician, a company dedicated to providing reliable IT support and technology services to small businesses and non-profit organizations throughout Central Virginia.

Driven by a passion for empowering organizations through technology, Josh built his business around one core goal, making enterprise-level IT solutions accessible and affordable for smaller organizations. He hopes to leverage this experience to further the mission of Coastal Palms Sports, helping ensure the organization remains financially strong and grows as an effective, trusted partner in the community.

Coming Soon