Our Team
Executive Director
Aaron Dickson
Executive director
Board of Directors
Scott Davis Fob Board President |
Jordan Bice Fob Board Vice President |
Drew Hagedorn Board Member |
Katherine Du Pont Executive Committee |
Gabe Chase Program Committee |
Michelle Fritts Gala Committee |
Ben Longcor Co-Founder and Program Committee |
Jonathan Jwayad Gala Committee |
Jason Scott Program Committee, Coaches Clinic chair |
Jim Abreu gala Committee |
Sarah Coakely Gala Committee |
Pam Knowles Executive Committee |
Tiffany Dempsey Board Member |
Michael Yudhishthu Board member |
Donell Morgan Board Member |
Jennifer Aguinzoni
BOARD MEMBER
JD Kiggins
Program committee
Emeritus Board
Keenan Longcor Fob co-founder, EMERITUS BOARD |
Rakeem Washington Board Member, Emeritus Board |
Staff
Gerald Bolden LEAD mentor/coach |
Molly Newcomer PROGRAMS administrator |
Wonjin Lee Coach |
Jayden Henderson Full count rbi research & development assistant |
Ray Watterson Coach |
Sammy DiMinno Marketing & Communications ambassador |
Kemoni Bailey Community events ambassador |
Luke Hill clubhouse manager |
Chad Garber
Coach
Executive Director
Aaron Dickson- Executive Director
Aaron is a Portland native and former Lakeside Little Leaguer. Although football is where he made a name for himself, baseball was his first love and introduction to organized sports. His love for baseball started with attending many city league softball games watching his father and his love for the game. The dream of playing in the big leagues was organically passed down to Aaron as a youngster, as he would organize sandlot games growing up in the streets of NE Portland. After attending Grant High School, Aaron decided to turn to football and would receive a scholarship to attend Portland State University where he received his bachelor’s degree.
Aaron has experienced firsthand how sports can empower underserved youth and enhance lives through the lessons of the game. Growing up in inner city Portland, sports and community enrichment programs have significantly impacted his life. And realizing that impact has helped develop his purpose and who he is today. Aaron comes to Friends of Baseball with over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector, and has a proven track record of identifying opportunities and using his deep network to build partnerships and programming beyond the game. He looks to continue to develop enrichment programs for underserved youth and families because he believes it is his life's work. Serving as Executive Director fulfills his dream of playing in the big leagues as he looks to create programs that generate big league citizens in his community. Aaron lives in NE Portland with his wife, children and dog. He spends his weekends staying active, playing sports or coaching his son.
Aaron is a Portland native and former Lakeside Little Leaguer. Although football is where he made a name for himself, baseball was his first love and introduction to organized sports. His love for baseball started with attending many city league softball games watching his father and his love for the game. The dream of playing in the big leagues was organically passed down to Aaron as a youngster, as he would organize sandlot games growing up in the streets of NE Portland. After attending Grant High School, Aaron decided to turn to football and would receive a scholarship to attend Portland State University where he received his bachelor’s degree.
Aaron has experienced firsthand how sports can empower underserved youth and enhance lives through the lessons of the game. Growing up in inner city Portland, sports and community enrichment programs have significantly impacted his life. And realizing that impact has helped develop his purpose and who he is today. Aaron comes to Friends of Baseball with over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector, and has a proven track record of identifying opportunities and using his deep network to build partnerships and programming beyond the game. He looks to continue to develop enrichment programs for underserved youth and families because he believes it is his life's work. Serving as Executive Director fulfills his dream of playing in the big leagues as he looks to create programs that generate big league citizens in his community. Aaron lives in NE Portland with his wife, children and dog. He spends his weekends staying active, playing sports or coaching his son.
Board of Directors
Scott Davis - Board President
One of Scott’s strongest baseball memories happened at Spring Training in Arizona in 1988. Times were different back then, as he hung over the roof of the dugout seeking the autograph of his idol, Will Clark. The boy next to him hollered “Hey Will, Can I have your autograph?” while Scott used “Mr. Clark” instead. Will signed his ball (and not the other boy), and cemented a value of respect for others that has stuck since. After playing local baseball through high school, Scott has more recently served as a Coach and League Board member for his children and put the spikes back on as a player in Portland’s “old man baseball league”. He leads Marketing and e-Commerce for GrowlerWerks, and holds a Master’s in Business from the University of Oregon. He lives in SW Portland with his wife, Mary, and their two boys.
One of Scott’s strongest baseball memories happened at Spring Training in Arizona in 1988. Times were different back then, as he hung over the roof of the dugout seeking the autograph of his idol, Will Clark. The boy next to him hollered “Hey Will, Can I have your autograph?” while Scott used “Mr. Clark” instead. Will signed his ball (and not the other boy), and cemented a value of respect for others that has stuck since. After playing local baseball through high school, Scott has more recently served as a Coach and League Board member for his children and put the spikes back on as a player in Portland’s “old man baseball league”. He leads Marketing and e-Commerce for GrowlerWerks, and holds a Master’s in Business from the University of Oregon. He lives in SW Portland with his wife, Mary, and their two boys.
Jordan Bice - Board Vice President
Jordan has been a baseball fan since before his mom coached his kindergarten tee-ball team. He grew up in the Portland suburbs before moving to Seattle to study political science and play trumpet in the marching band at the University of Washington. After school, he spent three years in Washington, D.C. working as a legislative aide on Capitol Hill before finally returning home to Portland where he belongs. He now works in Government Affairs for Oxley & Associates and while he wasn’t able to fulfill his childhood dream of playing shortstop for the Seattle Mariners, he still plays in an adult baseball league on Sundays. He lives in southeast Portland with his wife, Samantha, and their Chihuahua, Griffey.
Jordan has been a baseball fan since before his mom coached his kindergarten tee-ball team. He grew up in the Portland suburbs before moving to Seattle to study political science and play trumpet in the marching band at the University of Washington. After school, he spent three years in Washington, D.C. working as a legislative aide on Capitol Hill before finally returning home to Portland where he belongs. He now works in Government Affairs for Oxley & Associates and while he wasn’t able to fulfill his childhood dream of playing shortstop for the Seattle Mariners, he still plays in an adult baseball league on Sundays. He lives in southeast Portland with his wife, Samantha, and their Chihuahua, Griffey.
Jennifer Arguinzoni- Board Member
Jennifer grew up in Peachtree City, a suburb of Atlanta. It was impossible to grow up in Georgia in the 90’s and NOT be an Atlanta Braves fan. Jennifer was an avid slow and fast pitch softball player from a very young age, but fell short of her dream of becoming a second baseman for the Atlanta Braves. Throughout college, Jennifer played intramural ball for her sorority and coached local youth fast pitch ball. Since college, Jennifer has served in various political roles in the Georgia Senate, Washington, DC and locally for the City of Portland before landing in her current role at Nike. She is a Giants fan by marriage and a mother of two- just waiting on the days to coach her own little ones on the ball field!
Jennifer grew up in Peachtree City, a suburb of Atlanta. It was impossible to grow up in Georgia in the 90’s and NOT be an Atlanta Braves fan. Jennifer was an avid slow and fast pitch softball player from a very young age, but fell short of her dream of becoming a second baseman for the Atlanta Braves. Throughout college, Jennifer played intramural ball for her sorority and coached local youth fast pitch ball. Since college, Jennifer has served in various political roles in the Georgia Senate, Washington, DC and locally for the City of Portland before landing in her current role at Nike. She is a Giants fan by marriage and a mother of two- just waiting on the days to coach her own little ones on the ball field!
Drew Hagedorn - Board Member
Drew is a life-long baseball fan. A native Oregonian, Drew comes from a baseball family. His grandfather played at Grant High School and then Willamette University and his father played at Albany Union High School and then briefly at Oregon State. Drew played second and short-stop through high school and his brother pitched for La Salle prep. Drew graduated from the University of Southern California and is now a partner at the Portland law firm Tonkon Torp where he chair’s the firm’s Government Affairs and Public Policy practice group. Drew’s hero is Vin Scully, the longtime radio play-by-play announce for his favorite team, the Los Angeles Dodgers. He and his wife live in Lake Oswego where they root for the Dodgers from afar.
Drew is a life-long baseball fan. A native Oregonian, Drew comes from a baseball family. His grandfather played at Grant High School and then Willamette University and his father played at Albany Union High School and then briefly at Oregon State. Drew played second and short-stop through high school and his brother pitched for La Salle prep. Drew graduated from the University of Southern California and is now a partner at the Portland law firm Tonkon Torp where he chair’s the firm’s Government Affairs and Public Policy practice group. Drew’s hero is Vin Scully, the longtime radio play-by-play announce for his favorite team, the Los Angeles Dodgers. He and his wife live in Lake Oswego where they root for the Dodgers from afar.
Katherine Du Pont - Executive Committee
Growing up, Katherine played competitive softball before turning coach for youth and adult rec leagues. She finds fun and drive in every aspect of the game and is excited to create opportunities for young girls to experience the thrill of the game. Currently Katherine is the Administrative Coordinator for the Center for Advancing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Business through Oregon State University. Prior to OSU, Katherine planned events and conferences for Microsoft, and implemented systems and learning tools into HR consulting firms and SMBs across the country. Outside of work, she lives a life of volunteerism, working with a variety of LGBT and youth development organizations including HOBY Oregon and Friends of the Children. In Katherine’s free time, she loves to travel, play golf, and explore the Willamette Valley wine region
Growing up, Katherine played competitive softball before turning coach for youth and adult rec leagues. She finds fun and drive in every aspect of the game and is excited to create opportunities for young girls to experience the thrill of the game. Currently Katherine is the Administrative Coordinator for the Center for Advancing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Business through Oregon State University. Prior to OSU, Katherine planned events and conferences for Microsoft, and implemented systems and learning tools into HR consulting firms and SMBs across the country. Outside of work, she lives a life of volunteerism, working with a variety of LGBT and youth development organizations including HOBY Oregon and Friends of the Children. In Katherine’s free time, she loves to travel, play golf, and explore the Willamette Valley wine region
Gabe Chase - Program Committee
Gabe grew up in Northeast Portland, developing a love for the game of baseball at Riverside little league and playing whiffle ball. He went on to play at Grant High School, winning a PIL title with his teammates in 2003. Gabe played Junior college baseball in southern California before finishing his college career at CSU Monterey Bay. After college Gabe taught English in Japan where he regularly attended ball games, rooting for the Hanshin Tigers. Gabe returned home to Oregon to attend law school, graduating from the University of Oregon School of Law in 2014. Gabe currently practices law with his father (and former little league coach) at Chase Law, PC. In his free time Gabe enjoys playing slow pitch softball, adult league baseball, and coaching youth baseball and softball.
Gabe grew up in Northeast Portland, developing a love for the game of baseball at Riverside little league and playing whiffle ball. He went on to play at Grant High School, winning a PIL title with his teammates in 2003. Gabe played Junior college baseball in southern California before finishing his college career at CSU Monterey Bay. After college Gabe taught English in Japan where he regularly attended ball games, rooting for the Hanshin Tigers. Gabe returned home to Oregon to attend law school, graduating from the University of Oregon School of Law in 2014. Gabe currently practices law with his father (and former little league coach) at Chase Law, PC. In his free time Gabe enjoys playing slow pitch softball, adult league baseball, and coaching youth baseball and softball.
Michelle Fritts - Gala Committee
For Michelle, baseball continues, in subtle ways, to be a part of her everyday life. Although never playing baseball, she was brought up on a baseball field. Her father, a passionate and long-time baseball coach, instilled the "I Believe" mantra. This belief has guided Michelle throughout her career path. Her past experiences with large businesses to small start-ups have provided unique opportunities. She has been responsible for planning & implementing programs and projects for both non-profits and commerce organizations. A graduate of the University of Puget Sound, Michelle has many valuable skills in customer service, sales, and event coordination. Her work with special events, along with a sales and marketing background, have benefitted organizations including Seattle Mariners Baseball Club, the Portland Rose Festival Association, Sharing Spree, NW Star Academy & Productions, the Beaverton Education Foundation and currently with Chehalem Winery in Newberg, Oregon. It is hard for her to stay out of an athletic scene and feels fortunate to be teamed with the Friends of Baseball organization. She and her husband live in Newberg, Oregon and with their dog Zeus and have two grown boys.
For Michelle, baseball continues, in subtle ways, to be a part of her everyday life. Although never playing baseball, she was brought up on a baseball field. Her father, a passionate and long-time baseball coach, instilled the "I Believe" mantra. This belief has guided Michelle throughout her career path. Her past experiences with large businesses to small start-ups have provided unique opportunities. She has been responsible for planning & implementing programs and projects for both non-profits and commerce organizations. A graduate of the University of Puget Sound, Michelle has many valuable skills in customer service, sales, and event coordination. Her work with special events, along with a sales and marketing background, have benefitted organizations including Seattle Mariners Baseball Club, the Portland Rose Festival Association, Sharing Spree, NW Star Academy & Productions, the Beaverton Education Foundation and currently with Chehalem Winery in Newberg, Oregon. It is hard for her to stay out of an athletic scene and feels fortunate to be teamed with the Friends of Baseball organization. She and her husband live in Newberg, Oregon and with their dog Zeus and have two grown boys.
Ben Longcor - Co-Founder and Program Committee
Ben has loved the game since a very early age, from the beginning, dreamed of being a catcher. As he progressed through little league, Babe Ruth and High School, he finished his career as a first basemen. He still enjoys playing rec-league softball, to keep the skills sharp. After leaving the game as a youth, along with his father, he longed for a continued connection with the sport he loved. From that, Friends of Baseball was born, which grew from a family based foundation set up to keep youth leagues and teams on their feet, to a 501c3 non-profit organization that enhances young ball players through the baseball’s unparalleled power to teach.
Ben graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in 2001 with a BA in Communications/Public Relations. After nearly 11 years as a communications specialist with WE Communications, he decided to focus more on his family and running Friends of Baseball. He is now building his own business as an independent insurance agent. He also dedicates his free time to his wife, two children, and two dogs. Over the years he has given back to the baseball community through his son Sterling's youth leagues as a coach and former league Board member.
“I have always longed to share with others the feeling of team and pureness I had when I played ball throughout youth and high school baseball. Thanks to Friends of Baseball, I am able to help kids and teams experience the sheer joy and purity — the feeling — of baseball. Not only that, I look forward to passing that along to both my young son and daughter in the very near future.”
Ben has loved the game since a very early age, from the beginning, dreamed of being a catcher. As he progressed through little league, Babe Ruth and High School, he finished his career as a first basemen. He still enjoys playing rec-league softball, to keep the skills sharp. After leaving the game as a youth, along with his father, he longed for a continued connection with the sport he loved. From that, Friends of Baseball was born, which grew from a family based foundation set up to keep youth leagues and teams on their feet, to a 501c3 non-profit organization that enhances young ball players through the baseball’s unparalleled power to teach.
Ben graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in 2001 with a BA in Communications/Public Relations. After nearly 11 years as a communications specialist with WE Communications, he decided to focus more on his family and running Friends of Baseball. He is now building his own business as an independent insurance agent. He also dedicates his free time to his wife, two children, and two dogs. Over the years he has given back to the baseball community through his son Sterling's youth leagues as a coach and former league Board member.
“I have always longed to share with others the feeling of team and pureness I had when I played ball throughout youth and high school baseball. Thanks to Friends of Baseball, I am able to help kids and teams experience the sheer joy and purity — the feeling — of baseball. Not only that, I look forward to passing that along to both my young son and daughter in the very near future.”
Jonathan Jwayad - Gala Committee
Jonathan spent his formative years hustling around the base paths for Interstate Little League in North Portland. After receiving All City baseball honors at Benson High School, Jonathan continued his education at the University of Oregon where he played for the Club Baseball Team. During college, he, and three teammates, formed a youth baseball camp called Baseballism. The camp was a success and, in 2013, it was transformed into a lifestyle apparel brand inspired by America’s Pastime. Jonathan is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Baseballism Inc. and has been instrumental in the company’s rapid growth. Jonathan has been responsible for the launch of 8 retail locations around the country at such marquee locations as Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. Jonathan’s greatest pride comes from the fact that Baseballism’s success has allowed the business to donate more $500K in product and cash to baseball organizations, teams, and charities around the world. Jonathan lives in Portland with his wife, son and daughter. He spends his weekends coaching his son’s youth baseball team.
Jonathan spent his formative years hustling around the base paths for Interstate Little League in North Portland. After receiving All City baseball honors at Benson High School, Jonathan continued his education at the University of Oregon where he played for the Club Baseball Team. During college, he, and three teammates, formed a youth baseball camp called Baseballism. The camp was a success and, in 2013, it was transformed into a lifestyle apparel brand inspired by America’s Pastime. Jonathan is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Baseballism Inc. and has been instrumental in the company’s rapid growth. Jonathan has been responsible for the launch of 8 retail locations around the country at such marquee locations as Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. Jonathan’s greatest pride comes from the fact that Baseballism’s success has allowed the business to donate more $500K in product and cash to baseball organizations, teams, and charities around the world. Jonathan lives in Portland with his wife, son and daughter. He spends his weekends coaching his son’s youth baseball team.
Jason Scott - Program Committee
Jason is a native Oregonian, and grew up in N.E. Portland, 7th & Sumner to be exact. Jason attended Grant High School, home of the 2018 basketball state champ. Jason started playing baseball at the age of 7 at Riverside Little League. Riverside is where he fell in love with the game and has lifelong friends that he met in the Riverside dugouts in the early 80’s, he also learned that (TEAM) is bigger than (I) in the game of baseball as well as life. Jason is married to Nicole Bragg-Scott who is an Psychology instructor at Mt. Hood Community College and they have 3 boys. Jason has worked with youth since his days in college in Oklahoma, working with the local high school in Coyle, OK. In his time back in Portland, Jason has worked with youth at Jefferson High School as a coach in Football and brought back the baseball team that had been disbanded for some time. Jason works for Portland Parks & Recreation as the Recreation Coordinator - Teens, Jason feels that his work with PP&R gives him a chance to give back to the community that raised him and held him accountable for his actions. In his spare time, he enjoys watching his son Play baseball for Reynolds Little League. In addition to baseball, Jason loves the game of golf, enjoys cycling, and can even be found with a fishing pole in hand on occasion.
Jason is a native Oregonian, and grew up in N.E. Portland, 7th & Sumner to be exact. Jason attended Grant High School, home of the 2018 basketball state champ. Jason started playing baseball at the age of 7 at Riverside Little League. Riverside is where he fell in love with the game and has lifelong friends that he met in the Riverside dugouts in the early 80’s, he also learned that (TEAM) is bigger than (I) in the game of baseball as well as life. Jason is married to Nicole Bragg-Scott who is an Psychology instructor at Mt. Hood Community College and they have 3 boys. Jason has worked with youth since his days in college in Oklahoma, working with the local high school in Coyle, OK. In his time back in Portland, Jason has worked with youth at Jefferson High School as a coach in Football and brought back the baseball team that had been disbanded for some time. Jason works for Portland Parks & Recreation as the Recreation Coordinator - Teens, Jason feels that his work with PP&R gives him a chance to give back to the community that raised him and held him accountable for his actions. In his spare time, he enjoys watching his son Play baseball for Reynolds Little League. In addition to baseball, Jason loves the game of golf, enjoys cycling, and can even be found with a fishing pole in hand on occasion.
Jim Abreu - Gala Committee
Although Jim’s baseball career was short lived as a youth, he has very fond memories of competing with his older brother and friends in the Bay Area little league program. Some of his best baseball memories are from attending and rooting on the Oakland A’s during the summers. He’s been fortunate to still be involved in the game, both as a Lake Oswego little league coach and now as a passionate fan in stands, cheering for his son’s Lake Oswego High School team. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in California, Jim has been in the mortgage business for the past 25 years and is currently a Senior Relationship Manager for First Republic Bank in Portland. He and his wife of 27 years live in Lake Oswego with their two sons who are both in high school.
Although Jim’s baseball career was short lived as a youth, he has very fond memories of competing with his older brother and friends in the Bay Area little league program. Some of his best baseball memories are from attending and rooting on the Oakland A’s during the summers. He’s been fortunate to still be involved in the game, both as a Lake Oswego little league coach and now as a passionate fan in stands, cheering for his son’s Lake Oswego High School team. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in California, Jim has been in the mortgage business for the past 25 years and is currently a Senior Relationship Manager for First Republic Bank in Portland. He and his wife of 27 years live in Lake Oswego with their two sons who are both in high school.
Sarah Coakely - Gala Committee
Sarah Egge Coakley (Board Member) grew up skiing and golfing in Montana. However, her baseball acumen has increased exponentially over the last decade thanks in large part to her grandmother and kids’ combined love and teaching of the game. Sarah, along with her husband Matt, have spent many hours coaching and ‘team parenting’ their children’s sports teams.
A Licensed Real Estate Agent in Oregon, Sarah applies her social work and event planning background to ensure she provides exceptional service to each client. She is an excellent listener who is highly proficient at finding resources and offers sound advice.
With 2 school age children, she has thorough knowledge of the surrounding school districts including charter and option schools. When she is not working, volunteering or chasing after her lovable, naughty labradoodles – you will probably find her cheering on her kids at the ball field.
Sarah Egge Coakley (Board Member) grew up skiing and golfing in Montana. However, her baseball acumen has increased exponentially over the last decade thanks in large part to her grandmother and kids’ combined love and teaching of the game. Sarah, along with her husband Matt, have spent many hours coaching and ‘team parenting’ their children’s sports teams.
A Licensed Real Estate Agent in Oregon, Sarah applies her social work and event planning background to ensure she provides exceptional service to each client. She is an excellent listener who is highly proficient at finding resources and offers sound advice.
With 2 school age children, she has thorough knowledge of the surrounding school districts including charter and option schools. When she is not working, volunteering or chasing after her lovable, naughty labradoodles – you will probably find her cheering on her kids at the ball field.
Pam Knowles - Executive Committee
Pam Knowles is an Oregon native and a Portland businesswoman. Her love of baseball started when she would play ball with her cousins (20 boy cousins!) and later played intramural softball in college and catch with her sons, who played little league. She loves to watch baseball and enjoys trips to Arizona and Florida for spring training. She believes in the power of team sports in the development of young people and is excited to help grow Friends of Baseball.
Pam earned a Bachelor of Science in History and Education from Oregon State University and law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School. She was a partner at Davis Wright Tremaine, COO and General Counsel at the Portland Business Alliance, ED for the Oregon Commission on Judicial Disability and the ED of Industry Relations at the OSU College of Business. Pam was elected to the Portland Public Schools Board of Directors and served from 2009-2017 including 4 years as chair. Pam is currently advising businesses (non-profit and for-profit) on organizational transitions and development, governance and strategic planning.
Pam is married to David Knowles and they have three grown sons.
Pam Knowles is an Oregon native and a Portland businesswoman. Her love of baseball started when she would play ball with her cousins (20 boy cousins!) and later played intramural softball in college and catch with her sons, who played little league. She loves to watch baseball and enjoys trips to Arizona and Florida for spring training. She believes in the power of team sports in the development of young people and is excited to help grow Friends of Baseball.
Pam earned a Bachelor of Science in History and Education from Oregon State University and law degree from Lewis and Clark Law School. She was a partner at Davis Wright Tremaine, COO and General Counsel at the Portland Business Alliance, ED for the Oregon Commission on Judicial Disability and the ED of Industry Relations at the OSU College of Business. Pam was elected to the Portland Public Schools Board of Directors and served from 2009-2017 including 4 years as chair. Pam is currently advising businesses (non-profit and for-profit) on organizational transitions and development, governance and strategic planning.
Pam is married to David Knowles and they have three grown sons.
Tiffany Dempsey - Board Member
Tiffany was born and raised in Welsh, Louisiana , then later mid-grade school she and her parents transitioned to the deep heart of Texas. Tiffany is a proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University, a historical black college in Prairie View, Texas and a member of the nationally known organization of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. founded by college-educated women dedicated to public service with an emphasis on programs that assist the African American community. Now 26yrs later, she resides in Portland, OR with her husband and two sons. She’s the co-founder and leader of the 1st Intel Oregon "Historically Black Colleges and Universities" alumni special interest group annually supports several community events geared towards the education and promotion of attendance at HBCUs. Tiffany’s son Emmanuel “Manny” partnered with Baseballism x FOB creating his original art for the underbill honoring the 100th anniversary of Negro League baseball. When she’s not busy managing global regulatory transitions at Intel and being a momager of her 14yr. old sons’ creative arts business she can be found performing “The National Anthem” at professional sporting events (i.e. Portland Trail Blazers, Portland Timbers, Portland Thorns and Hillsboro Hops).
Tiffany was born and raised in Welsh, Louisiana , then later mid-grade school she and her parents transitioned to the deep heart of Texas. Tiffany is a proud graduate of Prairie View A&M University, a historical black college in Prairie View, Texas and a member of the nationally known organization of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. founded by college-educated women dedicated to public service with an emphasis on programs that assist the African American community. Now 26yrs later, she resides in Portland, OR with her husband and two sons. She’s the co-founder and leader of the 1st Intel Oregon "Historically Black Colleges and Universities" alumni special interest group annually supports several community events geared towards the education and promotion of attendance at HBCUs. Tiffany’s son Emmanuel “Manny” partnered with Baseballism x FOB creating his original art for the underbill honoring the 100th anniversary of Negro League baseball. When she’s not busy managing global regulatory transitions at Intel and being a momager of her 14yr. old sons’ creative arts business she can be found performing “The National Anthem” at professional sporting events (i.e. Portland Trail Blazers, Portland Timbers, Portland Thorns and Hillsboro Hops).
Michael Yudhishthu - Board Member
Mike has been a long-time fan of baseball since he first saw the New York Yankees play in their original stadium in the Bronx. He fondly remembers how his coaches helped him grow in his baseball knowledge and as a person in his teenage years. Mike’s passion for baseball continued while attending University of Florida (UF). As a college student, he spent many hours watching free college baseball games while studying in the stands. Mike graduated from UF with a degree in Chemical Engineering, which has eventually led him to working for Nike in Air Sole manufacturing. Working for Nike has given him an unique perspective on sport and the value of sport for the youth in our community. He feels that our youth participating in sport teaches them the importance of working on a team. These boys and girls are our future community members and leaders, coaches, sports advocates, and business leaders. Mike and his wife Carla have raised 2 boys playing baseball for most of their youth. Mike has served on Wilshire Riverside LL board, Grant Youth Baseball board, and has spent the last 8 years coaching baseball in the local community.
Mike has been a long-time fan of baseball since he first saw the New York Yankees play in their original stadium in the Bronx. He fondly remembers how his coaches helped him grow in his baseball knowledge and as a person in his teenage years. Mike’s passion for baseball continued while attending University of Florida (UF). As a college student, he spent many hours watching free college baseball games while studying in the stands. Mike graduated from UF with a degree in Chemical Engineering, which has eventually led him to working for Nike in Air Sole manufacturing. Working for Nike has given him an unique perspective on sport and the value of sport for the youth in our community. He feels that our youth participating in sport teaches them the importance of working on a team. These boys and girls are our future community members and leaders, coaches, sports advocates, and business leaders. Mike and his wife Carla have raised 2 boys playing baseball for most of their youth. Mike has served on Wilshire Riverside LL board, Grant Youth Baseball board, and has spent the last 8 years coaching baseball in the local community.
Donell Morgan - Board Member
As a collegiate athlete, Donell experienced firsthand the value of mentoring and coaching. After a successful basketball career that took him around the globe, Donell returned to the United States to pay that positive support forward by becoming a coach and mentor at one of the most successful community colleges in Oregon. For more than a decade, he inspired his players and students to push themselves toward their goals. Working with at-risk youth and families on a deeper level inspired his own transition into the nonprofit field, where he has continued to engage and create life-changing positive relationships. An energetic and engaging speaker, Donell has sought to develop the next generation of leaders that will transform communities.
As a collegiate athlete, Donell experienced firsthand the value of mentoring and coaching. After a successful basketball career that took him around the globe, Donell returned to the United States to pay that positive support forward by becoming a coach and mentor at one of the most successful community colleges in Oregon. For more than a decade, he inspired his players and students to push themselves toward their goals. Working with at-risk youth and families on a deeper level inspired his own transition into the nonprofit field, where he has continued to engage and create life-changing positive relationships. An energetic and engaging speaker, Donell has sought to develop the next generation of leaders that will transform communities.
JD Kiggins - Program Committee
Emeritus Board
Keenan Longcor (Founder) wrapped up a very brief college experience, choosing instead to establish his own sales and marketing company. The company grew to encompass a five-state area in the Pacific Northwest, making it one of his industry’s largest sales agencies in the region. His successful business strategies became a springboard for his publication of INTERPERSONAL, A Sales And Management Letter, as well as his career as a management consultant.
“Of all my years in business, with all its many rewards, my fondest memories are not business related, but of being with my son on one of our baseball road trips. We were following his team, following our favorite professional team, all the while chasing the moment… and the conversations found through our shared love of the game.”
“Of all my years in business, with all its many rewards, my fondest memories are not business related, but of being with my son on one of our baseball road trips. We were following his team, following our favorite professional team, all the while chasing the moment… and the conversations found through our shared love of the game.”
Rakeem Washington - Past Board Member
Rakeem is a Portland native and former Peninsula Little Leaguer. Baseball was cherished in his family—his father was a long-time coach and is in the Portland Interscholastic League Hall of Fame. His mother kept score for hundreds of little league and high school games while also fueling dozens of his teammates every weekend with an innumerable amount of pancakes. As a child, he and his siblings and cousins spent summers playing Wiffle ball in numerous Concordia neighborhood backyards. After lettering for four years at Benson High School, Rakeem played for two years at the College of the Redwoods followed by two more years at Pacific University. His connection continued as a coach for several summers, most recently in 2013 with Roosevelt High School.
Rakeem is a 2008 graduate of Lewis and Clark Law School and practiced as a juvenile delinquency and child welfare attorney for several years before taking a position with Portland Public Schools working on equity issues in school discipline. He is currently working in the child welfare arena with the Oregon Judicial Department and is also teaching in the University Studies Department at Portland State University. He continues his support of the community as the Executive Director of the Portland Observer Newspaper, the longest running minority publication on the west coast.
Rakeem is a Portland native and former Peninsula Little Leaguer. Baseball was cherished in his family—his father was a long-time coach and is in the Portland Interscholastic League Hall of Fame. His mother kept score for hundreds of little league and high school games while also fueling dozens of his teammates every weekend with an innumerable amount of pancakes. As a child, he and his siblings and cousins spent summers playing Wiffle ball in numerous Concordia neighborhood backyards. After lettering for four years at Benson High School, Rakeem played for two years at the College of the Redwoods followed by two more years at Pacific University. His connection continued as a coach for several summers, most recently in 2013 with Roosevelt High School.
Rakeem is a 2008 graduate of Lewis and Clark Law School and practiced as a juvenile delinquency and child welfare attorney for several years before taking a position with Portland Public Schools working on equity issues in school discipline. He is currently working in the child welfare arena with the Oregon Judicial Department and is also teaching in the University Studies Department at Portland State University. He continues his support of the community as the Executive Director of the Portland Observer Newspaper, the longest running minority publication on the west coast.
Staff
Gerald Bolden - Mentor/Coach & Program Leader
Gerald Bolden is best known for his professional play in the Frontier League on the Johnstown Steal and Richmond Roosters however he has had a long and varied career. He began at the age of 6 to profess a love of the sport being inspired by his father’s participation on a softball team. He began with T-ball then moved on to Little League and playing on the All-Star team.
He went on to play three years of varsity baseball at Benson High School in Portland, Oregon, and a year at Cañada Junior College in California. After returning to Portland, he played on Taylor Electric, a team in the Pacific International League. From 2000 - 2004 he traveled to coach for 5 months out of the year in London, England and in South Africa spending 2 ½ months in each country. In 2002, he coached the Great Britain National Team.
Gerald Bolden is best known for his professional play in the Frontier League on the Johnstown Steal and Richmond Roosters however he has had a long and varied career. He began at the age of 6 to profess a love of the sport being inspired by his father’s participation on a softball team. He began with T-ball then moved on to Little League and playing on the All-Star team.
He went on to play three years of varsity baseball at Benson High School in Portland, Oregon, and a year at Cañada Junior College in California. After returning to Portland, he played on Taylor Electric, a team in the Pacific International League. From 2000 - 2004 he traveled to coach for 5 months out of the year in London, England and in South Africa spending 2 ½ months in each country. In 2002, he coached the Great Britain National Team.
Molly Newcomer - Programs Administrator
Molly grew up in San Francisco, playing school yard kickball, Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) basketball, and intensely competitive backyard whiffle ball. Her dad, a high school basketball coach, fostered an early love for team sports and taught the importance of sportsmanship, perseverance, and maintaining a positive attitude. Molly studied child development at Stanford University, where she met her future husband playing intramural basketball. They have lived in Portland for 25 years and are starting to get used to the rain. Their two children have kept them busy participating on innumerable youth soccer, softball, baseball, and basketball teams. A former elementary school teacher, Molly has also enjoyed coaching and organizing youth basketball programs in northeast Portland. She is excited to be joining Friends of Baseball and helping create greater access to youth sports for all kids.
Molly grew up in San Francisco, playing school yard kickball, Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) basketball, and intensely competitive backyard whiffle ball. Her dad, a high school basketball coach, fostered an early love for team sports and taught the importance of sportsmanship, perseverance, and maintaining a positive attitude. Molly studied child development at Stanford University, where she met her future husband playing intramural basketball. They have lived in Portland for 25 years and are starting to get used to the rain. Their two children have kept them busy participating on innumerable youth soccer, softball, baseball, and basketball teams. A former elementary school teacher, Molly has also enjoyed coaching and organizing youth basketball programs in northeast Portland. She is excited to be joining Friends of Baseball and helping create greater access to youth sports for all kids.
Wonjin Lee - Coach
Won grew up in Busan, South Korea playing sandlot baseball at the age of 10. His love for baseball grew over the years as he started learning from his step father when he was in middle school. He started to play for a team during his college years at Tongmyong University while volunteering as a coach at his local elementary. During that time he also played for the O2 Independent League where he was one of the top hitters. Won has since moved to Portland after meeting his wife, and now enjoys meeting new people through baseball and learning how to play "American" baseball.
Won grew up in Busan, South Korea playing sandlot baseball at the age of 10. His love for baseball grew over the years as he started learning from his step father when he was in middle school. He started to play for a team during his college years at Tongmyong University while volunteering as a coach at his local elementary. During that time he also played for the O2 Independent League where he was one of the top hitters. Won has since moved to Portland after meeting his wife, and now enjoys meeting new people through baseball and learning how to play "American" baseball.
Jayden Henderson - Full Count RBI Research & Development Assistant
Jayden Henderson’s baseball journey started with the Peninsula Little League’s T-Ball team called “The Alarm Tracks," located in N Portland. He played throughout elementary school and after a short hiatus from the game in middle school, Jayden suited up once again to play for the Jefferson Democrats. Jayden is now an assistant coach for Jefferson High School baseball team, and he is excited to see what the future has in store.
Jayden Henderson’s baseball journey started with the Peninsula Little League’s T-Ball team called “The Alarm Tracks," located in N Portland. He played throughout elementary school and after a short hiatus from the game in middle school, Jayden suited up once again to play for the Jefferson Democrats. Jayden is now an assistant coach for Jefferson High School baseball team, and he is excited to see what the future has in store.
Ray Watterson - Coach
Born and raised in Portland, Oregon Ray's baseball career began very early while playing with a Sportsmen's Tee-ball team when he was 5 to 6 years old. Ray and his brother were the first and second members to become official ball players for the Sportsmen's Little League, which later became Peninsula Park Little League. After playing with the League up until Senior ball and right before his Freshman year of High School, Ray received his first Assistant Coaching position with Peninsula Parks Junior Baseball team. He is now the Head Coach of Benson High Schools Baseball program and is in the process of rebuilding it one step and one student at a time.
Born and raised in Portland, Oregon Ray's baseball career began very early while playing with a Sportsmen's Tee-ball team when he was 5 to 6 years old. Ray and his brother were the first and second members to become official ball players for the Sportsmen's Little League, which later became Peninsula Park Little League. After playing with the League up until Senior ball and right before his Freshman year of High School, Ray received his first Assistant Coaching position with Peninsula Parks Junior Baseball team. He is now the Head Coach of Benson High Schools Baseball program and is in the process of rebuilding it one step and one student at a time.
Sammy DiMinno - VISTA Marketing & Communications Ambassador
Sammy grew up in San Diego, CA where she grew up going to Padres games and found a love for the game of baseball. Sammy was an All Star Cheerleader and found a home and other family through the sport. Cheer practice became a place of bonding with her teammates and a place for personal growth. During College and High School, Sammy worked at an elementary school with Kindergarten and First Graders and found a love for working with kids in her local community. Sammy is beyond excited to be joining Friends of Baseball as a full year vista to helping create greater access to youth sports for all kids in the community.
Sammy grew up in San Diego, CA where she grew up going to Padres games and found a love for the game of baseball. Sammy was an All Star Cheerleader and found a home and other family through the sport. Cheer practice became a place of bonding with her teammates and a place for personal growth. During College and High School, Sammy worked at an elementary school with Kindergarten and First Graders and found a love for working with kids in her local community. Sammy is beyond excited to be joining Friends of Baseball as a full year vista to helping create greater access to youth sports for all kids in the community.
Kemoni Bailey - VISTA Community Events Ambassador
Hitting, running, and sliding bases is truly in Kemoni's blood. Her love for baseball & softball came early from her Great Grandfather Hugh William Mosley of the Kansas City Monarchs. Kemoni's grandfather, Hugh Mosley, would sit her down and tell her all the great things he did. As his first granddaughter, the love for the game of baseball rubbed off on her at a young age. Kemoni's grandfather and father always encouraged her to follow her dreams and playing softball was one of them. With Friends of Baseball, Kemoni looks forward to bringing kids together and changing their lives, the way the game has changed hers.
Hitting, running, and sliding bases is truly in Kemoni's blood. Her love for baseball & softball came early from her Great Grandfather Hugh William Mosley of the Kansas City Monarchs. Kemoni's grandfather, Hugh Mosley, would sit her down and tell her all the great things he did. As his first granddaughter, the love for the game of baseball rubbed off on her at a young age. Kemoni's grandfather and father always encouraged her to follow her dreams and playing softball was one of them. With Friends of Baseball, Kemoni looks forward to bringing kids together and changing their lives, the way the game has changed hers.