John Granelli

I began coaching softball more than 35 years ago, starting as a student assistant coach at the University of Scranton. Since then, I’ve coached at nearly every level—from travel softball and middle school to 15 years as a varsity head coach, five years at Middlesex County College, and multiple years as an umpire.

I’m entering my third year as Coach and Head of Softball for the Garden State Naturals. I’ve also been an educator for nearly 30 years, and that experience has shaped my belief in the importance of teaching, developing, and supporting every player.

My coaching philosophy is built around Competitive Development: helping players understand how to improve, compete, and win while recognizing the value of every athlete, regardless of skill level or future path.

I truly love teaching the game—from fundamentals to advanced strategy—and I’m committed to creating an environment where every player feels welcome, supported, confident, and part of the Naturals family.

See you in blue

Coach B brings a lifetime of athletic experience and a passion for youth sports to the Naturals. His athletic background includes baseball, track and field at the high school and collegiate levels, and years of playing men’s softball in a variety of formats.

He has coached athletes from 10U through 16U, at the collegiate level, and with 23U players. After taking time away from the game, Coach B returned to softball as a volunteer scorekeeper with the Naturals, quickly rediscovering his love for the sport.

He believes softball is about more than wins and losses—it’s about teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence, personal growth, and creating lifelong memories.

Away from the field, Coach B enjoys Yankees games, traveling, Disney, and spending time with his wife, Michelle. He has also volunteered with Scouting America for more than 35 years.

Taylor Granelli

Hi! I’m Taylor, a senior at Rutgers University–New Brunswick studying Sport Management. Softball has been a major part of my life since I was six years old. Although my playing career ended unexpectedly during my junior year of high school, it opened the door to a new passion—coaching.

I began coaching alongside my father at Herbert Hoover Middle School and later brought that experience to the Garden State Naturals. I’ve worked with athletes of various ages and skill levels through clinics, local teams, and youth sports, helping players build fundamentals, confidence, and a love for the game.

I’ve also spent the past four years coaching with USA Sport Group, where I introduce younger athletes to a variety of sports. This experience, along with my studies and upcoming internship, continues to prepare me for a career in the sports industry.

With the Naturals, I also help manage our social media content and assist with tournament planning and preparation.

My experiences as a player, coach, mentor, and student have shaped my passion for player development and the sports industry. My goal is to become an Athletic Director or Event Coordinator, combining my love of sports with my passion for creating meaningful experiences for athletes.

Coach B