HEAD COACH

 Kohl Kelly has built a coaching career centered on specialized player development and high-level competitive experience. Currently in his third year at Verrado High School, where he has served as Assistant Head Coach and Catching Coach for a varsity program with a State Playoff appearance, Kohl has also shaped athletes through the Angels Amateur Scout Team (2 years) and as the Head Frosh/Soph Coach at Orange High School (2 years).

A veteran of the game with 17 years of competitive experience, Kohl competed at the collegiate level for Westwood College before advancing to the Rookie Ball Scout League and playing two years of international professional baseball with the Bonn Capitals. His firsthand knowledge of the game's highest levels informs a philosophy that prioritizes developing the person as much as the player. For Kohl, coaching is a commitment to fostering resilience and respect, ensuring that every athlete is equipped to overcome adversity and succeed both on and off the field.

Zach Thompson has dedicated his career to the fundamental development of athletes and the cultivation of a disciplined team culture. Currently serving the Verrado High School baseball program with experience across high school, youth, and club levels, Zach specializes in player mechanics, mental preparation, and elevating overall baseball IQ.

A former four-year varsity player and left-handed specialist, Zach continued his competitive career on an Army “All-Base Team” while serving his country. As a disabled Army veteran, he integrates military principles of accountability and clear communication into his leadership style, teaching players to "control what you can control" through consistent attitude and effort.

For Zach, coaching is a commitment to shaping young men into resilient, responsible members of society. A husband and father, he views baseball as a tool for teaching life lessons, where the ultimate goal is building character that extends far beyond the field.

Alberto "Beto" Flores has built his coaching career on a lifelong love for the game. A former standout at Birmingham High School, Beto earned All-Conference and Area Code Team honors before pitching at the Division 1 level for California State University Northridge. During his time at Northridge, he had the privilege of playing under National Coach of the Year Mike Batesole, whose mentorship helped shape Beto’s focus on the importance of integrity and mental toughness.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology,  Beto’s approach is deeply rooted in sports science, mechanics, and proper recovery. In 2024, he founded the nonprofit In the Zone Athletics AZ, where he oversees player development across several valley serving athletes from youth through the high school level.

Baseball is a family passion shared with his three sons. He views the game as a vital tool for growth, focusing his energy on preparing young athletes for the next level by instilling a foundation of discipline and resilience both on and off the field.

Coach Albeary grew up on a farm near Calgary, Alberta, Canada, where he played multiple sports before excelling in hockey. He played college hockey at the University of Calgary, winning a Canadian National Championship, and was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks. After injuries shifted his path, he finished his college career at BYU, where he also helped coach lacrosse. Following graduation, he began a 30-year teaching and coaching career at Palm Desert High School in Southern California, leading programs in baseball, football, and golf, and mentoring athletes who went on to play professionally.

Now living in Goodyear, Tim brings decades of experience to the ITZ Matadors. He is passionate about developing young athletes not only in their skills but also in their character, work ethic, and leadership—helping them succeed both on and off the field.

Coach Barrientos serves on the baseball staff at Verrado High School and has been a Campus Safety Monitor since February 2023. Originally from California, he brings a disciplined, service-driven mindset shaped by his retirement from the United States military. His background and daily presence on campus allow him to build strong relationships with student-athletes while reinforcing expectations both on and off the field.

Coach Barrientos played three years of high school baseball as a right fielder and later competed for four years in the National Adult Baseball Association. Known for his defensive focus and relentless effort, he built his playing career around accountability and team-first principles. Today, he emphasizes fundamentals, mental toughness, and leadership while helping players grow within a competitive team environment.

Coach Barrientos is committed to developing disciplined, accountable, and respectful young leaders who represent Verrado High School with pride. His mission is to help players lead, compete, and carry themselves with integrity long after their baseball careers end.

Coach Hernandez was born and raised in Venezuela and began playing baseball at age nine. He went on to play for 22 years, including 14 seasons professionally with the Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, and Seattle Mariners organizations. Following his playing career, he served as a pitching coach in the Seattle Mariners minor league system for six years before transitioning to club baseball, where he is now in his fourth year of coaching.

Coach Hernandez brings a wealth of professional experience to the Vipers program and is passionate about developing young athletes both on the mound and as individuals, fostering discipline, confidence, and love for the game.