🏆 Congratulations to Jared Purdy, Jesse Barnacle, & Eric Grande 🏆
FYB Program Coaching Staff of the Year 

Team: 14U Fargo 61’s Blue

Jared Purdy, Jesse Barnacle, and Eric Grande share a deep passion for baseball, a commitment that is clearly reflected in their coaching. Each coach brings a wealth of experience and a unique approach to player development.

Jared Purdy, who played baseball at the University of North Dakota (UND), leads with a “team-first” mentality. He lives in Fargo with his wife, Sarah, and their children, Jada, Bo, Jax, and Ty. Jared believes that baseball is a game full of failures, and learning to handle those setbacks with positivity and support from teammates is critical to success both on and off the field. His coaching philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Swing hard, even if you miss.” Over time, Jared has found a balance between developing players and fostering a competitive team environment, ensuring that each player contributes meaningfully, whether through pitching, defense, or key moments like pinch-hitting or running. Jared also keeps up with the latest techniques and strategies by attending events like the ABCA.

Jesse Barnacle’s coaching journey began after playing for the Concordia Cobbers in Moorhead, where he learned from legendary coach Bucky Burgau. Over the years, Jesse has coached across multiple levels, refining a philosophy that prioritizes player development above all. He believes that while winning is important, it is the focus on proper technique, teamwork, and mindset that ultimately leads to long-term success. His coaching approach emphasizes open communication, ensuring each player understands their role and development plan, with a balance of individualized training and team-focused activities.

Eric Grande, who played collegiate baseball at Mankato, adds another layer of experience and insight to the coaching staff. He lives in north Fargo with his wife, Anne, and their three children, Benson, Tate, and Penelope. In the fall, Grande also coaches with the Dakota Selects program. Eric was inducted into the Fargo Post 2 Hall of Fame in 2023, further solidifying his legacy in the local baseball community.

Together, Jared, Jesse, and Eric have led the 14U Fargo 61’s Blue to a remarkable season, finishing with a record of 46-5-1. Their team has claimed championships at prestigious tournaments such as the Edina Classic, Liam G. Medd 15U Division, Gopher State Tournament of Champions, and the North Dakota State Tournament. One of Jared’s proudest moments was winning the Gopher State Tournament which they were recognized at Target Field, a highlight of the season that showcased the strength of the team.

The commitment of Jared Purdy, Jesse Barnacle, and Eric Grande to their players and the sport of baseball has left a lasting impact on everyone they’ve coached. Their recognition as Program Coaching Staff of the Year is a testament to their hard work, leadership, and passion for the game.

As they celebrate their well-deserved recognition as Program Coaching Staff of the Year, FYB also honors the outstanding achievements of other coaches:

• 5/6U: Joey & Leslie Dawson (Dawson Contracting LLC)
• 7U: Ryan Birney (Fit Body)
• 8U: Kyle Argall (Men's Hair Co)
• 9U: Jordan Pederson (Bobcat)
• 10U: Chris Ahlers (Fargo 61’s Red)
• 12U: Chase Frize (SpartanNash & Fargo White)
• 13U: Wade Sandy (Wolf Steel)
• 14/15U: Sheldon Ehli (RiteScreen)