In an effort to provide the most comprehensive coverage that we can at Axcess Baseball, we will be covering league’s and tournaments across the island through out the 2018 season. One of our newest leagues that we will be covering is East Coast Tournaments. Their founder, Rich Gentile, is excited about their growth since its inception in 2015. He spoke with Vinny Messana and here’s what he had to say.
What is your background with baseball? Who are some players you admired in your youth?
I played youth baseball my entire life and all through high school. I coached travel baseball for 10 years but stepped away from coaching to concentrate on East Coast Tournaments. I am a lifelong Yankee fan and admired Thurman Munson, who today is still my all-time favorite Yankee.
What was the motivation for starting your company?
East Coast Tournaments was created because we felt there was a need on Long Island for more choices where travel teams can play baseball. We also wanted to provide the best experience for players and coaches that participate in our tournaments and leagues. We have heard many compliments over the years from coaches as well as parents and are continuing to strive to put the best product out there.
How much has it grown?
Since East Coast Tournaments was formed in the fall of 2015, we have nearly doubled our registrations each year since our inception. With our huge registration for 2018 so far, we fully expect another big year in 2018.
What would you like to change about the amateur baseball scene?
I would like to see an opportunity for players to enjoy competitive baseball at more of a reasonable cost and continue to grow at the same time.
Do you feel the Long Island baseball product has improved in recent years?
Definitely. The reason for that is teams now basically play baseball here on the island 10 months per year. They start their training in January and go into their spring, summer and fall seasons which end in October.
What can people expect when they come to an event hosted by East Coast Tournaments?
Beautiful fields, great competition, professionally trained and certified umpires and very-well run tournaments and leagues.
