Iron Lions Sports Academy
COACH VERN HATTON
Vern was born and raised in the Chicago area. Since playing baseball through college all the way to Minor League Baseball for the LA Dodgers in 2002, Vern has taken his passion for baseball and fitness to the next level, becoming an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer, Youth Trainer, and CrossFit Level 1 Trainer over the last 10 years.
Vern is currently the owner of Iron Lions Sports Academy (formerly Iron Lions Fitness) where he offers private and small group lessons in baseball, as well as off-season athletic development training.
Vern is also a co-owner of Effing Elite Fitness and Nutrition, which is a full gym offering classes to people of all ages and fitness levels.
Vern also has many years of experience in coaching including travel and high school teams.
COACH JOE KINGERY
Coach Joe is a strength and conditioning coach at Effingham Elite Fitness. Joe has an extensive background in athletics; being the 2019 1a IHSA Discus State Champion, competing in track & field at Illinois State University, and completing an internship in 2020 at the Olympic Sports Performance training facility, Garage Strength. Joe has been proudly ISSA certified as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, Powerlifting Instructor, Health Coach, and Exercise Recovery Specialist since 2021. Due to his vast knowledge of anatomy and sports performance, Joe has specialized in training athletes in all age groups. Alumni of his programming include legends, professionals, college, high school, and middle school-aged athletes.
Coach Joe is a strength and conditioning coach at Effingham Elite Fitness. Joe has an extensive background in athletics; being the 2019 1a IHSA Discus State Champion, competing in track & field at Illinois State University, and completing an internship in 2020 at the Olympic Sports Performance training facility, Garage Strength. Joe has been proudly ISSA certified as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, Powerlifting Instructor, Health Coach, and Exercise Recovery Specialist since 2021. Due to his vast knowledge of anatomy and sports performance, Joe has specialized in training athletes in all age groups. Alumni of his programming include legends, professionals, college, high school, and middle school-aged athletes.
ACADEMY COACHES
Coach Vern Hatton is a highly respected and experienced coach who brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the Iron Lions Baseball Academy program. As a former Division I player and coach, Coach Hatton is committed to helping young players develop the skills and mindset needed to compete at a higher level. He brings a disciplined approach to the game, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, teamwork, and leadership in achieving success.