Testimonials

“I was a part of the Deacons during their inception. Having known Coaches Keith Johnson, Jeff Johnson, and Kyle Owsley even before that, I can without doubt credit the success I have to the guidance and coaching I was given from this program. Before the Deacons I had some ability but no direction. Under these coaches I was put on track, given knowledge that only those who truly love and cherish the game of baseball could show you. Respect and love for the game is what the Deacons program demands.

As a pitcher I learned more than just new pitches from Coach Kyle. I was introduced to learn how to find my bodies’ natural movements, how to correctly and safely develop arm health and strength, pitch sequences, how to find hitter weaknesses, and the list goes on. Even more so, I was able to develop the mental side of pitching so much further. Coach Kyle knows the kind of attitude, values, and mindset it takes to be a successful pitcher at all levels of baseball. If you’re a young pitcher and you want to take your game to the next level to compete at the varsity and college level and beyond then you need to talk to Coach Kyle

Baseball is more than just a game – it’s a way of life. Being a ballplayer teaches young men greater life lessons than anything I can think of. The number #1 priority of the Deacons is developing better young men.

Some of the players from the Deacons, I have played against and with at the college level. So Deacons alumni are continuing to advance in the baseball ranks. This program is a family and those who have come before and who will come after are a part of the legacy that is Deacons baseball.

This coaching staff has dedicated their time and effort and even their hearts into my well-being not only as a player but as a student, as a man of God, and as a young man. I will forever be grateful for what this program and these coaches gave me. I will forever be proud to have been a Deacon.” – Zachary Martirano, Nyack College, Mt. Carmel Class of 2014

“Playing for the Deacons gave me the opportunity to compete against quality competition and grow both as a baseball player and young man. Coach Owsley, Coach Johnson, and their great staff do a great job at spending time with every player individually and helping them build their strengths and work on their weaknesses. They also take the time to get to know their players and build long lasting relationships with them. It was a privilege to play for this program and I would recommend it to any young man who is looking to further their baseball skills and build camaraderie in a team environment.” – Jacob Benson, University of La Verne Baseball, Mt. Carmel Class of 2016.

“The Deacons organization is a great baseball program with coaches who provide you with what it takes to get to the next level. They expect nothing but to give it your all day in and day out whether it is at practice or in a game. I loved showing up to the field knowing that I had coaches who wished nothing but the best for me as a player and as a man. I recommend this baseball program, it is a great one, it has definitely shaped me who I am as a person and as a ball player.” – Eddie Velazco, Grossmont College Baseball, Mt. Carmel Class of 2016.

“Coaches Keith Johnson and Kyle Owsley, and their outstanding staff have developed a respected organization within the San Diego Community. I am privileged to say I played for them for 8 years. While I chose to pursue football at the collegiate level, instead of baseball, I learned invaluable lessons through the Deacons Baseball Club. As players, we were challenged daily to put Team before Self. The coaching staff made tireless efforts to ensure we learned about internal motivation and commitment to team. Beyond the field, every Deacons Coach makes sure to develop a personal relationship with each player. They truly care about the development and well-being of all their players. I can say, I’m a better football player and a solid citizen today because of their tutelage. I would recommend any baseball player in San Diego County play for the San Diego Deacons.” – Carter Couch, Houston Baptist University Football, Mt. Carmel Class of 2016.

“Even though I decided to play college football rather than baseball, I’m glad I played for the Deacons Baseball Club during my amateur career. For 5 seasons, the Deacons Coaching Staff challenged me to reach personal and program goals, and often, achieve more. The program insisted on players bettering their environmental awareness and applying a selfless approach to the game and team. These are lessons I’m applying to my college studies and football career. Coaches Kyle Owsley, Keith Johnson, and Nick Rodieck created strong bonds with me as a person. We still talk to this day. And, that means a lot. If you’re a player looking to better yourself as a player and person, the Deacons are for you.” – Jordan Gochenour, Southern Utah University Football, Mt. Carmel Class of 2016.