Joe Taylor - General Manager & Head Instructor
jtaylor@nwstar.net or 503-380-5685

Joe was a 3 year letterwinner at Lewis & Clark College as a pitcher and infielder. Originally from the Seattle area, Joe played one year at Green River CC in Auburn, WA before transfering to LC. Joe is the primary instructor for NW Star Academy and handles all aspects of the game: hitting, pitching, fielding, catching, and speed and agility. A lot of video training is used to help players see themselves and what changes they need to make. Video training is one of the best ways to improve and track skill development. Joe uses Right View Pro which also allows players to be compared to professional MLB swings.

Brad Neffendorf - Head Coach 18U Team

Brad is the head coach of the NW Star Academy 18U team which he lead to a 40-14 record in 2007. Brad graduated from Westview HS and played 2 years at Clackamas CC. Brad was a pitcher and was named to the NWAACC Sophomore Showcase game. Brad has been the JV coach at Clackamas HS, head coach of the Portland Vandals, and most recently as the pitching coach at Mt. Hood CC. Brad specializes in pitching training. He is also an associate scout with the Florida Marlins.

Mick Ellett - Assistant Coach 18U Team

Mick is an assistant coach with the NW Star Academy 18U team and is the pitching coach at Clackamas CC. Mick has an extensive coaching background at both the high school and collegiate level. He has coached at Barlow HS, David Douglas HS, the Aloha Knights, the Portland Kings, and the NW Star Academy collegiate team. Mick pitched at Portland State University for hall of fame coach Jack Dunn. Mick specializes in pitching training.

Special Instructors

NW Star Academy also utilizes help from special instructors during our camps and clinics. These instructors include area scouts, college coaches, college players, and professional players.