Email: l.a.matthewsconnect@gmail.com

Location: Charlotte, NC

Connect: www.linkedin.com/in/leanne-matthews-640b9220a

Education

2023-2025

Rutgers University

Master of Communication and Media

Graduation: 2025

Focus on diversity, communication, and leadership in sports

2021-2023

University of Houston — Houston, TX

Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies

Graduated: 2023

Minors: Nutrition, Sociology, Media Production

2019-2021

Penn State University — State College, PA

Business Administration (Transferred)

• Branding and Content Creation

• Digital Content Creation (Canva, basic graphic design)

• Athlete Development & Mentorship

• Public Speaking & Youth Engagement

• Social Media Strategy & Branding

• Leadership in High-Pressure Environments

• Coaching & Constructive Feedback

• Event Planning & Community Outreach

Leanne Matthews

Work Experience

Juncos de Juncos — Liga Puertorriqueña de Softbol Femenino (LPFS)

Professional Softball Player | May 2026 – July 2026

• Compete professionally in Puerto Rico's premier women's softball league against elite national and international talent.

• Represent the Juncos organization through media appearances, community outreach, and promotional events.

• Demonstrate elite athletic performance, leadership, and professionalism while balancing year-round coaching and program leadership responsibilities.

• Collaborate with coaches and teammates in a high-performance environment focused on championship-level competition.

• Recorded a two-home run performance during the 2026 LPFS postseason, adding another multi-home run game to a growing professional career.

On Deck Academy

Softball Director | March 2026 – Present

• Direct all aspects of the softball program, overseeing athlete development, coaching staff, and daily program operations.

• Lead curriculum development and implement comprehensive training plans for teams ranging from 10U–16U.

• Establish coaching standards and mentor staff to deliver a consistent, high-quality athlete experience.

• Manage player evaluations, tryouts, camps, clinics, and year-round development initiatives.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for athletes and families, providing guidance on player development and the collegiate recruiting process.

• Drive program growth through strategic marketing, social media, and community engagement initiatives.

Showcase Fastpitch Academy (SFA)

Softball Director | February 2026 – March 2026

• Oversee softball program development, athlete training standards, and curriculum implementation

• Design and lead hitting, defense, and mental performance clinics for athletes ages 8U–18U

• Manage program structure, coach coordination, and athlete development pathways

• Organize camps, clinics, and training opportunities to support long-term athlete growth

• Provide recruiting guidance, mentorship, and development support for aspiring collegiate athletes

Algodoneras del Unión Laguna – Liga Mexicana de Softbol (LMS)

Professional Softball Player | January 2026 – Present

• Compete professionally in the Liga Mexicana de Softbol against elite international competition

• Represent the organization through media appearances, interviews, and public-facing events

• Serve as a role model and leader for youth athletes

• Demonstrate high-level performance, preparation, and professionalism in a professional team environment

The L.A. Standard by Leanne Matthews

Founder | June 2025 – Present

• Lead athlete development programs, digital branding, and softball education

• Develop digital products, clinics, and personalized training for athletes nationwide

• Manage brand partnerships, marketing strategy, and community engagement

Grind & Glow Elite Training by Matthews & Smith

Co-Founder | August 2025 – Present

• Co-created a high-level training program with pro athlete Morgan Smith

• Design hitting, defense, and mindset curriculum for youth and elite softball players

• Plan and direct clinics, camps, and skill-development programs

Mystics 18U Dorman – Louisville Slugger National Team

Assistant Coach | August 2025 – November 2025

• Assisted with national-level player development and elite tournament preparation

• Supported offensive and defensive strategy for high-performance athletes

• Provided recruiting guidance and athlete evaluation

Minority Softball Prospects – All-American Prospect Games

Assistant Coach | November 23–25, 2025

• Coached top minority softball athletes during national All-American showcase

• Facilitated skill development, game-day adjustments, and mentorship

• Collaborated with MSP leadership to highlight emerging talent

Rutgers Softball
Camp Coach | 2024 – 2025

• Assisted with planning and facilitating Rutgers youth and prospect softball camps

• Delivered instructional sessions on hitting, fielding, and base running

• Worked closely with recruits and families to promote a positive camp experience

• Collaborated with Rutgers coaching staff on camp organization and setupRutgers University & University of Houston, NJ & TX

Carolina Elite – Fusetti
Assistant Coach | Summer 2024

• Organized team practices and mentored youth athletes

• Provided individualized player development plans

• Supported game-day operations and parent relations

Dorothy J. Vaughan Academy of Technology
Program Support Assistant | 2023-2024

• Presented on sports nutrition to a diverse group of K–5 students

• Introduced Canva to staff for internal communications

• Supported marketing for school-wide and community events

• Mentored students and coordinated school programs

Profile

Motivated and passionate leader with a Master’s in Communication, Information, and Media from Rutgers University. Former Division I softball player with experience in youth development, event coordination, digital branding, and sports education. Proven ability to create engaging programs for young athletes, foster community relationships, and tell impactful stories across platforms.