Coaching Staff
Founder & Lead Hitting Instructor
Matthew Pita
Matt Pita brings elite-level playing experience and professional coaching knowledge to Armory Baseball & Softball.
A former Division I standout at Virginia Military Institute (VMI), Matt earned multiple honors including Virginia State Player of the Year (ABCA) and 3rd Team All-American recognition. His performance at the collegiate level led to being drafted in the 2018 MLB Players Draft, playing six seasons professionally in the New York Yankees organization up to the AAA level, where he developed firsthand insight into what it truly takes to compete at the highest levels of the game.
Following his playing career, Matt transitioned into coaching at the professional level, serving as a Hitting Coach in the Miami Marlins organization. Working with high-level prospects daily, he refined a player development approach rooted in structure, accountability, advanced technology, and game-realistic training.
At Armory Baseball & Softball, Matt’s mission is simple:
Deliver professional-level training and development to athletes who want to maximize their potential.
His training philosophy combines:
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Advanced player development systems used in MLB organizations
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Detailed swing and approach analysis
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Structured, progression-based development plans
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A focus on long-term growth, not quick fixes
Matt is passionate about building confident, disciplined, and fundamentally sound athletes.
Assistant Hitting Coach
Tyler Stack
A highly accomplished Monroe County standout, Tyler earned Monroe County Division 1 First Team and Second Team honors while competing at the highest level of Section V baseball. He was also named to the Section V All Class A Team and recognized as an All Greater Rochester Exceptional Senior.
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In addition to his individual accolades, he was a key contributor to two New York State American Legion State Championship teams. His playing experience at the elite level fuels his passion for developing hitters through disciplined mechanics, competitive mindset training, and game-ready preparation.
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Since transitioning into coaching, Tyler has trained numerous standout hitters throughout Monroe County and the Greater Rochester area. Several of his athletes have gone on to earn All-League and All-County honors, secure college roster spots, and significantly increase measurable offensive metrics including exit velocity and on-base production.
His philosophy centers on developing disciplined, adaptable hitters who can compete in any count — not just look good in a cage.
Lead Softball Instructor
Hannah LaGrou
Hannah is a gifted softball athlete that brings many years of competitive playing and coaching experience to all levels. In high school, she stood out having been a four-year varsity starter. She was selected to be Genesee Region All Star three out of four years in high school ball. Other individual accolades include 2x Section V Class C2 Sectional Finals MVP and Medalle AMCC Player of the week. While at D3 Medaille College, Hannah was 3rd in the AMCC conference in home runs in her junior. Her focus positions were catcher, third base, and shortstop which gives her athletes a well-rounded perspective of the game, with expertise in hitting and catching development. Having experienced playing at the collegiate level, it gave her a deep understanding of both defensive strategy and offensive execution which translated into coaching.
Hannah began coaching in college. She was selected from a talented group of individuals to become the hitting coach for a local softball organization. There she developed athletes aged 10-14 to become exceptional hitters. That experience only pushed her to do more and coach more. She has been involved with Amherst Lightning, being an assistant coach for two years. There, she worked closely with athletes to refine mechanics, increase confidence, and elevate performance at the plate. Hannah has been the head coach of multiple teams and knows exactly what it takes to be successful at the highest level of play.
Her coaching philosophy is simple, but strong and built on years of expert experience. She believes building fundamentals is key. Once you can master the basics you can build on that foundation and continue to find success. She also strongly focuses on developing softball IQ and cultivating mental toughness. Success on the field begins off the field. What makes her different than others? The answer is simple, her passion for the game. No matter what, Hannah will bring high energy to every training session and give 100%. She also expects her athletes to do the same. By combining technical instruction with enthusiasm and accountability, she creates an environment where players build confidence, sharpen skills, and develop a true love for the game.
Lead Pitching and Defense Instructor
Trent Wasserman
Trent Wasserman brings a wealth of experience both on and off the field to Genesee Community College. A former outfielder and left-handed pitcher, he played his high school baseball at Brighton High School before continuing his career at Niagara Community College.
Now in his second year coaching at Genesee, Trent focuses on developing players’ skills, instilling a strong work ethic, and helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the diamond. Through his playing and coaching experience, he has built strong connections within the college baseball community, allowing him to guide players through the recruiting process and help open doors at the next level.
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Physical Therapist
Derek Hagen
Derek Hagen is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the founder of Hagen Movement Institute, specializing in helping baseball and softball athletes bridge the gap between rehab and performance.
A former state championship baseball player and collegiate athlete at Marshall University, Derek brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the demands placed on overhead athletes. In addition to his 15+ years of clinical work, he has spent the past five years coaching baseball and softball, giving him a unique perspective that blends medical expertise with on-field performance.
With a strong background in movement assessment, injury prevention, and return-to-play progression, Derek works with athletes of all levels to not only recover from injury, but come back stronger, more efficient, and more resilient. His approach goes beyond traditional physical therapy by integrating strength, mobility, and sport-specific movement into every plan.
At The Armory, Derek collaborates with coaches and trainers to provide a seamless development experience, ensuring athletes are supported from rehab through high-level performance. Whether working through pain, recovering from injury, or optimizing movement, his goal is simple: keep athletes on the field and performing at their best.
Derek has a particular passion for overhead athletes, focusing on shoulder health, throwing mechanics, and workload management to reduce injury risk and improve long-term performance.
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Ryan Higgins
Ryan Higgins brings a well-rounded athletic background and a passion for performance training to our program. A Le Roy native, Higgins grew up playing both baseball and football, developing a strong foundation in strength, speed, and overall athleticism. He continued his baseball career at Genesee Community College through his sophomore year, gaining valuable experience at the collegiate level.
Now serving as our strength coach, Higgins works with athletes of all ages, focusing on building strength, improving movement, and enhancing on-field performance. In addition to his coaching, he has a strong understanding of nutrition and how it supports athletic development. Currently studying at SUNY Brockport, Higgins is committed to continuing his education and providing athletes with knowledgeable, well-rounded training to help them reach their full potential.