TRAINER/HITTING SPECIALIST

William “Bill” Hall is a retired MLB utility infielder and outfielder whose 11-year career (2002–2012) was defined by power, versatility, and grit. Born in Nettleton, Mississippi, Hall was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1998 and became a fan favorite for his ability to play nearly every position on the field. His breakout 2006 season — highlighted by 35 home runs and a memorable Mother’s Day walk-off with a pink bat — cemented his place in Brewers history. Over his career, Hall played for six Major League teams, finishing with 125 home runs and 440 RBIs. A true team-first competitor, he remains honored on the Brewers Wall of Honor and continues to inspire future generations with his story of perseverance and adaptability.

Professional Pitcher • Player Development Specialist

Matt Heidenreich is a former professional pitcher and player development specialist whose decade-long career in the White Sox, Braves, and Orioles organizations shaped his reputation for command, consistency, and a deep understanding of the game. A 4th-round MLB Draft pick from California, Matt now channels his pro experience into coaching athletes from youth through college, focusing on arm health, efficient mechanics, and mental preparation. His philosophy centers on mastering fundamentals, developing strategic pitch design, and building confidence under pressure. Known for his individualized training approach and genuine mentorship, Matt helps players grow both on the mound and as competitors — guiding them with the same discipline and professionalism that defined his own career.

HITTING/FIELDING SPECIALIST

Joe Mangum is a dedicated baseball coach and former collegiate player whose passion for developing young athletes drives his work at Arena LKN. A North Carolina native and Weddington High School standout, Joe went on to play at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where he gained firsthand experience in the discipline, preparation, and mindset required to succeed at the collegiate level. Now part of Arena’s Player Development Staff, he specializes in hitting, defensive fundamentals, and baseball IQ training for youth and high school players. Known for his detailed instruction and positive leadership, Joe focuses on building confident, fundamentally sound athletes who train with purpose and compete with intent. His hands-on approach and steady work ethic embody the culture and values that define Arena.

HITTING SPECIALIST/MENTAL COACH

Drew Costanzo is a former collegiate and professional baseball player whose competitive drive and experience now fuel his work as a coach and mentor. He began his college career at Louisburg College, earning All-American honors and a spot on the Junior College World Series All-Tournament Team before transferring to East Carolina University. At ECU, Drew became one of the Pirates’ top offensive leaders, guiding the team in home runs, runs scored, and walks, while helping the 2004 squad capture the Conference USA regular season title and advance to the NCAA Super Regionals. After signing with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2005, Drew continued his career in the Minor Leagues before transitioning into coaching. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to developing players of all ages through middle school, travel baseball, and private instruction — sharing the same passion and professionalism that defined his playing days.

Pitching Instructor

Carter Sheppard is a 6′6″ right-handed pitcher from Mooresville, North Carolina, whose combination of size, command, and competitiveness has defined his journey from Lake Norman High School to the college ranks. After making 13 appearances and striking out 24 batters over 35.1 innings at High Point University in 2023, Carter transferred to Lipscomb University to continue his graduate studies and baseball career. With experience as both a starter and high-leverage reliever, he brings versatility and poise to the mound. A product of the Lake Norman baseball community, Carter continues to represent his hometown with professionalism, work ethic, and a commitment to constant growth on and off the field.

Pitching Instructor

Kross Robinson is the College Recruiting Coordinator for Arena LKN and Arena National, bringing a blend of collegiate playing experience, leadership, and player development expertise to the organization. A native of Morganton, North Carolina, Kross spent six years competing at Brevard College and UNC Greensboro, where he earned All-Conference honors, captained his team, and helped UNCG capture the 2022 Southern Conference Championship as a bullpen arm. Now, he uses that experience to guide athletes through every stage of the college recruiting process — from exposure and communication strategies to identifying the right academic and athletic fit. His philosophy emphasizes “development before display,” teaching players to train, prepare, and perform like college athletes before marketing themselves as one. Known for his professionalism, mentorship, and deep understanding of both sides of the recruiting journey, Coach Kross helps players turn potential into opportunity and dreams into direction.ption goes here

Pitching Instructor

Christian Aragon is a former professional left-handed pitcher from Atlanta, Georgia, whose playing and coaching experience spans every level of the game. A 2014 graduate of Whitewater High School, Christian went on to pitch collegiately at Andrew College and the University of South Carolina–Aiken before signing with the Los Angeles Angels as a free agent in 2018. He later continued his pro career in the Frontier League from 2019 to 2020. After retiring from playing, Christian transitioned into coaching, serving as a graduate assistant and assistant pitching coach at Lenoir-Rhyne University, where he developed a passion for teaching and player development. In 2023, he further advanced his knowledge by training with Tread Athletics, focusing on modern pitching mechanics and data-driven development. Today, Christian dedicates his experience to helping youth athletes refine their skills, build confidence, and pursue excellence on and off the field.

Catching Instructor

Graham Smiley is a former D1 Catcher with App State and NC State. He graduated App State December of 2025 and is an integral member of our Catching Staff & Performance Catching System.

VP of Growth & Development: Performance Training Systems

John Mangum is the Vice President of Growth & Development for Arena LKN where he leads player development initiatives that define one of the country’s fastest-growing baseball training centers. A former collegiate catcher at NC State and Lander University, John brings a competitor’s mindset and a deep understanding of the game to his leadership. Known for his discipline, vision, and ability to scale high-performance systems he blends baseball insight with business strategy, John ensures that Arena’s growth is driven by purpose and consistency.