Coach Joe Pennucci – Proven Winner & Perfect Weekend Warriors Fit
Joe Pennucci, head coach at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) since 2017, has built one of the most respected programs in mid-major college baseball. In 2025, Pennucci led ETSU to a Southern Conference Championship, capping off the best stretch in program history with back-to-back 35+ win seasons and record-setting performances in nearly every offensive category.
In 2024, his team finished 36-20 — the program’s best in over a decade — while setting new records in walks, on-base percentage, runs scored, and home runs. His players collected multiple All-SoCon honors, and Cameron Sisneros was named SoCon Player of the Year with a school-record 86 RBIs. Over his ETSU tenure, Pennucci has developed multiple MLB Draft picks and consistently raised the program's national profile.
Prior to ETSU, Pennucci spent 12 years at Stony Brook, helping lead the Seawolves to four NCAA Regionals and a trip to the 2012 College World Series, with a roster that included several future MLB players. As recruiting coordinator, he helped sign a Top 5 national recruiting class (Baseball America) and built a powerhouse culture.
Why Coach Pennucci Fits the Weekend Warriors Model:
- Championship Pedigree: Fresh off a 2025 SoCon title, he brings a winning mindset and real tournament success.
- Elite Player Development: Focuses on teaching, growth, and individual feedback — all core to the Weekend Warriors experience.
- Positive Leadership: Builds relationships and confidence while holding players to high standards.
- Tournament-Ready Approach: Experienced in high-stakes, short-format baseball — exactly what our program is built around.
Coach Pennucci is more than a coach — he’s a builder of teams, a mentor to players, and a leader who wins the right way. That’s why he embodies what Weekend Warriors is all about.
Coach Tom Caputo – Veteran Leader & Development-Driven Coach
Coach Tom Caputo brings over two decades of high-level coaching experience across NCAA Division I, II, and III baseball, as well as a professional playing career. Since joining St. Joseph’s University – Long Island in 2019, Caputo has helped the program to a 60-42 record and a 37-19 mark in Skyline Conference play, developing 10 All-Region and 13 All-Conference players.
Prior to St. Joe’s, Caputo served as the head coach at Dowling College (2012–2016), where he compiled a 144-99-1 record, led the team to two ECC Tournament titles, three NCAA Division II Regional appearances, and produced multiple All-Americans, including back-to-back ECC Pitchers of the Year. He was a two-time ECC Coach of the Year.
Caputo’s coaching foundation began at Farmingdale State College, where he helped lead the team to three conference championships and a trip to the Division III College World Series.
As a player, Caputo was a Division I standout at Hofstra, where he captained the team and earned All-Conference honors before going on to play three seasons professionally with the Long Island Ducks in the Atlantic League.
Why Coach Caputo Fits the Weekend Warriors Model:
- Extensive Coaching Experience: Proven success at every college level with championship-caliber programs.
- Pitching Development Track Record: Mentored multiple conference Pitchers of the Year and All-Region arms.
- Balanced, Competitive Approach: Prioritizes player growth and team success equally — matching our mission.
- Former Pro Player: Brings real-world insight and credibility to players aiming for higher levels.
A product of Long Island baseball with deep roots in the region and a strong player-first mentality, Coach Caputo brings championship experience, elite teaching, and pro-level perspective to the Weekend Warriors.
🧢 Jim McGowan – Varsity Head Coach
Jim McGowan is the head coach of one of the premier varsity baseball programs on Long Island. In 2025, he led his team to an impressive 22-2 record, continuing a long tradition of excellence built on player development, discipline, and smart baseball. Coach McGowan has earned a reputation as a true leader of young athletes, consistently preparing his players for the next level, both mentally and physically. His teams are known for their fundamentals, energy, and toughness.
⭐ Why He’s Great for the Weekend Warriors:
Coach McGowan brings the kind of structure, experience, and calm leadership that makes him ideal for tournament play. His ability to quickly assess players, communicate clearly, and lead with purpose makes a huge impact over a short weekend. Whether it’s building game plans, managing pitching, or teaching between innings, Jim delivers exactly what the Weekend Warriors are built on: high-level baseball with real coaching value.
🧢 Elliot Robles – College Coach & Private Instructor
Elliot Robles is a proven winner and respected instructor with deep roots in college baseball. As a two-time Skyline Conference Champion as a coach and a former Skyline Champion as a player, Elliot brings a unique perspective to his coaching — grounded in both teaching and competition. He has worked with elite-level youth players across the region, specializing in infield play, hitting, and player mindset. He is well-known for his ability to connect with athletes, break down complex skills, and build confidence.
⭐ Why He’s Great for the Weekend Warriors:
Elliot’s high-energy approach, detailed instruction, and competitive background make him a perfect fit for the Weekend Warriors. He knows how to get players locked in quickly and makes every rep count. He’s the kind of coach that motivates with knowledge and passion, and he helps players leave the weekend better than they arrived. That’s what this program is all about — getting coached up by winners who care.