Owner, Recruiting Coordinator
Justin Smith
Since 2021, Justin has served as the proprietor of Wow Factor Carolinas, undertaking the responsibility of ensuring top-notch products for Wow Factor Coastal. Concurrently, Justin holds the position of head baseball coach at Page High School, showcasing over two decades of coaching experience.
Throughout his coaching tenure, Justin has achieved notable milestones, including leading teams to the Elite 32 (USSSA) and guiding a 12u team to a Final Four appearance in Cooperstown. His expertise has extended to coaching four teams in the Palomino World Series (Pony Baseball). A recent triumph includes steering the WF Carolinas team to victory in the Prospect Select invite-only tournament, clinching the championship by defeating formidable opponents like the Scorpions from Orlando and the Ostingers, who held the #1 rank by Perfect Game at the time.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Justin has successfully balanced his commitment to Wow Factor Carolinas with his role as a family man. His fiancée, Tonya, and his three wonderful children, Natalie (19), Dalin (15), and Addison (11), contribute to his well-rounded life.
Justin’s impact on player development is exemplified by his impressive track record, with over 200 players advancing to collegiate play and several making strides in the professional ranks. Notable successes include athletes like Mike Dimock (Wake Forest – Astros), Carlos Rodon (NC State – White Sox), Nick Rogers (NCA&T – Royals), Kenny Schwab (Virginia – Royals), and Houston Sommers (Diamondbacks).
Asst. Recruiting Coordinator
Matt Burrell
Matt has dedicated over 25 years to baseball as a player-coach, evaluator, recruiter, and mentor. Renowned for his expertise in swing mechanics and pitching, he is passionate about sharing his extensive knowledge with aspiring athletes.
With a hands-on approach, Matt’s positive reinforcement and keen attention to detail help players make swift in-game adjustments and decisions, boosting their performance and potential. Many of his players have secured professional contracts, scholarships, and U.S. military offers thanks to his guidance.
Matt’s deep understanding of the game is complemented by his ability to tailor his coaching to each player’s unique background and strengths. He often says, “You never know what a kid has been through, which is why you must bring all data to drive results.”
Every day, Matt brings four key elements to his work: passion, enthusiasm, energy, and positivity. He encourages players to be authentic and coachable.
As a relentless recruiter and expert in player development, Matt specializes in assessment, evaluation, and sport-specific training. He is a licensed and certified strength and conditioning specialist, focusing on speed, defense, arm strength, advanced hitting, mobility, and injury prevention. His skillful film analysis and effective adjustments help players compete at the highest levels.
Matt’s commitment to continuous improvement and organizational goals is evident in his coaching philosophy and successful track record. He has been instrumental behind the scenes with XPE Sports, the NFL Draft, The Diamond Mine, and Core Athletics. Currently, he serves as an instructor and performance coach at Next Level Performance in Taylors, SC, and is also involved in operations with the Boston Red Sox’s High A affiliate, the Greenville Drive.
Director of Player Personnel
Mo Blakeney
Mo Blakeney spent three seasons as a hitting and outfield coach with the Montreal Expos, working under the management of Felipe Alou during his tenure.
In 2007, Blakeney received the honor of induction into the Elon Hall of Fame for his remarkable achievements in both football and baseball.
Since 2005, Blakeney has been the proud owner of Mo Blakeney’s Hitting Factory, a testament to his dedication and expertise in honing hitting skills.
Currently, Blakeney serves as the head coach at Wesleyan Christian Academy, a position he has held since 2020. Under his leadership, Wesleyan’s baseball program has flourished, earning recognition as one of the premier programs in North Carolina and achieving national rankings.
Blakeney’s coaching and training prowess have been showcased through notable players such as Brandon Phillips, Grady Sizemore, and Wil Myers, all of whom he worked with closely and mentored alongside. His influence has been instrumental in shaping their careers and honing their skills to reach the pinnacle of success in baseball.