Coach Profile: Zack Boese

Coach Zack Boese has been coaching for the last four years for the Muskoka Hornets, Muskoka Outlaws Baseball Academy, and Barrie 18U HPP. During his first two years with the Hornets, he was awarded Coach of the Year. Zack boasts a diverse playing background, having spent seven years with the Muskoka Hornets and two years in Alberta with the Badlands Badgers Baseball Academy. Throughout his playing career, Zack played every defensive position with the exception of pitching, specializing primarily in middle infield. His wide-ranging experience in various defensive roles equips him to teach all aspects of defense comprehensively. Zack is passionate about working with athletes in Muskoka and is excited to continue contributing to their development and success.

Coach Profile: Dave Mahaffey

Dave Mahaffey brings over two decades of playing experience and more than fifteen years of coaching expertise to the team. A Level 4 umpire with Softball Canada, Dave has officiated at the U21/U23 Canadian Women’s Fast Pitch Championship, bringing a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to the field. His contributions extend beyond the diamond as a member of the Softball Ontario Coaching Committee and as a certified Softball Ontario Coaching instructor. Additionally, Dave is a certified Can Pitch pitching instructor, dedicated to developing exceptional pitching talents. Dave’s coaching achievements are remarkable, having led the Georgian Bay Rattlers U15 team to victory as OASA Provincial Champions in 2011 in Elmira. He continued his success with the Barrie Storm U17 team, guiding them to PWSA Provincial Championships in 2013 in Cobourg, 2014 in St. Catherines, and most recently, 2023 in Windsor. His extensive experience and strategic insight make Dave an invaluable asset to the coaching staff, where he continues to inspire and cultivate the next generation of softball players.

Coach Profile: Andrew Hall

Andrew Hall, Coach and Director of Player Development for the Muskoka Hornets, grew up with a deep passion for baseball. He played high-level high school and summer ball before continuing his career as a pitcher at Wingate University in North Carolina for two years. Over the past decade, Andrew has been actively involved with the Muskoka Hornets in various coaching and leadership roles. He is currently the head coach for the 14U team after serving as the assistant coach for the 13U team last season. In addition to coaching, Andrew serves as the Director of Player Development on the Muskoka Hornets Board of Directors, helping shape the program’s future. As a Senior Instructor, he plays a key role in player development through the organization’s summer, elite, and March Break camps. With extensive playing and coaching experience, Andrew is committed to helping athletes develop strong fundamentals, improve their skills, and grow their love for the game.

Coach Profile: Hailey Everett

Coach Hailey Everett’s commitment to softball began in her hometown of Bracebridge. At the age of 9, Hailey was already making a mark in the Bracebridge Minor Ball League. Her dedication and skill were evident as she played for the Bandits, achieving an impressive second place in provincials with an all-boys team. This early achievement marked the commencement of Hailey’s distinguished softball career. Hailey’s transition to representative softball saw her join the Barrie Storm Girls Softball team, where she honed her skills for two years. Her journey then led her to the Aurora Diggers, a team where her talents truly excelled. With the Diggers, Hailey celebrated significant victories, including winning the provincial qualifiers, securing second place in provincials, and attaining third place in all of Canada. These accomplishments established Hailey as a formidable player in the field of softball. Her passion for the sport continued into college, where she excelled as a pitcher in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) for Sheridan. Her college years were pivotal, not only for her playing career but also for her development as a coach. With four years of coaching experience, Hailey has contributed her expertise to various teams, including Barrie, Port Perry, Huntsville Hornets, and several local house league teams. Her coaching philosophy is based on the belief that softball is more than just a game; it serves as a medium to impart life lessons and the value of hard work to young athletes. Hailey’s time in college equipped her with the knowledge to maintain peak physical condition and develop new skills, which she diligently passes down to her players. Coach Hailey Everett’s journey through softball stands as a testament to her dedication, skill, and the impactful life lessons she imparts through the sport. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with hard work and passion, one can achieve great heights both on and off the field.

Coach Profile: Cody Thomas

Coach Cody Thomas, is currently playing for the 22U AAA Newmarket Hawks and was part of the team that won the national championship two years ago. Since the age of 15, Cody have played at the highest level of baseball in Ontario. With five years of experience as a hitting and catching coach, he have worked with teams from Barrie, Bradford, and Muskoka. During his coaching career, he has had the privilege of winning two provincial championships. In addition to his catching expertise, Cody brings a wealth of knowledge in other areas of the game, including fitness and stretching to keep our athletes in excellent shape and avoiding injury.

Coach Profile: Tyler Fields

Coach Tyler Fields has been an active coach in the Muskoka Hornets baseball
organization since 2020. Starting as the 9U Assistant Coach for the shortened 2020 season, Tyler advanced to become the 9U Head Coach for both 2021 and 2022. Moving up to the 11U level, Tyler began as Assistant Coach in 2023 and has taken on the role of Head Coach for 2024. For the upcoming 13U season in 2025, Tyler will serve as an Assistant Coach. Coach Tyler’s experience includes developing players pitching, hitting, and effectiveness as infielders and outfielders. He is committed to nurturing young talent, emphasizing sportsmanship, respect, and hard work.

Coach Profile: Cooper Doucette

Coach Cooper Doucette brings eight years competitive baseball. Currently, Cooper is a member of the Barrie Baycats, where he continues to hone his skills and deepen his understanding of the game. Cooper’s focus areas include pitching and hitting, where he can impart valuable techniques and insights gained from his playing career. Having competed against diverse types of competition, Cooper has developed a comprehensive knowledge of the game and is eager to share it with aspiring players.

Coach Profile: Chris Clarke

Chris has been involved in sports his entire life, playing hockey at a competitive level before starting his baseball journey in a men’s fastball league 10 years ago. Chris has extensive experience working with youth in various settings, understanding the importance of keeping younger athletes engaged and committed to achieving their goals. Chris has coached in the Muskoka Hornets program for years and has also coached minor hockey. This season Chris is the Head Coach for the Barrie Baycats 13U A team. His passion for sports development will be integral to his role at Tj’s, where he will contribute to the clinics and coaching programs alongside the dedicated coaching staff.

Coach Profile: Mitchell Sills

I have been helping baseball in my hometown of Quinte for a couple of years, helping with team practices, winter workouts, and camps. Currently a member of the Muskoka Outlaws baseball academy in Bracebridge, as well as playing the last 2 summers in the Premier Baseball League of Ontario with the Kingston Ponies. Played infield as well as pitching throughout my time in baseball, winning the 2023 Eastern Ontario Player and Pitcher of the year, as well as the 2023 Ontario Pitcher of the year. I have had a wide array of coaches that have helped me improve my baseball abilities, and I hope to use these abilities to help baseball players as well. I am excited to be helping baseball in Muskoka and contributing to the future successes of baseball players.