Brian's journey in baseball is built on more than wins and stats, it’s built on connection, growth, and belief in every athlete he leads.

A lifelong Connecticut native, Brian’s love for the game began at West Haven High School and blossomed at Southern Connecticut State University, where he played two seasons and was part of the 2005 squad that made SCSU’s first-ever Division II College World Series appearance. After graduation, he returned to his alma mater, joining the coaching staff in 2021.

Between his stints at SCSU, Brian spent years shaping high school athletes. As head coach at Guilford High School, he led the program to 92 wins, seven state tournament appearances in eight years, and earned the 2017 Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Coach of the Year award. He also served as a pitching coach with the New Britain Bees, bringing pro-level instruction to aspiring players. Hayden is the current head coach at Notre Dame of West Haven. In his two years at ND he has won back to back division titles and was named 2026 SCC Coach of The Year. Hayden was named 2026 Southern Connecticut Diamond Club Coach of the Year.

Today, he leads both the public face and heartbeat of Northeast Clutch as a coach and mentor. His approach emphasizes emotional development as much as physical skill.  Brian believes in building resilient, confident athletes who know how to lead, adapt, and thrive under pressure.

Under Brian’s guidance, young players learn more than mechanics. They learn accountability, communication, grit, and how to face challenges off the field. Whether walking into the batting cage or sitting in a one-on-one talk, every moment becomes an opportunity to grow trust, character, and self-belief.

If you’re looking for a coach who sees the athlete within the uniform, who invests in mindset as much as performance, and who holds the bar high while lifting each player, you’ve met him. Brian Hayden brings heart, discipline, and a vision for what youth baseball should be.. competitive, inclusive, and transformative.

To book a lesson with Coach Hayden - Book Here! 

I would like to introduce Matt Biondi who brings extensive coaching experience to Northeast Clutch. Matt served as the Head Freshman Baseball Coach at Notre Dame of West Haven High School in both 2021 and 2022. He was subsequently promoted to Varsity Assistant Coach in 2023, a position he currently holds. Additionally, Matt has experience as a head coach for another travel baseball program.

During his playing career, Matt was a member of the 2011 State Championship baseball team at Notre Dame of West Haven. In the same year, the SCC Diamond Club honored him with the "No I in Team Award." His junior year also saw his team reach the state championship game.

Matt's career highlights include five career home runs, two years as a catcher at Dean College, and successfully coaching multiple college athletes at all three levels.

We are excited to have Matt on board . We believe his experience and passion will be a significant asset to our team and contribute greatly to our boys.

We look forward to the positive impact he will have and are eager to see him contribute to our shared goals.

To book a lesson with Coach Biondi - Book Here! 

Nico Gambardella is the head junior varsity baseball coach at Notre Dame High School in West Haven, Connecticut. A former All-State player at West Haven High School. Playing experience also includes 5 amateur championships

Baseball runs deep in the Gambardella family. Nico and his brothers, Jerry and Tyler, each earned All-State recognition at West Haven High School. Growing up in that environment built a lasting connection to family, community, and the game.

Throughout his playing career, Nico transitioned from the infield to the outfield and then behind the plate as a catcher, alongside his experience on the mound. Having played across the diamond, he understands the adjustments, responsibilities, and perspective each position requires. That versatility shapes his coaching: he wants every young player to have the skills and confidence to step into any position and contribute. 

Bobby Hume is an experienced Strength & Conditioning Specialist with more than 12 years as a training facility owner and a proven track record of developing athletes from the youth level through NCAA Division I.

A NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, Bobby also holds specialized certifications in Youth Exercise, Sports Therapy, Cardio Capacity, Pre-Natal Exercise, and Exercise Nutrition.

Bobby spent 8 years coaching at West Haven High School, where he led strength and conditioning programs for the baseball and hockey teams. Throughout his career, he has coached and developed athletes across multiple sports, helping them improve strength, speed, conditioning, durability, and overall athletic performance.

His coaching philosophy centers on building stronger, healthier, more capable athletes through purposeful training, proper technique, and long-term development. 

Head Freshman Baseball Coach at Notre Dame West Haven High School, where he plays an important role in introducing young athletes to the Green Knights' tradition, culture, and expectations of excellence. He also coaches players ages 9U–13U with NorthEast Clutch, focusing on developing strong fundamentals, baseball IQ, confidence, and the work ethic necessary to succeed at the high school level and beyond.

A former Notre Dame West Haven outfielder, John brings firsthand playing experience and a strong understanding of the game to his coaching approach. He specializes in outfield development, emphasizing proper reads, efficient routes, footwork, positioning, and throwing mechanics. His coaching philosophy centers on building technically sound, disciplined, and well-rounded players while fostering a competitive mindset and a lasting appreciation for the game.