Coaches

Les Mayhew stands at the helm of USA Prime Coastal, serving as the Owner and General Manager of the organization. With a clear passion for youth baseball development, Les is deeply integrated into the program's day-to-day operations and on-field activities.

In his leadership role, Les oversees the direction and management of USA Prime Coastal, ensuring a competitive and developmental environment for young athletes in the region. His commitment extends directly to the players, as he also takes on roles such as Head Coach for teams within the organization, including the USA Prime Coastal 12U team, and manages various age groups in USSSA competitions. He is also recognized as a Club Director, guiding the overall club experience for its members.

Supported by a dedicated team, including Ryan Mayhew (Director of Operations - Showcase Baseball) and Jake Mayhew (Director of Operations - Travel Baseball), Les Mayhew is instrumental in shaping USA Prime Coastal into a notable presence in youth baseball. His hands-on approach and active management ensure that the organization is focused on fostering talent and a love for the game.

Jean R. Metayer Jr. is a dynamic baseball leader with over 25 years of experience in coaching diverse age groups, comprehensive program management, and strategic player development. As Charlotte Director for USA Prime Coastal Carolinas, he drives expansion, recruits top talent, manages budgets and operations, and liaises with college/MLB scouts. His extensive coaching includes head coaching roles with WOW Factor 16U, NTIS Southeast USA 16U, Metrolina-Elite Baseball Academy (Founder), Palisades Knights Legion (Founder), Carolina Royals (Varsity), and Covenant Day High School (JV Head/Varsity Asst.), consistently focusing on elite competition, player advancement, and college readiness. Metayer's administrative leadership also includes roles as Steele Creek Athletic Association Baseball Commissioner and CABL Vice President. A former semi-pro player/coach and University of Massachusetts Amherst graduate, his expertise spans in-game tactics to off-season conditioning.

Coach BeCoats brings a deep-rooted passion for player development and winning culture to every team he leads. A former standout player and captain at Phillip O. Berry, where he earned Varsity MVP honors, he now serves as an Assistant Varsity Coach and Head JV Coach at his alma mater continuing to invest in the next generation of talent.

He currently heads the USA Prime Coastal Stars 16U 27’s program, combining years of travel ball experience with a modern approach to coaching and recruiting. As a proud alum of Limestone College Baseball, Coach BeCoats leverages his collegiate playing experience to prepare athletes for the next level on the field, in the classroom, and in life.

His coaching journey includes roles with some of the region’s most respected programs. Known for his energy, communication, and player-first mindset, Coach BeCoats specializes in offensive development, digital swing analysis, and college recruiting support.

Ryan Rullo is the Founder and Managing Partner of Ultimate Baseball Academy, Head Coach for USA Prime Coastal Charlotte 1776 Braves 15u, and Varsity/Middle School Baseball Coach at Ultimate Prep Baseball Academy. A former dual-sport collegiate athlete and four-year starting baseball captain at St. Vincent College (NAIA D1), Rullo brings 16 years of coaching experience in baseball and basketball from youth to varsity levels (including formerly with South Charlotte Thunder basketball). His philosophy centers on holistic player development, emphasizing character, leadership, and fostering a competitive, growth-oriented environment. In 2021, he founded the non-profit NC/SC Ultimate Baseball Academy and the 1776 Braves, which fields middle school, high school varsity, and travel teams. This initiative includes Ultimate Prep Academy, an alternative high school program with expansion plans, and the Ultimate Baseball Academy Indoor Facility in Waxhaw, NC. Rullo is dedicated to developing well-rounded student-athletes prepared for future success.

Ron Espinosa, coach for USA Prime Coastal Charlotte Ultimate 13u, brings over 20 years of baseball coaching experience, highlighted by a 2011 National Championship and a proven record of developing young athletes. He also has 10+ years of football coaching experience and holds certifications as a USA Football Master Trainer and from the SUNY Youth Sports Institute. Espinosa's elite coaching includes serving as a USSSA All State Games coach (2023, 2024) and a Top Gun Sports All Star coach (2021-2023), where he was named a Top Gun All American Coach in 2021. His administrative leadership includes presidencies of a 17-town Pop Warner league and board memberships in several recreational leagues, underscoring his extensive multi-sport coaching and leadership expertise.

We are thrilled to announce the addition of former professional baseball player Jay Gause to our coaching staff at USA Prime Charlotte. Jay brings a wealth of high-level playing experience and a passion for the game that will greatly benefit our athletes.

Jay's impressive baseball journey includes standout collegiate careers at both Walters State Community College and NC State University, where he honed his skills and showcased his talent. His abilities on the mound did not go unnoticed, as he was drafted twice by Major League Baseball organizations. Jay was first selected by the Cleveland Indians in the 25th round of the 2010 MLB June Amateur Draft out of high school. He was later drafted by the Houston Astros in the 10th round of the 2014 MLB June Amateur Draft following his collegiate career.

As a right-handed pitcher, Jay competed in professional baseball, gaining invaluable insights into the dedication, skill, and mindset required to play at elite levels.

We are excited for Jay Gause to bring his extensive background and firsthand professional experience to our USA Prime Charlotte group. His knowledge will be a tremendous asset in developing our players and helping them reach their full potential. Please join us in welcoming Coach Jay Gause to the program!

Daniel Wright currently serves as an Assistant Coach for the USA Prime Coastal Elite Stars based in Charlotte, NC. Known for his goal-driven approach and hands-on leadership, Coach Wright is dedicated to guiding athletes toward both operational success and competitive excellence. His coaching philosophy is grounded in meticulous attention to detail, early issue identification, and personalized mentoring to help each player reach their full potential.

Coach Wright brings a strategic mindset to player development, emphasizing mastery of baseball fundamentals, sportsmanship, and effective training routines.

He takes pride in not only teaching the physical aspects of the game but also sharing the deeper life lessons baseball offers, both on and off the field. His passion lies in helping young athletes grow as skilled players and as responsible, community-minded individuals.

Wright began his coaching career at Lake Norman Little League and has held key coaching positions throughout the region. His experience includes serving as an Assistant Coach at Ridge Road Middle School and with WOW Factor Queen City. Most recently, he was the Head Coach for WOW Factor Nation 17U based in Denton, NC.

A proud Charlotte native, Trenton Mack-Thorne brings his passion for baseball and youth development to his role as Head JV Baseball Coach at his alma mater, West Mecklenburg High School. Having walked the same halls and played on the same fields, Coach Mack-Thorne has a unique connection to the Hawks program and a deep understanding of its community.

His coaching philosophy extends beyond the lines of the baseball diamond. Coach Mack-Thorne is dedicated to fostering growth in his players, not only in their athletic talents but also in their attitude and effort. He thrives on the opportunity to help young athletes reach higher levels of baseball, instilling in them the dedication and mindset necessary for success both on and off the field.