216 Philosophy
At 216 Academy, we don’t just create players — we build ballplayers. And we do it differently.
Most programs overload kids with reps and call it development. But 200 bad swings in practice turn into 20 strikeouts when it matters. That’s not development — that’s repetition without purpose.
It’s not the team coach’s fault. Coaching 12 kids at once is tough. So we fill the gap.
Built by an MLB sports science coach, our training system teaches the right fundamentals, the right way, every time.
Because 20 coached, intentional swings in our facility turn into 200 productive plate appearances on the field.
Our staff of elite high school, college, and former MiLB players are trained to teach fundamentals that stick—hitting, pitching, fielding, and athletic development for athletes ages 8–14.
If you want your athlete to train with purpose, build confidence, and learn the game the right way…
you’re in the right place.
216 Academy — Better reps. Better players
Our Mission:
To develop skilled, athletic, and confident young athletes through age-appropriate instruction, skill development, and a quality-over-quantity training philosophy.
Train smarter. Train with 216.
Phil Stotter, founder of 216 Academy, a premier diamond sports program at the Hudson Field House, brings a career of professional baseball experience to youth athlete development. A former player and professional coach, Stotter has worked with five MLB organizations, most recently serving in Sports Science and Player Development for the Cincinnati Reds, where he supported the growth of superstar talents like Elly De La Cruz and Sal Stewart.
Stotter’s mission is local and personal: to help youth athletes prepare for the next level, whether that’s high school, college recruitment, or competitive travel ball. He has built a team of elite high school, college, and former MiLB players who lead group sessions and camps at the Field House, fostering a learning environment grounded in mentorship and high-level experience. This approach has proven highly effective in guiding both the personal and physical development of young athletes.
As a father of four young athletes, Stotter knows the importance of quality coaching, which can be difficult to find at the youth level. That’s why 216 Academy is committed to making elite instruction affordable. Programs are structured in 6-week training blocks, starting with an initial player assessment and ending with progress evaluations and individualized development planning.
For youth athletes seeking MLB-quality training at a youth-friendly price, 216 Academy offers group sessions and camps designed to elevate skills, confidence, and performance. Sign up today!
Small group training is designed for 4 to 6 players of similar age and skill level, providing focused, personalized instruction. These sessions are structured in 6-week blocks, with one session per week, allowing players to develop skills progressively. Each block begins with an initial player assessment and concludes with progress reporting and development planning. Players are encouraged to continue with the same program or explore additional development opportunities, ensuring ongoing growth. Age levels include 8u-14u.
Players receive exceptional, professional-level training, while parents and players benefit from comprehensive development reporting, tracking progress and highlighting areas for continued improvement.
Explore current training programs:
216 Academy camps are intensive, skill-focused programs led by former professional and elite-level players. Camps offer an immersive training experience, combining high-level instruction, mentorship, and professional sports science techniques. These sessions are perfect for players looking to accelerate their development, refine specific skills, and gain exposure to the methods used at higher levels. Like small group training, camps emphasize progress tracking and personalized feedback, helping each athlete reach their full potential.
Thanks for considering 216 Academy for your baseball or softball training.
Please fill out the 216 Academy Preregistration form so that we can help you get scheduled for your training sessions and camps.
