Who we are

Hard Knocks Baseball + Softball is a premier year-round indoor training facility dedicated to the development of young athletes in baseball and softball. Our state-of-the-art facility offers specialized training programs designed to enhance skills, improve performance, and foster a love for the game. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, our expert coaches provide personalized instruction and support to help you reach your full potential. At Hard Knocks, we're committed to building strong, confident players both on and off the field.

Aaron (Smith) Barstad, a highly experienced baseball professional with strong local ties, owns and operates the facility. A former infielder and Cascade High School alum, Aaron received a baseball scholarship to Washington State University and finished his college playing career at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. After graduation, he played in the Chicago Cubs organization. His career also includes roles in baseball operations at the University of Washington and the Seattle Mariners, as well as coaching positions at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, the University of Central Florida and both Archbishop Murphy School and Snohomish High School. Currently, he coaches a local travel ball team and Snohomish Little League, where he is dedicated to sharing his knowledge with local youth and serving the community.