Jopa's Sports Academy is your Hillsborough, NJ home for Baseball & Softball Lessons
Jose Padilla
Hello, I'm Jose Padilla, and my love for baseball began at a young age. Growing up, baseball became my greatest commitment. During my at-bats, my dad would encourage me with the words, 'Dalé Duró,' which means 'Hit it hard' in Spanish. But how could I achieve that?
Initially, I was just a student trying to grasp the intricacies of the game. However, when I reached college, I encountered two remarkable individuals who taught me that talent alone wasn't enough. They instilled in me the proper techniques that have allowed me to perform at my best to this day. This journey further fueled my dedication and passion for the game of baseball, propelling me to reach new heights.
For more than 5 years, I have been sharing my dedication and passion through training ball players ranging from ages 5 to college level. My goal is to impart that same dedication and passion to you.
Based in Hillsborough, NJ, we offer batting, fielding, pitching, throwing, and catching lessons that will unlock the maximum potential of your baseball or softball game. With our guidance, we can work together to enhance your skills and take your performance to the next level.
Join us in this journey as we strive for excellence and uncover the boundless possibilities that lie within your game.
Noah Cheskis
My name is Noah Cheskis, and my love for baseball has been a lifelong affair. From a young age, I've harbored an insatiable passion for the sport and an unyielding desire to absorb every nugget of knowledge that could help me grow as a player. When my playing days eventually came to an end, I found myself pondering, 'Does this mean my journey with baseball is over?' At first, it seemed that way.
For nearly two years, I distanced myself from all things baseball. Then, I asked myself, 'Why should I abandon a passion that has always defined a part of me?' and 'How can I now impart the wisdom I've garnered over the years?'
Gratefully, the guidance of former coaches and mentors illuminated my path, providing a deeper understanding of the game I thought I knew so well. My appreciation and enthusiasm for this complicated yet simple game of baseball flourished, and I realized I couldn't stay away.
Over the past two-plus years, I've had the privilege of coaching young athletes ranging from 8-year-olds to high schoolers. It's the unwavering passion and dedication I hold for this game that I find most rewarding to share and teach.
Liam Gallagher
Hi, I'm Liam Gallagher, and baseball has been a part of my life since I was just four years old. As a Junior in 2023, I had the privilege of starting at both second base and shortstop for my high school team. I was recognized as Rookie of the Year in addition to being selected for 2nd Team All-Conference and the Central Jersey All-Area Team. After high school, I will be continuing my baseball career playing for Eastern University.
As I progress through the ranks of baseball, I find myself delving deeper into the intricacies of the sport. My current focus is on sharing my knowledge and appreciation for baseball with players of all skill levels. I want to help aspiring athletes build a strong foundation and reach their next level in the game they love.
My passion for baseball was ignited by my grandfather, who instilled in me a love for the sport at a young age. With his and my father's coaching and support, I have had the privilege of growing as a player. Now, I have the opportunity to pass on that same coaching and knowledge to younger players who share the same love and passion for the game. While my playing career will have its limits, my passion for baseball will endure.
My goal is to make a lasting impact on the lives of aspiring athletes and continue to foster my own love for the game. Together, we can strive for excellence and embrace the joy that baseball brings.
Victoria Fantozzi
Hello, I am Victoria Fantozzi, and softball has been an important part of my life since I was 6 years old. I truly fell in love with the game from the first time I played. Not only is softball great for building friendships, it is also a very fast-paced game which helps you grow your confidence as you face and overcome its challenges.
I graduated from Hillsborough High School in 2022, where I was a 3-year Varsity letter winner as a 3B and pitcher. During my junior year, I had the opportunity to be part of the team that won the Central Jersey Group 4 Sectional State Championship and played in the Group 4 State Finals. As a senior, I had the honor of serving as team captain, was named Second Team All-Conference and Honorable Mention All-Area, and helped the team win the Somerset County Championship.
I continue to play in college as a member of the Fairleigh Dickinson University softball team where I pitch and play 3B.
My journey into coaching stems from the incredible coaches I’ve had throughout my career who helped me gain a deeper understanding of the game. I never missed an opportunity to help run camps in high school/college or work with younger teams in my club organizations. This made it clear to me how much I enjoy mentoring and motivating players to build their self-confidence and spread a love for the game.