The Springfield Lucky Horseshoes are ecstatic to announce the first coaching staff in team history, spearheaded by both new and returning faces.
Former Prospect League player and current Arkansas State Assistant Coach Zach George has been named the first ‘Shoes manager. The Paragould, Ark native has spent the last two seasons serving as an Assistant Coach at Division I Arkansas State where he played from 2011-2015. The former All-American was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2015 after setting numerous school records including walks in both a single season and career. During his playing days in 2012, George suited up for the Prospect League’s Quincy Gems where he made an all-star appearance after hitting .350 in over 200 at bats with the Gems.
“I’m looking forward to competing in the talent-rich Prospect League as well as having a chance to meet the very passionate Horseshoes fans throughout Springfield! We’re building something special here in the Capital City and can’t wait to get started!” said George.
Springfield, Illinois native Clint Jeffers enters his second year on the coaching staff with Springfield’s Prospect League team. After beginning his playing career at Springfield College, Jeffers finished his collegiate playing career at the University of Illinois Springfield. Jeffers served as Head Coach of Robert Morris University in Springfield from 2018 through 2020 before transitioning to a Head Coach role at Roosevelt University. In 2021, Jeffers helped lead Springfield to its second 30-win season in the Prospect League since 2010.
Jeffers is thrilled for the opportunity to make an impact on the future ballplayers from his community, “I’m enthusiastic about helping the first class of the ShoeCrew develop their talents and showcase their abilities across the Midwest. Springfield is home, Robin Roberts Stadium is home. After playing in this stadium and to now have an opportunity to coach is something I’ve always looked forward to.”
Brayden Simich will serve as an Assistant Coach on the ‘Shoes coaching staff for the 2022 season. Originally from Marion, Illinois, Simich serves as an Assistant Coach at John A. Logan College which is coming off of its third straight 40-win season, not including a 20-1 record during the season shortened due to COVID-19.
“I’m excited to be joining the ‘Shoes and helping with the development of these talented players. Our goal is to make a strong impact on these athletes and aid them both on and off the field,” remarked Simich.
‘Shoes Emperor of Engagement Andrew Miller can’t wait to see the ‘Shoes take the field. “We have all the confidence in the world with our inaugural Lucky Horseshoes coaching staff. It’s imperative that the first season for the ‘Shoes be just as successful on the field as it is off the field, and with our coaching staff, we have set the organization up as best to our abilities to achieve that goal. As a club, we know the ‘Shoes are poised to make a run at the championship with our coaching staff leading our very talented roster.”
The Lucky Era officially gets started in Springfield with the ‘Shoes home opener on Saturday, June 4th. Tickets are on sale now at Tickets.ShoesBaseball.Com.