November 9 2026 | By: Jennifer Stitt in For Love of the Game

Why Bringing George Kottaras to FOD Is Such an Exciting Next Chapter

When I first met George Kottaras, he came out to one of our summer camps to see what Field of Dreams was all about. My first impression was simple: he was down to earth, easy to talk to, and genuinely interested in what we were doing.

Over the next few weeks, George spent time at our Pro Camps, worked with some of our players in private lessons, and got a feel for how we operate. It gave him an opportunity to experience FOD firsthand, and it gave me an opportunity to see him in action. It was exciting to see how his experience and approach with the kids could complement what we’ve already built at FOD, and to start thinking about the possibilities of where we could take things.

A Story That Embodies What We Believe In

George grew up locally, played baseball in the same communities where many of our campers are growing up today, and went on to spend seven seasons in Major League Baseball.

For so many young players, reaching the big leagues is the ultimate dream. It’s what they imagine when they’re playing catch in their backyards or stepping up to the plate at camp. And now, here’s someone who actually did it.

When I founded Field of Dreams 16 years ago, I wanted to create an environment where kids could develop their skills, build confidence, and believe in themselves. George’s journey represents so much of what we’ve always stood for.

Having someone with that experience working directly with our players is an incredible opportunity. Not simply because of where he’s played, but because of what he can teach them about the game, the work involved, and pursuing something you’re passionate about. But over the past few months working together, I’ve quickly learned, his playing career is only part of what he brings to FOD.

More Than Just an MLB Player

One thing that’s become especially clear these past few months is George’s natural ability to connect with kids. I’ve always believed that being a great player and being a great instructor are two very different things. Teaching requires patience, communication, creativity, and an understanding that every child learns differently.

George brings those qualities to the field. He’s approachable, patient, and genuinely invested in helping players improve. He can take complicated concepts and explain them in ways that young players can understand and apply.

At Field of Dreams, we’ve always believed that every player deserves knowledgeable, passionate instruction, whether they’re learning the fundamentals for the first time or working toward competing at an elite level.

George shares that philosophy, and it’s one of the reasons I’m so excited about what we can build together.

Nearly 30 Years Around Baseball, and I’m Still Learning… and so are all of our coaches

I’ve spent nearly 30 years playing, coaching, teaching, and learning the game of baseball. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible coaches and instructors, each of whom has helped shape the coach I am today.

I’ve always believed that great coaches never stop learning. No matter how much experience you have, there’s always another perspective, another approach, or a different way of teaching something that can make you better.

What has impressed me most is his ability to take the knowledge he’s gained throughout his professional career and translate it into effective instruction. The way he breaks down mechanics, introduces drills, and explains complex movements brings a fresh perspective to skills we’ve been teaching for years.

What’s been equally rewarding is seeing the enthusiasm from our coaching staff. Our instructors are eager to work alongside George, ask questions, exchange ideas, and continue developing their own knowledge of the game.

That’s what makes this opportunity so valuable. His experience doesn’t just benefit the players he works with directly. It has the potential to strengthen our entire coaching team and elevate the programs we offer.

Building on 16 Years of Field of Dreams

I’ve spent the past 16 years building Field of Dreams into an organization I’m incredibly proud of. We’ve expanded our programs, grown into new communities, developed an outstanding coaching staff, and worked with thousands of young children. None of that happens without the instructors, staff, families, and players who have been part of this journey.

And while I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished, I’ve never wanted to become complacent. I want Field of Dreams to continue evolving, not just in size, but in the quality of instruction we provide and the opportunities we create. That’s what makes this next chapter so exciting.

We’re bringing together 16 years of experience building programs, developing players, and creating a strong baseball community with the knowledge and perspective of someone who has competed at the highest level of the game. There is tremendous potential in that combination, both for our players and for our entire organization.

We have some exciting ideas and big plans for the future. And while we’re building on everything that has made Field of Dreams special, we’re also opening the door to new opportunities for the next generation of players.

After 16 years, I’m incredibly excited about what comes next.

Jennifer