Meet Our Instructors

At Curl’s Corner Hitting Lab, our team is made up of dedicated, professionally trained instructors who are either former or current players with a deep love for the game. We’re more than just coaches—we’re passionate mentors who have spent years studying, playing, and teaching the game of baseball and softball.

Our instructors are committed to helping athletes of all ages grow, compete, and reach their full potential. We tailor every workout to each player’s individual needs—both mentally and physically—ensuring that they develop the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to excel on the field.

Whether it’s hitting, pitching, fielding, or strength and conditioning, our team brings firsthand experience and expert-level training to every session. We take pride in sharing our knowledge, pushing athletes to new levels, and building complete ballplayers who are ready for the next challenge

  • Owner of Curl’s Corner Hitting Lab ("The Lab")

    Hitting, Pitching, Fielding

    Baseball has been my passion for as long as I can remember. Even though I can’t play anymore, my love for the game never faded—instead, it evolved into something even greater: helping the next generation grow, compete, and thrive. That’s why I founded Curl’s Corner Hitting Lab, or "The Lab"—a place where players put in the work, sharpen their skills, and build a foundation for success.

    At The Lab, we do more than just hit. We focus on pitching, fielding, and all aspects of the game, making sure every athlete has the tools to develop into a complete player. My goal is to create an environment where hard work meets fun, where athletes build confidence, and where every rep brings them one step closer to their full potential.

    Stack days on days. Keep stacking. The grind never stops, and neither do we. Let’s get to work and take your game to the next level! ⚾💪

  • Hitting Instructor

    Ronnie Dawson is an instructor at Curls Corner Hitting Lab with an impressive baseball career and a wealth of experience to share. A standout at Ohio State University, Ronnie was a Freshman All-American and earned 2nd Team All-American honors during his collegiate career. In 2016, he was named Big Ten Tournament MVP, leading his team to victory, and was subsequently selected in the 2nd round of the MLB Draft by the Houston Astros.

    Ronnie has played professionally for the Houston Astros, Cincinnati Reds, and internationally as a KBO All-Star in South Korea. With eight years of professional baseball experience, he has developed a deep understanding of the mental aspects of the game, including staying focused, handling pressure, and maintaining confidence.

    Ronnie is passionate about helping young athletes build mental toughness, develop a resilient mindset, and navigate the challenges of both success and failure in baseball. His unique experience allows him to teach players strategies to stay positive, focused, and perform under pressure—skills that are vital not just for baseball but for life. Ronnie’s expertise and commitment to player development make him an invaluable part of the Curls Corner team.

    Stack Days


  • Athletic Performance Director

    Athletic Performance, Speed and Agility, Catching, Hitting

    I am a proud graduate of St. Francis DeSales High School, where I served as a leader on the baseball team and earned two varsity letters. My passion for the game led me to Muskingum University, where I was a three-year starting catcher and earned my degree in Exercise Science.

    After college, I continued my education by obtaining my Personal Training Certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and my Strength and Conditioning Certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). These credentials allow me to not only develop athletes on the field but also enhance their performance in the weight room.

    I am deeply committed to giving back to the game of baseball and helping athletes of all ages maximize their potential—both on and off the field. Whether it’s refining skills behind the plate, improving strength and conditioning, or building a championship mindset, my goal is to provide the tools and knowledge needed for long-term success.

    Let’s put in the work and take your game to the next level! ⚾💪

  • Pitching and Catching Instructor

    Jacob Popovich has had a well-rounded and fulfilling experience in baseball, beginning with his year at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he honed his skills and gained valuable playing time. He continued to develop his athletic and leadership abilities over the next three years at Graceland University, contributing to the team’s success while refining his overall game.

    His years of collegiate baseball provided him with an in-depth understanding of the sport and shaped his work ethic, discipline, and teamwork. Baseball has always been a true passion of his—a sport that has taught him the importance of persistence, strategy, and camaraderie. It has played a central role in shaping who he is today, and his love for the game continues to drive him both personally and professionally.

    Stack Days