Former MLB Players Partner with Diamond Dreams Academy to Bring Professional Baseball Training to India

Former MLB Players Join Forces with Diamond Dreams Academy to Launch Professional Baseball Training in India

Diamond Dreams Academy (DDA) has announced a groundbreaking initiative to bring professional baseball training to India. This program aims to nurture young athletes aged 14 to 24, offering them top-notch coaching and mentorship from former Major League Baseball (MLB) players and global sports executives.

The academy, founded by Kanwal Sra, promises to revolutionize sports development in India. It will introduce a professional baseball league after building a strong foundation of skilled athletes. With over 1.4 billion people and nearly 1 billion cricket fans in the country, the potential for baseball’s growth is immense.

A Vision for Baseball in India

Kanwal Sra, CEO and Founder of DDA, is committed to fostering talent at the grassroots level.

“We believe player development starts at the ground level. This academy will serve as a pathway for young athletes to pursue their baseball dreams while learning essential life skills,” Sra said.

Sra, who previously founded the first professional baseball league in Dubai, is passionate about bringing the sport he loves to India.

“Having been born in India and moving to America at a young age, I always dreamed of giving back. This initiative is very personal to me, and we’re excited to inspire India’s youth to fall in love with baseball,” he added.

World-Class Expertise

The DDA training program boasts an impressive roster of advisors and coaches. These include:

• Todd Stottlemyre, a three-time World Series champion pitcher with a revolutionary five-step curriculum for player development.
• Ozzie Virgil Jr., a former MLB catcher and son of the first Dominican player in the league.
• Christina Whitlock, the first female coach in the St. Louis Cardinals organization and a US Women’s National Baseball Team member.
• Bill Franciscus, Director of Baseball Operations for multiple organizations and a global advocate for baseball.

Todd Stottlemyre expressed his excitement, saying,

“I am thrilled to work with DDA and help India embrace baseball. Our mission is to empower young athletes to achieve success on and off the field. With hard work and determination, nothing is impossible.”

A Holistic Approach to Development

DDA’s program isn’t just about baseball—it focuses on holistic growth. According to Neelam Sharma, COO, the academy will take an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) approach to ensure a positive impact.

Deepesh Solanki, Head of Operations in India, emphasized the state-of-the-art facilities and expert coaching.

“Our curriculum is designed to enhance players’ techniques, strategies, and overall performance. This initiative will be a game-changer for sports in India,” Solanki said.

In addition to technical skills, participants will benefit from workshops on sports management and career opportunities beyond the field.

“We aim to equip players and coaches with valuable insights that will shape their futures,” said Sachin, GM and Head of Grassroots Development.

A Step Towards Inclusivity

DDA is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. The academy plans to offer scholarships and free training programs to underserved communities, ensuring that talent and dedication are the only prerequisites for success.

“Our goal is to create a nurturing environment that promotes diversity and community engagement,”

Sra said. By partnering with universities and community organizations, DDA hopes to inspire the next generation to embrace the values of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.

A Legacy Beyond Baseball

DDA’s mission extends beyond the game itself. The academy aims to cultivate future leaders who will carry the spirit of baseball into their communities.

“This academy represents a significant investment in youth sports and the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience,” said Avneet Sra, CFO.

Dr. Parmar, Director, added,

“By providing a top-notch training environment, we can inspire young players to excel and embody the values that baseball represents. This is not just about creating athletes; it’s about building character.”

Empowering Dreams

At its core, DDA envisions a world where every young athlete has the opportunity to pursue their passion, regardless of their background. The academy’s innovative approach will empower Indian youth to excel both on and off the field, fostering a legacy of excellence and integrity.

About Diamond Dreams Academy

Diamond Dreams Academy strives to be a beacon of hope and development. It provides exceptional baseball training while teaching life skills like perseverance, teamwork, and leadership.

DDA’s vision includes promoting inclusivity and offering resources to underserved communities. By collaborating with professional athletes, universities, and organizations, the academy hopes to inspire a new generation of leaders.

The academy’s efforts will ensure that baseball becomes more than just a game—it will be a source of pride and inspiration for the entire country.

Building tomorrow’s baseball champions, one dream at a time.

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