Instructors

Owner Matt Mahay

  • Title/Position: Owner, Director of Player Development
  • Favorite MLB Team: Chicago White Sox

Matt Mahay has been an integral part of the Play Ball USA team since joining in January 2008 as a Hitting Instructor. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, taking on roles as Facility Manager and Program Coordinator, before ultimately becoming the General Manager. In Summer 2013, Matt, alongside Ross Wolfson, purchased the business from former owner Nelson Gord, further solidifying his leadership role in the organization.

Matt's athletic background is extensive, having spent four years as a Varsity Outfielder for the North Central College Cardinals, where he also played first base and pitched. As a Junior in 2007, Matt led the team in hitting, and he finished both his Junior and Senior seasons ranked first or second in nearly all major offensive categories. His passion for baseball extended beyond college, as he played four summers of semi-pro ball with the Oak Forest Shooters in the Chicago Suburban Baseball League. In 2007, Matt was one of just two Division III players selected for the league's All-College Team.

With a wealth of experience working with players of all ages and skill levels, Coach Mahay has made a significant impact in both youth and competitive coaching. In 2013, he was named Head Coach of the USA Baseball NTIS Great Lakes 12U team, which competes annually at the USA Baseball Complex in Cary, NC. Additionally, Matt served as the Head Coach and Program Director for the Illinois Indians Travel Baseball Club, where he further honed his ability to lead and develop talent. He is currently responsible for managing and directing all programs for the Illinois Travel Baseball Club, overseeing every aspect of the organization’s operations and player development

Through his roles, Coach Mahay has demonstrated a deep commitment to the growth of baseball at the grassroots level, ensuring athletes not only develop their skills but also gain valuable life lessons through the sport. His experience spans across all levels, from coaching elite teams to nurturing young talent, making him a well-rounded and respected figure in the baseball community.

  • Location(s): Team Training Center, Player Development Academy

  • Title/Position: Pitching Instructor
  • Favorite MLB Team: Chicago White Sox

Jacob's journey in baseball reflects his dedication and versatility both on and off the field. After completing his first professional season as a pitcher for the Windy City Thunderbolts in the Frontier League, Jacob can look back on a rich background that began at Glenbrook South High School, where he excelled as both a pitcher and hitter, earning all-conference honors.

His collegiate baseball career further shaped his development. Jacob played at Rutgers University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and most notably, the University of Illinois-Springfield (UIS), where he was part of the team that made a memorable run to the 2022 World Series. This experience provided him with invaluable insights into high-level competition and team dynamics.

In addition to his playing career, Jacob is passionate about player development, with a focus on both pitching and hitting. His expertise in these areas demonstrates his deep understanding of the game. He's also pursuing further professional growth as he works towards completing his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification, aiming to enhance his ability to support athletes' physical training and performance. This commitment shows his desire to not only contribute to the field of baseball but also help others maximize their athletic potential.

  • Location(s): Team Training Center, Player Development Academy
Instructor Tim Mahay

  • Title/Position: Head Strength & Conditioning Instructor
  • Favorite MLB Team: Chicago White Sox

Tim is a dedicated and experienced professional in the realm of Sports Rehabilitation and Performance Enhancement, with a strong background in both athletics and education. As an Illinois Travel Baseball Club alumni and a former 2-year Varsity Center Fielder at Brother Rice High School in Chicago, Tim demonstrated his athletic ability early on. After undergoing labrum reconstructive surgery following his graduation in 2017, he pivoted his focus toward a career in sports rehabilitation to help others avoid and recover from similar injuries.

Tim earned his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Dayton in Exercise and Movement/Pre Physical Therapy in 2021. His academic foundation has equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to specialize in strength training and conditioning for athletes, as well as entire teams. Tim designs safe and effective training programs tailored to individual needs and goals.

In addition to his expertise in performance enhancement, Tim is committed to injury prevention and educating athletes on proper techniques for sport-specific exercises. His approach enhances both athletic performance and bodily function, ensuring athletes can perform at their best while minimizing the risk of injury.

  • Location(s): Team Training Center

  • Title/Position: Hitting Instructor
  • Favorite MLB Team: Chicago White Sox

Justin Millner is a highly experienced baseball player and coach with a rich background in both competitive play and youth development. He is currently an active member of both the Buffalo Grove White Sox and the Chicago Metropolitan Baseball Association (CMBA) Winnemac Electrons, where he has helped lead the team to three CMBA Championships. Justin's contributions to the league are further recognized by his two-time selection as a CMBA All-Star and his lifetime slash line achievement, a testament to his consistency and performance on the field.

In addition to his playing career, Justin has a strong track record in coaching and youth development. He has coached the 12U Boys Travel Baseball Team for the Highland Park Park District, focusing on skill development and team dynamics. His leadership also extends to his role as a Sports Camp Site Director for the Deerfield Park District and as a Superstars Camp Sports Coordinator for the Lake Forest Park District, where he helped organize and lead sports camps for young athletes. Furthermore, Justin has worked as a coach for 1-on-1 Baseball hitting drills at Bash Academy in Chicago, refining players' hitting techniques and fundamentals.

In 1998, Justin was accepted to the University of Tampa with a roster spot, marking a significant milestone in his baseball career, further demonstrating his skill and dedication to the sport. His diverse experiences as both a player and coach make him a well-rounded and passionate advocate for developing young athletes in the game of baseball.

  • Location(s): Player Development Academy
Instructor Luis Saldana

  • Title/Position: Baseball and Softball Pitching/Hitting Instructor
  • Favorite MLB Team: Chicago Cubs

Luis "Coach Louie" Saldaña is a renowned figure in the world of softball and baseball, with a career that spans over three decades. Hailing from Chicago, Coach Louie began his journey in baseball before making a successful transition to softball in 1992. Throughout his career, he played for several prestigious teams, including Aurora Dolan Murphy in Illinois, Pete's Blues in St. Louis, Fedlock in Washington, DC, and the Dominican Republic representing the USA National Softball Team.

Over his 32-year playing career, Coach Louie has consistently competed at the highest levels of Fastpitch Softball, facing off against the world’s top male players. His impressive resume includes participation in 17 ISC World Tournaments, 16 USA National Tournaments, and 7 AAU International Championships.

In addition to his successful playing career, Coach Louie has transitioned into coaching, bringing his wealth of experience to High School Baseball. With a focus on pitching and hitting, he is eager to share his extensive knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation of players. His background in both softball and baseball allows him to offer a unique perspective to athletes, helping them refine their skills and succeed in both sports.

  • Location(s): Player Development Academy
Lucia Ibarra

  • Title/Position: Customer Relations Manager and Scheduling Coordinator
  • Favorite MLB Team: Chicago Cubs

Lucia became a valued member of the Play Ball USA team in September 2021, bringing her strong organizational and customer service skills to the role. In her position, Lucia plays a key role in managing customer relations, assisting with memberships, scheduling private lessons, and coordinating facility rentals. Her attention to detail and ability to effectively communicate make her an essential part of the team.

One of Lucia's standout responsibilities is matching players with the right instructor, ensuring that each athlete receives personalized attention based on their specific needs and skill level. Whether a player is looking to refine their technique or elevate their game, Lucia's expertise ensures they are paired with the best possible instructor to help them reach their full potential.

  • First Aid, CPR, AED Certified
  • Location(s): Team Training Center, Player Development Academy