KJ Kinsella

KJ is the founder of the Illinois Patriots program. He began coaching varsity baseball and providing private instruction upon graduating from University of Illinois-Springfield where he played for two years before injury ended his playing days. KJ has a passion for pushing kids to reach the best of their abilities and providing them with the skills necessary to reach the next level of baseball. He coaches a couple of the teams, and provides the administration and training for all Patriot teams. 

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"Baseball has provided a lot of opportunity and life lessons for me. Some of my greatest challenges and successes in life have come from this game. I am thankful to still be involved in the game that has always been a large part of my life." - KJ

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Please email kjk.kinsella@gmail.com or call/text at 847-331-4414 to schedule individual lessons. 

James Range has been with the Patriot program for six seasons. James began his collegiate career at Division I Junior College Southwestern Illinois College. After having strong success there, he went on to play for University of Illinois-Springfield where he finished out his successful collegiate career. After his playing days he was the varsity head coach at Lutheran High School before accepting a new job. James has strong coaching and training experience with kids of all ages and will play a crucial role in the development of the players in the organization.

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Please call or text at 618-779-6387 to schedule individual lessons.

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Daniel McClung has been with the Patriot program for four seasons. Daniel is a four year college baseball player who is joining the staff full time this year as he wraps up his collegiate playing career. Daniel served last year in the organization as an intern in helping coach multiple teams while working with many players. Daniel began his college playing days at Hannibal-LaGrange, and then transferred to Monmouth College where he is now a senior finishing his career. 

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Daniel is a highly driven individual who brings a large amount of energy to his approach. Daniel will be an integral part of the staff going forward. He recently completed his CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) which will be a great benefit to our program as a whole. 

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Please call or text 217-481-4642 to schedule individual lessons or to set up strength/conditioning plans and training.

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Graham Bender

Instructor/Coach

Graham Bender has been with the Patriot program for five seasons. Graham is a graduate from Glenwood High School in Chatham, IL where he received all conference honors and furthered his career to playing collegiate baseball at Lincoln Land Community College. 

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Coach Bender is an asset to the program who brings a strong competitive energy to his players. Graham continues to develop his craft as a coach and student of the game.

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Please call or text 217-220-1201 to schedule individual lessons.

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Danny Midiri

Coach

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Danny Midiri has been with the Patriot program for five seasons. Previously, he was the head varsity baseball coach at Lanphier High School for four seasons. He played collegiate baseball at SCI in Springfield, before attending EIU to finish his education.

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Coach Midiri does a phenomenal job of understanding his players, adapting to what his team needs each day, and teaching the game the right way. 

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William Ryan - 11U Assistant Coach - Illinois Patriot Alum/Rochester Varsity Baseball

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Daniel Pryer - 12U Assistant Coach - Illinois Patriot Alum/Riverton High School/MacMurray College Baseball

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Luke Read - 17U Assistant Coach - Illinois Patriot Alum/Southeast/Morton College and Harper College Baseball