A recent interview with Coach Tim Gotzler, Head Baseball Coach Menomonee Falls High School and VP Player Development, Falls Jr Phoenix Baseball

Q: What are your thoughts on youth baseball in Menomonee Falls for players in grade school and middle school?

A: Menomonee Falls has a rich baseball history and success at the older levels begins with the programs for the youth. The Menomonee Falls Little League is one of the largest in the state and the Jr Phoenix Organization (formerly Jr Indians) has been providing opportunities for select baseball since 1995.

Q: As the High School Varsity Coach, why are you a member of the Jr Phoenix Board of Directors?

A: The Jr Phoenix purpose is to be a feeder program for the High School. As VP of Player Development for the Jr Phoenix I can share our High School concepts, drills, techniques and terminology with the coaches in the program. This not only helps the players be successful while in the Jr Phoenix program, it also helps players get off to a fast start when they get to Menomonee Falls High School Baseball. 

Q: What are some of the recent developments for the Jr Phoenix program?

A: In 2020 we signed a long-term lease for an over 6,000 square foot facility in Menomonee Falls. We've installed turf and 3 retractable netted cages for batting and pitching, which can be opened up for a large fielding area. Most recently the organization invested in Hit Trax which is a state-of-the-art digital training aid that provides feedback on a hitter's exit velocity, launch angle and more.

Q: How many teams are in the organization and is it expensive to join?

A: Our goal is to have up to two teams of 11 players each, from second through eighth grade. The program relies entirely on volunteers and is a not-for-profit organization. Because of this the fees associated with the program are actually much lower than cost of other youth baseball programs. And, the organization is community focused striving to field as many roster spots as possible with Menomonee Falls School District students and residents.

Q: How can families learn more about the Jr Phoenix Baseball Program?

A: We will be holding an open house and free instruction on April 10th for kids in 1st & 2nd grade, but anyone who registers in advance is welcome to come and see the facility. More information is available at www.mfjpbaseball.com, including tryout information for next season.