Kelsey Etling is a performance coach and player-development specialist who brings both professional and collegiate experience to every training session.

A standout catcher at Saint Louis University (SLU), she capped off her six-year career ranked among the program’s all-time leaders in home runs (20) and RBIs (90). Etling was a key contributor to the Billikens’ historic run in 2023, when they captured their first Atlantic 10 regular-season title, and again in 2024, advancing to the conference championship game.

Her final season was her best yet: she launched a career-high eight home runs, threw out eight base stealers, and posted career marks in runs scored, slugging percentage, and fielding stats. Known for her clutch hitting, she batted nearly .350 with runners in scoring position, went 6-for-9 with the bases loaded, and delivered multiple game-changing extra-base hits. SLU recognized her leadership and impact with the Athletics Director’s Gratitude Award upon graduation.

Before college, Etling starred at Fort Zumwalt West High School, where she was a three-time All-District and All-Region honoree and set the school record for doubles. She also competed with the St. Louis Chaos, winning the USA Softball Junior Olympic Cup in 2018. Off the field, she excelled academically, graduating summa cum laude and completing SLU’s accelerated MBA and B.S.B.A. program in marketing and sports business. She was also selected to attend the NCAA Career in Sports Forum, where she emphasized her philosophy of “coaching to change lives, not just for wins.”

Today, Etling channels that philosophy into her work as a catching and hitting instructor at the Rawlings Training Center & Balls-n-Strikes. She has been giving private lessons since 2018. Her approach blends technical instruction with situational awareness and mental toughness, while also instilling confidence and love for the game.

Families and athletes value her combination of elite playing credentials and servant-leadership mindset. Whether she’s refining swing mechanics, sharpening defensive skills, or teaching athletes how to thrive under pressure, Kelsey Etling brings unmatched experience, passion, and dedication to helping the next generation reach their potential.