With more than 35 years of coaching experience at the youth, high school, and college levels, Coach John is entering his third season as Coach and Head of Softball for the Garden State Naturals.
As a longtime educator, he is passionate about teaching fundamentals, developing confident competitors, and creating a supportive environment where every player can grow and feel part of the Naturals family.
See you in blue!John Granelli
Head of Softball & 14U Second Year
Coach Lena Buccigrossi brings a lifetime of softball experience to the Garden State Naturals. A former high school and collegiate athlete, she competed at the national level and proudly represented Team USA in Italy in 2014.
Now in her second season with the Naturals, Lena focuses on fundamentals, confidence, teamwork, and mental toughness while creating a positive environment where players can grow and develop a love for the game.Lena Buccigrossi
14U First Year
Coach Mackenzie “Mack” brings nearly 20 years of softball experience to the Naturals. A former competitive travel player and first baseman, she now shares her passion for the game through coaching and lessons.Mack is passionate about developing strong softball players and even stronger young women. She emphasizes resilience, confidence, and making lasting memories while reminding players that setbacks don’t define them—it’s how they respond that matters.When life throws you a curveball, adjust your swing and rock it!Coach Mackenzie
12U
Coach B brings a lifetime of athletic and coaching experience to the Naturals. He has coached players from 10U through collegiate levels and believes softball is about more than winning—it’s about teamwork, confidence, sportsmanship, growth, and creating lasting memories.
Coach B
14U First Year
Phil Blecher is excited to coach the team this season! With six years of experience coaching youth basketball and softball players ages 8–15, Phil has helped numerous teams reach championship games, including leading 8U and 11U Little League Softball teams to the State Championship tournaments.His coaching philosophy emphasizes strong fundamentals, positive reinforcement, and helping players learn to “think the game.” He believes mistakes are part of development and uses them as opportunities to learn and grow.Above all, Phil wants players to have fun, build their skills, and enjoy a high-energy, successful season.Coach Phil
12U
Coach Dan brings more than 20 years of coaching experience and a lifetime of high-level fastpitch softball to the Naturals. A former A-circuit player and longtime pitching coach, he is passionate about developing athletes, preparing players for the next level, and building a strong team culture.A 9/11 First Responder and retired Ironworker, he brings a relentless work ethic and belief that effort and preparation are always within our control. He is excited to share his knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation.Coach Dan
Pitching Coach
Coach Taylor is a Rutgers University–New Brunswick Sport Management student and lifelong softball player. She brings experience coaching athletes of all ages, with a focus on fundamentals, confidence, and developing a love for the game.
With the Garden State Naturals, Taylor also supports social media and tournament planning while pursuing a career in the sports industry.Taylor Granelli
14U Second Year
Coach Tori started playing softball at 5 years old in the East Brunswick recreation league. She played on the town travel team and continued playing at the high school level, graduating from East Brunswick high school. Tori’s softball career was extended at Arcadia University. Coach Tori is excited about starting her 2nd season with the Naturals. Along with learning softball, Coach Tori hopes to teach other skills like drive, dependability and having a positive disposition to her players alongside Coach Lena. She hopes her players can discover their own potential through a game she grew up loving and help her girls gain more confidence in not just softball, but in their own self.Coach Tori
14U First Year
Coach Mallory brings a lifetime of softball experience and collegiate success to the Naturals. A former pitcher and utility player, she competed at Brookdale Community College and Felician University, earning multiple First-Team All-American, All-Region, and All-Conference honors.She is excited to share her knowledge and passion for the game while helping young athletes build their skills, confidence, and love for softball.Coach Mallory
General Coach & Pitching Development