Lessons
Private Lessons at LaunchPad
Looking for personalized, one-on-one instruction? LaunchPad is proud to provide a premier training space where experienced independent coaches help players develop their skills and confidence.
Each coach operates their own independent coaching business and sets their own lesson availability, rates, and coaching style. Players book directly with the coach they choose, while LaunchPad provides the facility and training space for lessons to take place.
Visit each coach's profile to learn more about their background, lesson offerings, availability, and booking information.
Have Your Own Coach?
You're welcome to bring your own instructor! Simply reserve a batting cage through our Cage Rentals page, and enjoy access to LaunchPad's professional training facility.
Whether you're working on hitting, pitching, fielding, or overall player development, LaunchPad provides the space for athletes to train, improve, and enjoy the game.
Private Lesson Notice
LaunchPad provides the training facility and the use of a reservation system for private lessons. The coach you select is responsible for all instruction, coaching services, and supervision provided during your lesson. Private lessons are conducted independently by each coach, while LaunchPad's role is limited to providing the training space.
BILLY JACK RYAN
@coach_hot_sauce
Billy Jack is a 10+ year Coach, who specializes in Hitting and Pitching.
Coach Billy Jack was born in LA & has a long track record of developing youth around the Bay Area. Leading youth programs for the Giants, Padres, & Marin Baseball, just to name a few.
JESSE GASSMAN
Born and raised in Mill Valley, 23 year old Coach Jesse brings a youthful approach to coaching.
As a Redwood High School and UC Santa Barbara Alum, he brings winning experience into his coaching - winning Championships at both levels. With years of experience working with players of all ages, he values connecting with kids while watching them progress.
Specializing in infield, pitching, and hitting, Coach Jesse’s lessons are designed to build both strong skills and confidence.
LUKE ZLATUNICH
With over 7 years of coaching experience, Luke specializes in hitting, catching, and infield.
A native of Marin County, Luke played at Redwood High School and has been actively involved in coaching local little league and travel ball since his high school days. He brings a deep passion for the game to every session, focusing not only on technical skills but also on instilling essential values like a strong work ethic and solid character.
Luke’s lessons are perfect for young athletes aiming to refine their swing or elevate their defensive game.
MACKIE SKALL
Coach Mackie brings a competitive, team-first mindset and strong leadership background to every lesson. A former varsity captain at Redwood High School, he led his team to a championship victory in his senior year — an experience that shaped his approach to preparation, accountability, and competing with confidence.
Specializing in catching and hitting, Coach Mackie focuses on strong fundamentals and an emphasis on the mental side of the game. He believes success comes from doing the little things right, working hard, and respecting the game. At the same time, he understands baseball is meant to be enjoyed. His goal is to help players grow not only in skill, but in mindset — learning how to compete, lead, and have fun every time they step on the field.
RAFAEL BETANCES
@BARRELFINDER
Rafael is a 15+ year Coach, who specializes in hitting and fielding.
Coach Raf was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. His private trainings are unique, with a focus on developing not just skilled players, but also well-rounded individuals who will make a positive impact both on and off the field.
STERLING PERRY
Coach Sterling was born and raised in West Marin, at 23-years-old Sterling brings a positive and energetic approach to player development.
A former varsity captain at Archie Williams High School and a College of Marin alumni, he has competed at a high level and understands the dedication required to succeed.
Specializing in catching, infield, and hitting, Coach Sterling focuses on building strong fundamentals while also instilling confidence in every player he works with. He is passionate about helping kids grow not only as athletes, but also as well-rounded individuals who carry their skills beyond the field.
Aria Pogni - Softball
A Marin County native and former standout at Tamalpais High School, Coach Aria brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to every lesson. A four-year varsity letter winner, two-time team captain, three-time All-MCAL selection, MCAL Player of the Year, All-State selection, and North Coast Senior Player of the Year, Aria went on to play Division I softball at Loyola Marymount University.
With more than seven years of coaching experience, Aria provides individualized hitting instruction focused on swing mechanics, timing, pitch recognition, hand-eye coordination, and the mental side of the game. Her lessons are tailored to each player's unique needs and goals.
What truly sets Coach Aria apart is her ability to connect with athletes. She takes the time to build relationships, create confidence, and foster a positive environment where players feel supported, challenged, and excited to improve. In addition to coaching locally, Aria has shared her passion for the game internationally through coaching and service trips in the Dominican Republic.
Aria is currently fully booked and not accepting new clients at this time. However, please feel free to reach out to inquire about future availability, as openings may become available. She may also be able to recommend another coach who would be a great fit for your player.
Morgan Carlson - Softball
A lifelong softball player and one of the nation's top-ranked recruits, Coach Morgan brings energy, enthusiasm, and firsthand experience to every lesson. A Marin Catholic High School standout, Morgan has played competitive softball since the age of four and currently competes for Lady Magic Munoz 18U. She has committed to continue her academic and athletic career at the University of California, Berkeley.
Throughout her playing career, Morgan has earned numerous accolades, including MCAL First Team as a freshman, MCAL Player of the Year as a sophomore, and recognition as one of the Top 50 nationally ranked outfielders in the Class of 2027.
Morgan specializes in working with younger softball players, providing individualized hitting instruction focused on swing mechanics, consistency, bat speed, confidence, and developing a strong foundation at the plate. Each lesson is tailored to the player's age, skill level, and personal goals, creating a positive and encouraging environment where athletes can build confidence while having fun.
In addition to training daily and continuing to develop her own game, Morgan enjoys giving back to the softball community by helping coach a local 12U team. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation of players and helping young athletes discover both confidence and a lifelong love for the game.
Sona Halajian- Softball
A professional softball player with experience competing at the highest levels of the game, Coach Sona brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and passion to every lesson. After a standout collegiate career playing Division I softball at the University of California, Berkeley, Sona completed her master's degree while competing during her fifth season at the University of Central Florida.
Sona's professional playing career has taken her around the world, competing in the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and throughout Europe. Her experience across multiple levels of competition provides athletes with a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed.
In addition to her playing career, Sona served as a Director of Player Development at the Division I level, where she specialized in athlete development, team culture, and performance. She offers private instruction in pitching, hitting, and overall softball development for players of all ages and skill levels.
What sets Coach Sona apart is her commitment to helping athletes develop not only their skills, but also their confidence, mental toughness, and independence. Every lesson is tailored to the individual player, creating a supportive environment where athletes are challenged, encouraged, and empowered to reach their full potential.