About Us
The Virginia Amateur Baseball Association (VABA) was designed to provide baseball players with an all-inclusive opportunity to advance in the game of baseball!
Co-Founder
Joshua Eldridge
Josh brings years of experience to VABA on the Playing and Operations side of the game. Josh was a First Team All-Met Selection out of Hayfield High School before going on to play Division 1 Baseball at Old Dominion University. He had a successful 4 year career at ODU where he was named Rookie All-Conference, a Coastal Plains League All-Star and All-Coastal Plains league. Team highlights include being a key part to the 2014 ODU Regional qualifying team and getting the chance to play in the Cape Cod League for the Chatham Anglers. (#1 in country)
After Josh “hung up the cleats” and graduated with his degree in Business Administration, he began his professional journey in the sport off the field. That journey landed Josh at Baseball Factory where he has worked his way up to the Executive Director of Operations in his 6 year tenure with the company. Through this journey Josh has been able to schedule hundreds of events and tournaments around the country that range from local tryouts all the way up to the Under Armour All-American Game!
“I am excited to provide a platform for the youth to get out and play. I remember growing up and my parents sacrificing a lot of time and money to travel and see me play. I want to make it easier for parents, grandparents and family members to watch their child play.”
-Josh
Co-Founder
Co-Founder
Brian Beard
Brian brings years of coaching and camp coordinating experience to VABA. Brian grew up in Chesapeake, VA where he was an All-District Baseball and Football standout at Great Bridge HS. (won the 2011 baseball state championship)
After High School, Brian went on to play Division 1 Baseball where he lettered two years at Old Dominion University & two years at Norfolk State University. Overall, he had a successful 4 year career that included 2 MEAC Northern Division titles, a first-team All-MEAC selection and Academic All-American honors!
After Brian graduated with his degree in Business Management, he immediately began his coaching career at the Division 1 level. Brian was an assistant coach on the Norfolk State staff and helped with recruiting. During this time he focused on coaching the outfielders, assisting with hitting instruction and served as the programs camp coordinator!
-Brian
Co-Founder