Chris joined the Play Ball staff in 2007, and is currently responsible for developing the Play Ball USA pitching curriculum. In addition to his management of the Des Plaines location, Chris is also the Director of Operations at our satellite location in Lindenhurst, IL.

Chris pitched professionally with the Gary South-Shore Railcats in 2003. After two seasons with the 'Cats he was traded to the storied St. Paul Saints where he was one of the top relievers in the Northern League. He most recently spent the 2006 season with the Schaumburg Flyers. His collegiate career began at Illinois State University, and finished at North Central College.

Prior to joining Play Ball USA, Chris was one of the most sought after independent instructors in the Chicago Area. He has conducted clinics throughout the nation, and his ability to teach the game has gained enough notoriety for his services to be requested in the Cayman Islands in recent years!

Instructor Availability: Wednesday 7-9pm, Saturday and Sunday 12-5pm

 

Ron played professionally in the Houston Astros Organization (1990-1993), and with the Schaumburg Flyers during their inaugural season in 1999. Prior to being drafted, Ron graduated from Triton Jr. College where he was named the N4C Best Defensive Player as shortstop for the Trojans.

In addition to his playing experience, ron has extensive baseball and softball coaching and instructional experience with athletes of all ages and ability levels. His experience in softball stems from his time as the Assistant Coach for the nationally ranked DePaul Blue Demons Women's Softball team (1993-1995). Most recently, Ron became a certified pitching instructor by the National Pitching Assocation of Dr. Tom House- pitching coach to Mark Prior, Randy Johnson and Nolan Ryan.

After playing professionally, Ron received his undergraduate degree from DePaul University in Physical Education (K-12), and his Master's Degree from National Louis University.

Instructor Availability: Mondays 7-9pm

Cory Lapinski

Cory joined the Play Ball Staff in 2007 where he coached one of Play Ball USA’s Fall Developmental Teams.  In addition to his coaching skills, Cory is an experienced hitting and pitching instructor.

Cory played professionally in the Houston Astros Organization (2005-2006), and most recently with the Gateway Grizzlies in the Frontier League in 2007. His collegiate career was played at Illinois Wesleyan where he played both centerfield and pitcher while receiving the Player of the Year Award in the CCIW his junior season.

In addition to joining Play Ball USA’s staff, Cory received his bachelor’s degree from Illinois Wesleyan in Biology and is currently a substitute high school teacher.

Instructor Availability:
Wednesdays 7-9pm, Fridays 5-9pm, and Saturdays 12-5pm

 

Lanaya Gutkowski
(Picture Coming Soon!)
Lanaya just recently joined the Play Ball Staff in 2008.
Lanaya is an experienced softball pitching instructor.
 
Lanaya most recently played at the College of Lake County, where she earned All-Conference honors her freshman and sophomore year. Also in her sophomore year she was named All-Region. Her high school softball career was played at Antioch High School.
 
Please call 847/535-7602 for Instructor Availability.