Testimonials
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"In a time when many are touting themselves as "instructors" or "experts" with respect to teaching baseball, it is refreshing to see that there truly are people who are teaching baseball in the appropriate manner. Chris Beacom is one of those people. I had the pleasure of watching Chris when he was at Northwestern. His intensity and passion were obvious to all who watched him play. Today, Chris is no less passionate than he was during his playing days, however, he is now channeling his energy and enthusiasm into teaching the game to others. Baseball is a complex game. In order to teach it, you must be able to connect with your students and above all, you must have incredible patience. This is Chris Beacom. One of my sons went to Chris for a hitting session and I was absolutely impressed on so many levels (as was my son!). We will continue working with Chris, and I will encourage others to do the same."
Scott Rafferty
(Former Div. I Academic All-American Firstbaseman)
Chicago, IL
"Chris,
I wanted to thank you for the outstanding experience Luke had at your recent Illinois Baseball Academy clinic. You and your staff's approach to the game not only taught the kids about the great game of baseball, but also taught them important life skills like listening, respect and focus. Your interactive approach in each session kept everyone attentive and involved . . . and the fact that each kid gets individualized instruction during every class is great."Paul and Jeannine Marran
Wilmette, IL
"Dear Coach Beacom,
Jeff has greatly benefited from your instruction. You seem to have a knack for identifying the most subtle of "deficiencies", and how to correct areas that have been a problem for him. You have limitless patience . . . Never once have I heard a comment that wasn't delivered in a thoughtful, constructive manner. You've managed to get the attention of my son, which isn't always easy during the teenage years. It's obvious that you love what you're doing, because you work well with kids. Jeff has all his ?hitting tips? note-cards displayed on his bulletin board in his room. That was a great way to remind him of where he was, and how far he's come . . . As parents, we appreciate your professionalism, and thank you for being a positive person in our son's life."Jeff and Chris Snell
Wilmette, IL
"After only a couple of sessions with Chris, our son was back to feeling confident and ready to hit. My husband and I were most impressed with Chris's ability to breakdown the steps our son needed to work on in a way that a 9 year old could easily understand, accept and follow . . . Chris was able to customize a plan for us and each week let all of us know where he saw improvements and where we needed to focus our practice. Nolan looks forward to his sessions each week and has fun."
Brenda and Harry Stojentin
Wilmette, IL
"Having played at the game's most elite levels, with an enthusiastic, easy-to-understand teaching style that the kids really respond to . . . Chris very effectively conveys important lessons that resonate well beyond the baseball diamond . . . We're delighted Chris has developed this program and recommend it, on many levels, in the highest regard."
Rob Seymour
Wilmette, IL
"Most importantly, Nathan's confidence has grown. He always enjoyed going to the instructional classes and was upset when we missed one. Now, Nathan can't wait for the next session. For a child who, at one point, didn't want to continue playing baseball, the Illinois Baseball Academy has created a whole new confidence and attitude in my son."
Mark Lee
Wilmette, IL
"Of the many people currently operating, or working within the local baseball instructional facilities, you will not find a more qualified individual . . . . His fundamental knowledge of the game is supplemented by his patience and ability to teach while making the experience a lot of fun. My kids have benefited not only on the field, but they have also learned leadership skills through Chris's positive reinforcement and encouragement. . . . you and your child will gather much more from your experience than baseball . . . Illinois Baseball Academy instructors give the time and attention necessary to teach any age level the game of baseball while helping institute a work ethic that will transcend sports."
Chris Smith
Wilmette, IL
"The IBA has been a wonderful experience for my family and me. The preparation and dedication of Chris Beacom and his staff is unlike any other sports training facility in the Chicago area. I have 4 children playing baseball or softball ranging in ages from 5-13. The IBA staff works wonderfully with players of all ages, skill level and attention span. Their clinics are comprehensive and complete while they astutely and quickly adapt to the skill level of the clinic participants. They don?t just teach technique but they watch and listen to individual participants and help them individually. This is essential as all players are different and need to work on different skills. My children have come away from both clinics and private lessons with a better understanding of the game of baseball as well as greatly improved confidence and baseball skills. Not only does the IBA teach baseball skill and technique, but they emphasize hard work, teamwork and sportsmanship. What a refreshing approach!!
What makes IBA unique is their willingness to work on improving the baseball skill of players of any age or skill level. Anyone who has coached baseball knows this is not an easy task. Too many baseball leagues today focus on games at the expense of practice time. Practice time is where we teach our young players the fundamentals. The IBA clinics and private lessons are a great compliment for teams and players alike, especially when busy parent/coach schedules or lack of field availability prevent us from giving our kids the practice repetitions they need. I highly recommend the wonderful experience of the Illinois Baseball Academy!"
Chuck Ryan
Winnetka, IL
