With the first week of school beginning here at St. Petersburg College, so does a new era of SPC Baseball. Coach Ryan Beckman took over as Interim Head Coach in January 2012 and will return as the Head Coach for the 2012-2013 season. This year, Coach Beckman brings with him a new staff full of knowledge and experience.
2012-2013 SPC Baseball Coaches
Ryan Beckman – Head Coach
Kenny Norman
TJ Large
Jason Szafarski
Todd Brazeal
Coach Kenny Norman is the only returning staff member from last year’s team. “Coach Norman will be in charge of our Hitters and Outfielders. He is very passionate about the game of baseball and is a great role model to our student athletes” Coach Beckman said. His knowledge of hitting and defensive play can only improve the performance of SPC players. Prior to coaching with St. Petersburg College, he was a 6th round pick by the Minnesota Twins in 1989 out of Sweetwater, TX.
Coach TJ Large is a member of the Titan Alumni and played for Coach Dave Pano in 2003. After leaving SPC, Coach Large went on to play at the University of Alabama, and the Boston Red Sox. “It is always great to connect the past to the future. Bringing TJ on board was huge in recapturing the great tradition St. Petersburg Baseball has.” Coach Large will oversee all aspects of the pitching staff.
Coach Jason Szafarski previously held positions as the head coach at Boca Ciega, and Dixie Hollins High Schools. He took over two difficult situations and turned the programs around. “As one of the most recognized faces in Pinellas County baseball, Coach Szafarski brings with him a great knowledge of the area and the game with him to St. Pete.” He has a tremendous impact on young lives every day and is a true asset to the program. Coach Szafarski will be instructing the infielders.
Coach Todd Brazeal is a recent graduate from the University of South Florida. While battling through injuries this past spring, he completed his senior season by hitting .233 with 3 home runs and 28 RBIs. “It is not often you come across a young man as mature and experienced in the game of baseball as Todd. His energy and enthusiasm is going to have a great impact on the Titan program.” Coach Brazeal will oversee the Baserunners.
SPC Locker Room 