Coach Mike Welch

Michael Welch enters his first season with the NEA Wildcats and brings with him positive energy and a fundamentals-first approach to the 9U American team. Michael played baseball through middle school and later in adult leagues, giving him a well-rounded understanding of the game from both developmental and competitive perspectives.

Michael has coached youth baseball for four years. His coaching philosophy centers on building strong fundamentals, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship, and keeping the game fun and positive for every player.

What Michael enjoys most is watching practice translate into confident, well-executed plays during games. He believes understanding each athlete’s level is key to helping them learn and grow in ways that make sense to them. As a coach, he strives to be positive, fair, and firm when needed, encouraging players to communicate, support one another, and lift up teammates through teamwork and shared effort.

One of Michael’s favorite moments came from noticing a timid player struggling at the plate—who wasn’t wearing his glasses while batting. After finding a comfortable way for him to wear them with his helmet, the player stepped up the next at-bat and lined the first pitch to left field. For Michael, moments like that highlight the impact small adjustments and encouragement can make.

Off the field, Michael works in renewable energy with a focus on solar. He enjoys spending time with his wife and two children and staying active through fishing, camping, golfing, skiing, boating, men’s softball, and traveling. Fun fact: he throws a pretty good knuckleball.