Steve Bumbry Appointed as Director of Baseball at The St. James Academy

Steve Bumbry Takes the Helm of The St. James Baseball Academy

The St. James Performance Academy, a premier institution in Springfield, Virginia, has made a significant addition to its team by appointing Steve Bumbry as the new Director of Diamond Sports. This decision comes as The St. James aims to bolster its elite baseball program and make impactful strides in player development.

A Legacy of Excellence

As a Baltimore native and former player for the Baltimore Orioles, Steve Bumbry's association with baseball runs deep. His father, Al Bumbry, is revered for his illustrious career with the Orioles, which adds an interesting layer to Steve's own narrative. Having been immersed in the world of baseball throughout his life, Steve has a wealth of experience that he brings to this new role. His playing career, although shortened by injuries, did not deter his love for the game. Instead, it propelled him into coaching and mentoring young athletes, shaping his professional outlook centered on growth and leadership.

With his extensive network of connections in Major and Minor League Baseball, Steve's credibility and insights into player development have garnered respect within the industry. According to Elyse Graziano, Chief Sports Officer of The St. James, Steve's leadership over the last three years has already transformed the development programs they offer, fostering an environment where young athletes can thrive both on the field and academically.

New Developments at The St. James

In line with Steve's appointment, The St. James Performance Academy is set to expand its offerings significantly. The Academy plans to introduce competitive teams across various levels, including elementary, middle school, high school, and post-graduate sectors. This initiative is designed to provide athletes with opportunities to engage in competitive baseball, compete in both regional and national tournaments, and hone their skills through elite coaching and conditioning programs.

The focus on comprehensive training is unparalleled; players will have access to state-of-the-art facilities equipped with 16 pitching mounds, six baseball fields, and both indoor and outdoor batting cages. Furthermore, The St. James prides itself on its track record of success, with over 100 athletes committing to Division I colleges and 37 making it to the MLB Draft.

A Well-Rounded Approach to Player Development

Bumbry’s coaching philosophy is rooted in the total development of athletes. His co-founding of Bee Well Living, a company focusing on mental resilience and performance optimization, complements The St. James's approach to training. The integration of mental awareness alongside athletic training emphasizes the Academy's commitment to fostering holistic athletes. Facilitating superior recovery and nutrition strategies also forms part of the program, giving athletes access to facilities like Courted, the Academy’s recovery spa, and performance-driven meals through Vim Victor.

Steve's goals don't just revolve around immediate performance but also aim for long-term development that enhances players' chances of succeeding at collegiate levels and beyond. He expressed a deep commitment to seeing his students progress while emphasizing the vital role of strong organizational support in achieving these goals.

Applications Now Open

The St. James has begun accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year, with an open house and evaluation day scheduled. Prospective students are encouraged to attend and engage with the staff to learn about the Academy's offerings.

In summary, Steve Bumbry's appointment marks a pivotal moment for The St. James Baseball Program, as the Academy looks to prepare young athletes for futures in high-level baseball. With his leadership and the planned expansion, The St. James seems poised to continue its legacy of excellence in sports education.

For more information, prospective students and parents are directed to visit www.thestjames.com and follow their social media channels for the latest updates.