Lowe's Grove
American Legion Post 416
BULL CITY LOLLYGAGGERS BASEBALL at POST 416
"Citizenship Through Sportsmanship"
American Legion Baseball enjoys a reputation as one of the most successful and tradition-rich amateur athletic leagues. Since its national inception in 1925, the league has helped millions of players between the ages of 13 and 19, including countless who have gone on to play in college and professional baseball. 82 of those have been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Bull City Lollygaggers Baseball program at Post 416 provides an environment of teamwork, confidence, personal growth and life experience to our players, building championship teams in our community to carry on the 100-year history, traditions and patriotic principals of American Legion Baseball.
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Dedicated to building citizenship through sportsmanship, the Bull City Lollygaggers Baseball program at Post 416 has a winning tradition of mentoring and developing youth for success at life. It is the goal of this baseball program to reach the American Legion national baseball finals held annually in Shelby, NC, where sports broadcaster ESPN traditionally televises all games live. If your personal goal is to achieve something greater after high school and you embrace the coaching offered at Post 416, we believe you'll receive that "something extra" to help get you noticed.
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The purpose of American Legion Baseball is:
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To inculcate in youth a better understanding of the American way of life and promote 100% Americanism
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To instill in the nation’s youth a desire to develop feelings of citizenship, sportsmanship, loyalty and team spirit
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To aid in the improvement and development of the physical fitness of our country’s youth
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To build the nation’s future through our youth​​
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All members of Team Post 416 abide by this code of sportsmanship: I will...
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Keep the rules
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Keep faith with my teammates
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Keep my temper
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Keep myself fit
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Keep a stout heart in defeat
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Keep my pride under in victory
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Keep a sound soul, a clean mind, and a healthy body
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2026 Staff
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Derrick DePriest
Head Coach
& Pitching Coach
Jimmy Smith
Coach
Jason Beaulieu
Player Development
& Recruiting
Ken VanDine
General Manager
Derrick DePriest, Head Coach & Pitching Coach
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Derrick DePriest, Head Coach of Bull City Lollygaggers Baseball at Post 416, brings a powerhouse blend of athletic excellence and coaching mastery. A full-scholarship dual-sport athlete at the University of North Carolina, DePriest lettered in both football and baseball all four years, earning a reputation as one of UNC’s most dominant late-inning pitchers. His record-setting performance in the Cape Cod League—including 15 saves and a perfect ERA—led to his induction into the league’s Hall of Fame and selection by the Montreal Expos in the 2000 MLB Draft.
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DePriest’s professional career spanned multiple leagues and teams, where he consistently delivered as a reliable closer. His journey through the minors, including standout seasons with the Cape Fear Crocs, Jupiter Hammerheads, and North Shore Spirit, was shaped by resilience and a deep commitment to the game—even through injury and recovery. His rehab experience with elite trainers gave him unique insight into athlete conditioning and injury prevention, which now informs his coaching philosophy.
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Now returning to Post 416, DePriest offers students and players a rare opportunity to learn from someone who’s lived every phase of the game—from college glory to professional grit. His expertise in pitching mechanics, game strategy, and player development makes him an invaluable mentor for aspiring athletes ready to elevate their performance and pursue their baseball dreams.
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Jimmy Smith, Coach
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Jimmy Smith brings elite-level experience and a passion for player development to Bull City Lollygaggers Baseball at Post 416. As a former professional catcher with six seasons in the Florida Marlins organization, Jimmy offers students firsthand insight into the demands and discipline of high-level baseball. His deep understanding of the game—from behind the plate to the dugout—shapes a coaching style that’s both strategic and inspiring.
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Currently serving as Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach at Voyager Academy, Jimmy is known for his commitment to youth development. He’s coached in the Nike RBI Program and Bull City Little League, helping young athletes build strong fundamentals and confidence on and off the field. His approachable leadership and dedication to teaching make him a trusted mentor for players at every level.
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Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, being coached by Jimmy means learning from someone who’s lived the game. His experience, energy, and focus on helping players reach their full potential make him a standout coach and an ideal guide for students ready to take their baseball journey to the next level.
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Jason Beaulieu, CSCS, USAW
Founder of B.E.S.T. Sports Performance
Jason Beaulieu is a premier performance specialist with three decades of experience training the world's most elite athletes. Currently leading the strength and conditioning program for North Carolina Central University Men's Basketball, Jason's resume includes significant coaching stops at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and a track record of developing talent for professional leagues (NBA, NFL, MLB) and Olympic competition.
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Jason founded B.E.S.T. Sports Performance to bring a rigorous, science-based approach to athletic training. Drawing on his background as a dual-sport athlete and captain at the University of Delaware, he combines firsthand competitive experience with advanced Exercise Science to help athletes reach their absolute ceiling.
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