TEAM OVERVIEW
Firecrackers OH – 13U Jones has delivered a standout season with a 44-8 tournament record, claiming championship titles at the Boneyard Bash, Ghouls and Girls Halloween Showdown, Thaw Your Bats, Madison Select Classic, and Bellefontaine Bomber. The team also earned a runner-up finish at the Battle for the Belt and has qualified for the prestigious USSSA National Championship in Destin, Florida. Committed to facing top-tier competition, the team continues to grow through discipline, preparation, and a desire to play the game the right way.
COACHING STAFF
Phil Jones - Head Coach
With 8 years of coaching experience and in his third season leading a travel team, Coach Jones emphasizes mental toughness, softball IQ, and team culture.
His calm, focused leadership fosters personal growth, accountability, and selfless play.
Doug Gray - Associate Head Coach
Now in his fourth season of travel softball, Coach Gray brings five years of coaching experience, specializing in pitching and defensive strategy.
His structured and technical approach enhances in-game execution and consistency.
Michael Marshack - Assistant Coach
In his second season with the team, Coach Marshack focuses on individual development and communication, using mentorship and positive reinforcement to support each athlete's growth.
Chad Howard - Assistant Coach
Also entering year two with the team, Coach Howard leads instruction in baserunning and catching, emphasizing efficiency, effort, and situational awareness.
Kyle Rhoad - Assistant Coach
A former Division I player at Eastern Michigan and minor leaguer with the Texas Rangers, Coach Rhoad brings elite-level insight.
He focuses on hitting, baserunning, and outfield play, drawing from four years of coaching experience and a professional playing background.
Dani Ramos - Assistant Coach
A former First Team All-MAC standout at Kent State University, Coach Ramos brings over six years of coaching experience.
As a certified hitting instructor and former head coach at Worthington Christian and the Ohio All-Americans, she combines high-level playing experience with a proven ability to build confidence and elevate performance at the plate.
TRAINING STRUCTURE
Phil and his staff plan to compete at the B Level in 2025/26. They emphasize hard work, accountability, and player development, supported by a structured year-round training schedule that adapts to school and multi-sport commitments. Firecrackers OH 13U Team trains and plays year-round:
- • Fall season is comprised of 2 team practices focused on fielding/pitching and hitting, and 3 at-home workouts per week, along with 3 scheduled tournaments plus friendlies/league play totaling 20-25 games.
- • Winter season with weekly practices focused on fundamentals and technique, and 1-2 indoor tournaments, with a break from mid-December through early January, and a school ball break in mid/late February.
- • Spring/Summer Season beginning in May includes 2 practices per week plus at-home training, with 9-10 tournaments including 2 out of state events in Michigan and Tennessee.
PROGRAM VISION AND PHILOSOPHY
The Firecrackers OH - 13U Jones coaching staff is committed to building well-rounded athletes through hard work, accountability, and a team-first mentality. With a focus on skill development, game intelligence, and a strong family culture, the program prepares players to compete at a high level—on and off the field.