Train with the Carolina Blue Claws in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Apply NowThe Carolina Blue Claws are proud members of the prestigious Carolina Rays Collegiate Academy, dedicated to developing elite post-graduate baseball talent.
Our mission is clear: to help post-grad players master the fundamentals of baseball, build exceptional teamwork skills, and develop the leadership qualities that define successful athletes.
We educate our athletes on both the physical and mental tools needed to succeed at the next level, whether that's college baseball, professional opportunities, or beyond. At the Blue Claws, we don't just train players—we transform them into complete athletes ready to excel in competitive environments.
A comprehensive approach to baseball excellence
Daily workouts designed to maximize your potential, including position-specific drills, advanced batting techniques, and intensive strength and conditioning programs. Our structured training regimen ensures every player develops the physical tools needed for the next level.
Experience real competition with dozens of games against top college programs and elite travel teams throughout the season. Our demanding schedule prepares you for the intensity and pressure of competitive baseball at any level.
Receive personalized attention with comprehensive film study, data-driven performance feedback, and customized development plans tailored to your unique strengths and areas for improvement. Every player gets a roadmap to success.
Elite coaches with professional and collegiate experience
Founder & Head Coach
8-Year Professional Playing Career | Atlanta Braves Organization
Willie James brings an impressive 8-year professional playing career to the Blue Claws. Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 2002 First-Year Player Draft, Willie spent five seasons in the Braves organization, making his professional debut in the Gulf Coast Rookie League and competing for championship teams including the 2003 South Atlantic League Champion Rome Braves.
After his time with the Braves, Willie continued his playing career in independent baseball, including winning the 2006 American Association League Championship with the Quebec Capitales and the 2009 United League Championship with the Amarillo Dillas. As a flashy infielder with above-average speed and arm, Willie excelled at second base, shortstop, and third base throughout his career.
A native of Moreno Valley, CA, Willie attended Arizona Western Community College where he batted .355 as a freshman and led the team with 35 stolen bases, earning Rookie of the Year honors. He continued his collegiate career at Purdue University under former Arizona State coach Doug Schrieber before pursuing his professional dreams.
Since retiring in 2009, Willie has dedicated himself to developing baseball talent in the Myrtle Beach area for over 15 years, touching countless lives and helping players achieve their dreams of playing college baseball. Carolina Elite Sports and the Carolina Rays were born from Willie's vision of creating opportunities through hard work and dedication.
Myrtle Beach Youth Director
College World Series Competitor | Perfect Game Coach
Hailing from Ohio, Zac was a standout multi-sport athlete earning four varsity letters in both basketball (1000-point scorer) and baseball. In baseball, he earned OVAC Player of the Year, First Team All Eastern District, MVP of the All-Star game, and First Team All Ohio honors.
Zac continued his baseball journey at Potomac State College as a starting pitcher, leading his team to the College World Series. For the past three years, he has been integral to the Carolina Rays coaching staff and has led teams in prestigious events including the Perfect Game All-State Tournament, Top Gun All-American Games, and USSSA All-State and Area Code Games.
Zac's passion lies in using baseball to create opportunities and helping young players develop their skills to reach the next level.
Pitching Coach
Chicago Cubs Organization | Venezuelan League Pitcher
From San Antonio De Los Altos, Venezuela, Enrique was signed by the Chicago Cubs at age 17 and pitched in their organization from 2013-2019. During winter seasons, he was a starting pitcher for Leones de Caracas in the Venezuelan League and represented Venezuela in the 2012 World Baseball Championships, earning the Top Athlete Award in 2018.
Since 2020, Enrique has concentrated on sharing his love of baseball with younger players. He has served as pitching coach for Myrtle Beach High School JV baseball and was an assistant Varsity coach and guest instructor for travel teams in Virginia and South Carolina.
Enrique brings professional-level pitching expertise and a passion for player development to the Carolina Rays organization.
Coach
SUNY Plattsburgh | Team Captain & Commissioner
Raised in Scotia, New York, Joseph played three years of Varsity baseball at Scotia Glenville High School. He continued at Schenectady County Community College (SCCC) where he served as Team Captain in his second year while also playing semi-professional Ice Hockey with the Albany Junior River Rats.
Joseph transferred to SUNY Plattsburgh to continue his baseball career and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in 2009. He was later voted Commissioner of the Men's Adult Baseball League (MABL) in upstate New York for summer 2010 and served as assistant coach at SCCC.
Joseph brings leadership experience and a deep understanding of player development from his diverse baseball background.
Infield & Baseball IQ Coach
Coastal Carolina Announcer | 6+ Years with Carolina Elite
With nearly 6 years at Carolina Elite Sports, Coach DJ specializes in infield play and baseball IQ/mental approach. He was named captain of both his Varsity HS and College programs in Washingtonville and Plattsburgh, NY, and received the prestigious Coach's Award finishing his collegiate career in 2012.
Undrafted post-college, DJ played 2 seasons in the Can-Am Summer Leagues out of New Jersey. He currently head coaches one of the Rays 10u teams but works with athletes across all age groups regularly.
Outside of coaching, DJ is the announcer for the Coastal Carolina baseball team and an avid sports card collector.
Coach
MiLB Umpire | ACC Conference Official
Jose's baseball journey began in New Jersey at Union City High School and Bergen Community College where he was a two-year starter. His passion for the game extended to summer ball with the Carolina Shores CBL in Myrtle Beach.
In 2018, Jose made Myrtle Beach his home to pursue professional baseball officiating. Hired by MiLB in 2020, he worked two seasons before transitioning to Division 1 baseball where he continues as an ACC Conference Umpire.
Coach Polanco is passionate about teaching the mental and physical aspects of the game, sharing his extensive knowledge with youth players.
The Blue Claws coaching staff brings a higher level of baseball experience and knowledge to every practice, game, and development session. With professional playing experience, championship pedigree, and years of successful player development, our coaches are dedicated to creating an environment where players can thrive, learn, and push beyond their perceived limitations.
Learn from coaches who played at the highest levels of baseball
Track record of helping players reach college and professional levels
Coaches with championship experience at multiple levels
Individual mentorship tailored to each player's development needs
Train and live like a professional
Our indoor training facility features cutting-edge equipment and technology to support year-round development. From batting cages with high-speed cameras to pitching labs and strength training equipment, you'll have access to everything needed to reach peak performance.
Beyond our indoor facility, players train at the renowned Ripken Experience in Myrtle Beach—professional-grade fields designed to replicate the conditions and quality of collegiate and professional baseball environments.
Live steps from the beach in modern, comfortable student housing designed for athletes. Our accommodations provide the perfect balance of community living and personal space, allowing you to focus on baseball while enjoying the coastal lifestyle.
With an average temperature of 73°F and 215 sunny days per year, Myrtle Beach offers the ideal climate for year-round baseball training and beach living. The mild weather ensures you can train outdoors consistently while enjoying everything the coast has to offer.
The Grand Strand comprises more than 60 miles of sandy beaches, creating an unparalleled backdrop for your baseball journey. Myrtle Beach isn't just about training—it's about experiencing life in one of America's most vibrant coastal communities.
When you're not on the field, enjoy world-class golf courses, exciting entertainment venues, premier shopping destinations, and diverse dining options. From boardwalk attractions to live music and cultural experiences, there's always something to explore.
Endless sandy shores to explore
Dozens of championship courses
Fresh seafood and diverse cuisine
Live shows, attractions, and nightlife
Experience the perfect blend of elite baseball development and coastal living. At the Blue Claws, you'll train hard, compete fiercely, and enjoy the journey every step of the way.
Join players from across the nation who are choosing the Carolina Blue Claws to take their baseball careers to the next level. Whether you're looking to play college ball, pursue professional opportunities, or simply become the best player you can be, we're here to help you achieve your goals.
The journey to elite baseball starts here. Are you ready?
Apply NowQuestions? Email us at willie@carolinaelitesports.com