Jake Fox
Jake Fox
Embedded Files
Head Coach/ Founder
Jake's love for sports is outmatched only by his dedication to mentoring kids. He brings new meaning to the phrase “play hard, have fun” by answering the call to shape young minds and hearts through a deep love for the game...any game.
With 20 years of experience playing in the Majors, Jake brings a wealth of knowledge, discipline, and real-world experience to every team he touches. Now coaching at Father Gabriel Richard High School, he continues to lead with humility, passion, and heart, using his platform to pour into the next generation of athletes.
From faith to service to sports, Jake’s personal mantra is to approach everything in life with Passion, Patience, Persistence, and Perseverance. His gift is sharing these values with kids by combining structure and discipline with joy and fun in every setting.
As a coach, Jake's dedication and enthusiasm are infectious — inspiring not only his players but also the broader community. His unwavering commitment to sportsmanship and fair play sets a standard that reaches far beyond the field.
Jake’s goal for the Slingshots is to harness the avenue of baseball to develop youth into virtuous, confident, and capable young adults ready to lead both on and off the field.
Dan Blethen
Dan Blethen
Head Coach/ Founder
Meet Dan, a dedicated and passionate coach with a lifelong affinity for sports. From the age of 5, Dan has been immersed in the world of baseball, cultivating an unyielding love for the game that only intensified with time. His commitment to the sport led him to become not only an outstanding player but also a compassionate mentor for the young athletes he coaches.
Dan's greatest joy lies in guiding and nurturing the next generation of athletes- including his step son, David. His passion for coaching goes beyond winning trophies; it's about instilling life skills, teamwork, and discipline in his young charges. To Dan, every child he coaches represents a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives, empowering them to reach their full potential.
With a long tenure of coaching baseball, football and wrestling, Dan brings a wealth of experience and heart to the field. In addition to his role with the Slingshots, Dan also coaches for GameDay USA and Father Gabriel Richard High School, continuing to pour into youth sports at every level. He’s excited to be part of the Slingshots family and help grow it into the incredible program it’s destined to be!
Jeff Yoell
13U Coach
Jeff’s love for baseball has taken him to many playing fields and more tournaments than he can count. Jeff’s love for the game started at a young age when he was in middle school, playing baseball. From that point Jeff has played with many teams, including all men’s teams as well as co-ed softball. Jeff has found in life that he loves to be a leader and loves to help others in a genuine way. Jeff states “It is his calling to help others and guide them just as Jesus has done for him.” He has over 10 years of coaching experience and is excited to join the Slingshots. Winning isn’t everything but the satisfaction of knowing his team has done their best is the trophy is for him.
Jason Maschke
14U Coach
Jason is a passionate youth baseball coach who brings years of experience and energy to the field. A standout high school athlete, Jason went on to have a successful collegiate career in basketball, honing both his skills and his deep understanding of what it takes to be a great athlete. Now, as a coach, he’s dedicated to developing young players through teamwork, sportsmanship, and hard work.
Jason's approachable and supportive style creates a positive environment where players feel encouraged to push themselves. He believes baseball is more than just a game—it's about building character and a lifelong love for the sport. Whether he’s teaching the fundamentals of hitting or instilling discipline and respect, Jason inspires his players to strive for excellence both on the field and in life.
Brady West
14U Coach
Coach Brady West brings enthusiasm, energy, and a strong baseball IQ to the Southeast Michigan Slingshots 14U Yellow team. Coaching alongside Jason Maschke, Brady is focused on developing well-rounded athletes who play the game the right way — with hustle, discipline, and heart.
Brady has a natural ability to connect with players and help them build confidence through consistent reps, clear instruction, and positive reinforcement. His love for the game shines through in every practice and game, and he's committed to helping each athlete reach their full potential on and off the field.
Carissa Cardone
Marketing Guru/ Founder
With her extensive background in marketing and PR, Carissa has been a cornerstone of the Slingshots from the very beginning. Her deep love for the community and unwavering commitment to her faith make her the true heart of our team. Carissa’s positivity, warmth, and light have been a constant source of inspiration, and she continues to brighten every aspect of our organization.
Danielle Blethen
Operations Mastermind/ Founder
Danielle brings positivity and energy to everything she does, keeping the Slingshots organized and running smoothly. Her hardworking nature, caring spirit, and persistence ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. A true baseball enthusiast and softball player herself, Danielle’s passion for the game shines through in her dedication to the team.
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