Pillar Baseball
Our Coaching Staff
Steve Kessinger
At the core of Steve Kessinger’s 15-year coaching career is a deep commitment to the game and the players who play it. As Head of Baseball Operations for Pillar Baseball, Steve leverages over a decade of travel ball experience (12 years) and grassroots community coaching (3 years in Little League). Having coached at every tier—from local community to elite travel teams—Steve understands what it takes to build successful teams and confident athletes. He takes immense pride in player development, five former players he coached in high school went on to play collegiate baseball. Steve is excited to bring his comprehensive experience to Pillar Baseball to cultivate the next generation of players.
Head of Baseball Operations
Bryce Creecy
Bryce Creecy is a former standout baseball player whose success on the field was built through years of dedication and hard work. A former High School Player of the Year, Bryce earned recognition as one of the top athletes in his area before continuing his baseball career at St. Cloud Junior College. Known for his competitive drive, leadership, and passion for the game, he made an impact at every level he played.
Bryce is Available for Lessons: 309-409-9154
Coach
12U Head CoachCurtis Dodd
Coach Dodd brings nearly a decade of coaching experience and a passion for developing young athletes both on and off the baseball field. He has spent four years coaching community youth baseball and five years coaching competitive travel baseball, helping players build strong fundamentals, confidence, teamwork, and a love for the game.
Coach Dodd is committed to creating a positive, disciplined, and encouraging environment where players can reach their full potential. His focus extends beyond wins and losses, emphasizing character, sportsmanship, and preparing athletes for success in baseball and in life.
Richard Creecy
With over 12 years of travel and high school coaching experience, Richard Creecy is dedicated to preparing the next generation of baseball players for success. A former standout player for the nationally ranked and historic Start High School baseball program of the 1990s, Richard knows firsthand what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Coach Creecy’s philosophy focuses on blending elite baseball IQ and fundamental skill development with core values like accountability, discipline, and teamwork. His mission is to build a positive, highly competitive environment where athletes push their limits, build confidence, and develop life skills that will serve them long after they leave the diamond.
Coach
Christian Behrens
An All-State and All-Conference high school standout, Christian Behrens knows what it takes to compete at a high level. He brings that same competitive drive to the coaching staff, where he has previously served as a travel baseball assistant coach. Christian focuses on building strong fundamentals, increasing baseball IQ, and instilling core values like discipline and sportsmanship in his players. He is dedicated to creating an encouraging yet competitive environment where athletes can unlock their potential and build a lasting passion for the game.
Coach
Martin Rancourt
9U Head CoachWith nearly a decade of coaching experience spanning middle school to the high school varsity level (2015–2023), Coach Rancourt is a specialist in player development and mentorship. His coaching philosophy centers on teaching proper skill mechanics, high-level game preparation, and baseball IQ. Dedicated to building a positive yet competitive training environment, Coach Rancourt focuses on instilling core values like accountability, perseverance, and sportsmanship—helping his players succeed on the diamond and grow into confident leaders off it.