St. Thorfinn Stormbreakers Baseball Names Ray Vanags as Varsity Head Coach
Gaithersburg, MD — Sept. 17, 2025 – St. Thorfinn Stormbreakers Baseball is proud to announce the appointment of Raymond J. Vanags as the program’s first Varsity Head Coach. Known for building winning programs and guiding players to the next level, Coach Vanags will lead the Stormbreakers as they launch their homeschool varsity baseball program in Maryland.
Vanags brings a wealth of experience to the position. Most recently, he led The Avalon School to a 2024 conference championship, while helping 10 players commit to college baseball during his tenure. His resume also includes showcase coaching with Dig In Baseball, where his first season produced multiple college commitments, and years of leadership with the Sandy Spring Sports Association, where he built a high school program from one team to three (15U–18U). Over his career, Vanags has developed dozens of athletes who advanced to collegiate baseball, while consistently fostering cultures of discipline, competitiveness, and growth.
“To be named coach is an honor. For years, I have been asked to build programs at every level. For St. Thorfinn, to be able to share the same vision, blueprint, and values that this program will be built on is exciting. I cannot wait to get on the field and start working with our future.”
Looking ahead, Vanags emphasized that success will be built step by step.
“Just like everything, it is a process. You have to crawl before you walk, walk before you run. Our expectation is developing, training, and competing at a high level. This gives you a mindset that translates to more than just the baseball field. We want to be among the elite programs in the area and beyond. When you hear St. Thorfinn, you hear quality, competitive, results!”
Patrick Duffy, Athletic Director and Team President of St. Thorfinn Baseball, added,
“Coach Vanags embodies what we want this program to represent. He develops players, builds tradition, and prepares athletes for the next level—all while holding firm to the values of faith, discipline, and respect. His leadership will set the tone for the Stormbreakers.”
With Coach Vanags at the helm, St. Thorfinn Baseball is positioned to provide homeschool and independent athletes with a competitive, values-driven program that develops both their skills and their character.
