One of the up-and-coming programs on Long Island over the past couple years is the Long Island Empire. Established 4 years ago by Anthony Rinaldi with one team, they not only grew to 13 teams but made an impact winning a number of championships this year.
Heres’ a quick rundown of your championships and runner-up finishes…
16u Blue Chip Prospect Summer Series Champs
17u BOS Labor Day Champs
Boys of Summer College Crossover Champ
13u Boys of Summer Semi Finalists
13u Blue Chip Summer Series Semi Finals
13u BOS Labor Day Finalist
15u Summer Sendoff PA Finalist
16u Boys of Summer Finalist
16u Blue Chip Father’s Day Finalist
17u Prospect Select Northeast Semi Finalists
17u Axcess World Series Finalist
9u and 12u Hot Stove Championship
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Can you tell our audience about your background with the game of baseball?
My baseball background is rooted in a lifelong passion for the game. I attended Island Trees HS, where I had the privilege of playing under the guidance of two exceptional coaches, Nick Grande and Joe D’Auria. Their expertise and mentorship significantly influenced my development as a player and later as a coach. It’s a testament to our strong relationship that they are now coaching within my organization, a connection we’ve maintained since my playing days.
I continued my playing career at LIU Post where I played for four years and gained invaluable experience at the collegiate level. After college, I got signed twice to play independent ball but 2 elbow surgeries ended my professional career after college. After that, I transitioned into coaching and have been actively involved in travel baseball since 2010. I am now entering my eighth year as one of the varsity coaches at Island Trees HS, where I work alongside Mike Valiando. Mike is not only an incredible baseball mind but also one of my closest friends, which makes the coaching experience even more rewarding.
What was your motivation for starting the program?
Throughout my career, I’ve combined my playing and coaching experience with a dedication to fostering player development and a deep appreciation for the game. My goal is to inspire the next generation of players to excel both on and off the field.
When establishing the Empire, my primary objective was to focus on player development, provide comprehensive coaching and training and cultivate a family-oriented atmosphere for athletes of all ages. I aimed to impact to young players that baseball transcends being merely a sport; it serves as a conduit for learning invaluable life lessons, such as teamwork, discipline and perseverance, which is applicable both on and off the field.
This philosophy is deeply influenced by my father and esteemed mentors, Coach Grande and Coach D’Auria, whose guidance has been instrumental in shaping my approach to coaching and player development.
By emphasizing these core values, I strive to create an environment where players not only enhance their athletic skills but also develop character traits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
How many college commits have you had over the years?
Since starting Long Island Empire four years ago, I have successfully guided approximately 45 to 50 athletes toward collegiate baseball opportunity across various levels, including Junior College (JUCO), Division I, Division II and Division III. This achievement underscores our organization’s commitment to player development and the effectiveness of our comprehensive training programs. Our dedication to fostering talent and facilitating recruitment has been instrumental in these successes.
How has the program grown over the years? Are you pleased with the growth?
The organization has experienced significant growth, expanding from a single team in the first year to 13 teams by the fourth year. This progression reflects the dedication and hard work of our coaches, as well as the commitment of our players and their families. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in our success and is deeply appreciated.
You guys had a great season in 2024, what leagues and tournaments did you win?
Our teams have participated in various leagues and tournaments, showcasing their talents and dedication to the sport. We are proud of our achievements and remain committed to providing a supportive and growth-oriented environment for all our athletes.
What are your goals for 2025?
As we approach the 2025 season, our primary objectives for Long Island Empire are to enhance our brand identity, prioritize player development and achieve success in high-level competitions. We are committed to providing top-tier training and fostering a family-oriented atmosphere for athletes of all ages. Our goal is to ensure that our players not only excel on the field but also develop skills that will benefit them in all aspects of life.
How important is it to you to have the right coaches in the organization?
As the owner of Long Island Empire, I recognize that assembling a team of highly qualified coaches is crucial to our organization’s success. Our coaching staff comprises individuals with extensive experience at the high school, collegiate and professional levels. Many have had the privilege of coaching alongside me at the high school level, further enhancing our collaborative approach. By maintain a coaching staff with such a high caliber of experience and commitment, we ensure that our athletes receive top-tier guidance, both on and off the field.