Patrick Duffy
Founder, President, and Athletic Director
About Patrick Duffy
Patrick C. Duffy serves as the Athletic Director and Team President of St. Thorfinn Baseball. With more than 25 years of experience as a coach, teacher, and program builder, Coach Duffy has dedicated his career to shaping athletes into leaders both on and off the field. His vision for St. Thorfinn Stormbreakers Baseball is rooted in the values of the Catholic Church, offering homeschool and independent athletes the opportunity to compete at a varsity level while staying grounded in faith, family, and tradition.
Experience
Coaching & Leadership
St. John’s Catholic Prep (Frederick, MD) – Head Baseball Coach
Doubled the program’s win totals.
Guided players to collegiate opportunities across NCAA divisions.
Established a culture of accountability and tradition.
The Avalon School (Gaithersburg, MD) – Head Baseball Coach
Earned 9 championships over 17 years.
Multiple-time “Coach of the Year.”
Sent numerous players to college baseball, including NCAA Division I.
Built a respected program without a home field through grit and resilience.
Bullis School (Potomac, MD) – Varsity Baseball Head Coach & Assistant Director of Athletics
Revitalized the baseball program, building a 30-player roster after inheriting 10 players in the program.
As assistant AD, helped position Bullis among The Washington Post’s Top 10 Private School Athletic Programs (2023).
Wilson College (NCAA Division III) – Assistant Baseball Coach
Specialized in pitching and player development.
Dig In Baseball (Summer Collegiate Program) – Head Coach
Led teams to multiple championship appearances.
Honored with the Decade of Excellence Award by the Maryland Collegiate Baseball League.
Teaching & Program Development
Over two decades of teaching and athletic administration experience, with expertise in curriculum design, student mentorship, and program building.
Known for developing systems of culture, accountability, and leadership that leave a lasting impact on both players and schools.
Recognition & Awards
Old Line Baseball Conference Coach of the Year (multiple years).
Best Baseball Camp for Families, Washington Family Magazine (2022).
Certificate of Recognition, City of Gaithersburg (2014).
Recognized repeatedly for leadership, program development, and coaching excellence.
At every stage of his career, coach Duffy has been driven by a clear mission: to build champions on the field, leaders off it, and programs that families are proud to support. St. Thorfinn Baseball represents the next step in that lifelong calling.
Ray Vanags
Varsity Head Coach
About Coach Ray Vanags
Raymond J. Vanags is the Head Coach of St. Thorfinn Stormbreakers Baseball. With over a decade of experience across high school, showcase, and youth levels, Coach Vanags has built a reputation for developing competitive teams, mentoring players, and preparing athletes for success both on and off the field. His coaching philosophy blends discipline, fundamentals, and exposure, with a strong emphasis on the college recruiting process.
At every stop in his career, Coach Vanags has guided athletes to maximize their potential—on the diamond and in life. His programs have consistently produced championship teams while also sending dozens of players on to compete at the collegiate level.
Experience
The Avalon School (2021–2025)
Assistant Coach (2021), Head Coach (2022–2025).
Led team to a conference championship in 2024.
Designed and implemented training programs to improve team performance each year.
Focused on individualized player development and college recruiting, resulting in 10 players committed to play in college.
Managed all aspects of team operations, including scheduling, practices, and travel.
Built strong relationships with athletes, parents, and administration to support sustainable growth.
Dig In Baseball (2024–Present)
College Showcase and Skills Camp Coach.
Designed player development plans with a focus on showcasing skills for college coaches.
Guided families through the college recruiting process with structured communication plans.
Ran developmental skills camps for ages 9U–17U.
In the first fall season, coached 5 players who went on to commit to play in college.
Sandy Spring Sports Association (2020–Present)
Showcase Coach (2020–2023), 13U Assistant (2024–Present).
Created and grew the high school program from one team to three teams (15U–18U).
Developed college-focused player development plans, producing 12 college commitments.
Established and ran winter workouts for incoming high school players.
Organized youth camps for ages 9U–17U focused on hitting, fielding, and throwing mechanics.
Upper Montgomery Athletic Club (2012–2025)
Coach, Commissioner, and Board Member.
Rebuilt the 11U Select team, finishing runner-up in the NVTBL league.
12U All-Star Coach and semifinalist in the Cal Ripken Maryland State Tournament.
Served as T-Ball and Travel Commissioner and contributed as a board member for 10 years.
Professional Affiliations
Member of the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA).
Fully background checked and fingerprinted.
Coach Vanags has consistently proven his ability to build programs, elevate player performance, and prepare athletes for the next level. His leadership, passion for the game, and dedication to player growth make him an invaluable part of St. Thorfinn Stormbreakers Baseball.