When Mandeville Hitters Hub opens as a state-of-the-art training facility next month, it will be a new Northshore destination for baseball and softball players looking to up their games. Owner Dane Dishon, a former player and coach, told What Now New Orleans that he was inspired to create a space that breaks away from the more exclusive model often found in high-level youth sports.
“Nowadays, as big as baseball’s gotten and everything, you have to play for a certain team to use training facilities,” he said. “So, I wanted to open up a facility for anyone learning to play the game — girls, boys, whoever. It will be geared towards the youth, but all the way up through high school can get extra work in if they want.”
The facility will feature five training bays, including a dedicated pitching lane suitable for all ages. Three of the cages will be equipped with pitching machines for both baseball and softball. To help players track their progress, the hub will offer high-tech amenities including a HitTrax machine and radar guns. The environment is designed to mimic a professional atmosphere, complete with pro-style backstops and stadium seating for parents and spectators.
Dishon’s business model focuses on a “timeshare” approach through various membership tiers. The Rookie membership includes four 30-minute hitting sessions per month, while a mid-tier option offers seven sessions. The Platinum tier provides ten sessions and can be utilized as a family membership for households with multiple athletes.
“There’s not going to be extra costs involved or hidden fees,” Dishon said.
In addition to cage rentals, the facility plans to eventually integrate one-on-one coaching and group sessions. Future phases of the business may also include on-site retail for baseball merchandise and equipment.
