Coaches

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Nick Grove.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Daniel Bruton.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Daniel Bruton was a three sport athlete in high school, playing football, basketball, and baseball.  He was an all conference athlete, and earned MVP, and leadership awards in those sports.  He started every game on the varsity level for 3 years in baseball and a handful of game at the varsity level as a freshman.  After high school Coach Bruton decided to play football at the college level and choose to attend Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC. After 2 years of football at the college level and because of injuries Coach Bruton decided to transfer to Appalachian State University and focus on his academics.  After Graduating from college in 2007 Coach Bruton went back to his former High School (West Montgomery) in Mount Gilead, NC and started his teaching and coaching career.  As a first year coach Bruton coached Quarterbacks for the varsity football team (which played for the NC 1AA state championship), Head JV boys Basketball coach, and Head Varsity Baseball Coach.  In his first year of being the Head Varsity baseball Coach, Bruton’s baseball team finished 2nd in the conference and went on to the playoffs.  Bruton went on to coach the Varsity baseball team for 4 years and seeing his baseball teams make the playoffs every year. During his four years of coaching baseball at West Montgomery Bruton had 11 players make all Conference and 1 freshman who made all conference. 

After the baseball season in 2011 Coach Bruton and his family moved to Woodbridge, VA (where his wife’s family is from) to pursue teaching and coaching in Prince William County.  Coach Bruton is currently a PE teacher at Beville Middle School in Dale City, where he coached the Middle School football team to an undefeated season and a District Championship.  He also helped coach the Varsity Football team at Hylton High School to a 10-0 record and a Cardinal District Championship before being beat in the 3rd round of the playoffs.  In 2012 Coach Bruton became the wide receivers coach here at Patriot High School.  Coach Bruton is married to the former Winthrop University and Brentsville District High School Soccer player and current Varsity Head Women’s Soccer coach at Potomac High School, Caly Cassady Bruton of Woodbridge, Va. The couple has 2 children, daughter Isabella Grace and son Kai David.

John Nolan.


Pitching Coach

Biography:

John Nolan enters his second year as the Pitching Coach at Patriot HS. John is a graduate of Chantilly High School and played his college ball at St. Bonaventure University, where he was member of the school’s 2004 Atlantic 10 champions and NCAA Regional team. John was also a member of the Bonnies’ 2006 Atlantic 10 runners-up squad. Nolan is a proud Pinkman Pitching product.Before signing on at Patriot, John spent the last five years at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. where he served as the pitching coach, primary recruiter, and was eventually elevated to the position of Assistant Head Coach. John was a major factor in helping Head Coach Ross Natoli guide the Cardinals to three Landmark Conference championships in the past four years and the program’s first ever NCAA Regional appearance in 2011 as he helped identify and bring in four of the best recruiting classes in program history. John has helped his players achieve numerous All-Conference honors and an honorable mention All-American in pitcher Mike Bzozowski. Bzozowski and pitcher Billy Robbett continued on to play professionally after their careers at Catholic.

During the summer, John will enter his second year as the pitching coach for the Vienna Riverdogs in the Cal Ripken Sr. Collegiate Baseball League. Last year Nolan helped Manager Bruce Hall guide the team to a respectable 5th place finish in their inaugural season. Previously, Nolan has managed the Fairfax Nationals and the Beltway Blue Caps of the Clark Griffith Collegiate League and has had the privilege to coach numerous players along their way to professional careers, including eventual draft picks Shane Brown (NYY), Chris Duffy (PHI), Keon Broxton (ARI), Austin Booker (OAK), Chris Haney (SD), and Mark Montgomery (NYY). John has also worked numerous camps as an instructor and evaluator, including Best in Virginia, the Southern Maryland Baseball Camp, DeMarini Top 96 camps, Headfirst Honor Roll, Erik Bakich University of Maryland camps, and Ross Natoli’s Catholic University Baseball Camps. John is a fourth year member of the American Baseball Coaches Association.

Tom Determan.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Tom Determan.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Tom Determan.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Tom Determan.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Brad Rizzutto.


Assistant Coach/Infield Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Nick Grove.


Head Varsity Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Nick Grove.


Head Varsity Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Nick Grove.


Head Coach

Biography:

Nick Grove is entering his sixth season as the Head Coach at Patriot High School. Last season Patriot went 11-10 and qualified for the district playoffs.  In the District tournament Patriot was eliminated by Battlefield 4-3 in an eight inning contest that saw state qualifier Battlefield pull out the win. In 2023 Grove led Patriot to an 18-7 record and a regional semifinal birth. Patriot finished 2023 one win from the state tournament after being eliminated 1-0 by Colgan High School in an eight inning affair. In 2022 Grove led the Pioneers to a record of 15-8 and qualified for the regional playoffs, but were defeated by Forest Park 3-2. In Coach Grove's first season Patriot went 12-3 and reached the regional semifinal round before being eliminated by eventual state runner-up Colgan 3-0. Prior to arriving at Patriot Coach Grove was the head coach at Gar-Field High School where he posted a 19-23 record over two seasons. Grove's two seasons at Gar-Field were two of the most productive season's in the Red Wolves recent history. Gar-Field was a regional qualifier in Grove's first season and finished with a 15-7 record. The 15 wins were one win short of the program's total in the prior three years combined. The regional appearance was also Gar-Field's first in over a decade. Aside from competing at the regional level, Gar-Field secured a district playoff win shutting out Colgan 1-0. The Red Wolves were unable to complete the district tournament as rain washed away the semifinals round and automatically advanced the top two remaining seeds. Grove's first season had several other highlights as well. The Red Wolves early season success started with them throwing a no hitter in Grove's first game as coach. That no hitter was one of two thrown on the year by Grove's pitching staff.  The other came against Freedom High School. Following that early victory, Gar-Field had their first taste of success in the Mingo Bay Tournament. During the week long event held in South Carolina, Grove's squad went 5-0 and defeated five playoff teams (four from out of state) including North Carolina powerhouse Forsyth Country Day 5-3 in the semifinals, and Virginia private school power and NOVA Top 10 Highland School 5-4 in extra innings to claim the crown. The Hawks who finished 24-3 that year, were ranked among NOVA's top 10 teams all season. That win was a excellent signature win early for Grove. The Red Wolves had other clutch wins last year that included defeating regional playoff qualifiers: Forest Park, Colgan, JEB Stuart, and state runner up Potomac.

Prior to coming to Gar-Field, Coach Grove coached in Pennsylvania and Nevada.  In 2008 Coach Grove made his coaching debut at Hughesville High School. Prior to Coach Grove’s arrival, Hughesville had limited success in baseball. Coming off a 6-14 season prior to his arrival, Coach Grove was able to lead Hughesville to a 10-9 season and a playoff appearance in his first campaign. In 2009 and 2010, Coach Grove and his Hughesville team tied the school record for wins in a season at 15. 2010 saw Hughesville advance to the District IV semi-finals, which at the time was the farthest the team had ever advanced in the playoffs. Following the 2010 season, Coach Grove moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he became the Head Baseball Coach at Sunrise Mountain High School. Although Sunrise Mountain struggled immensely, Coach Grove was able to help improve the program and the facilities at the school. While at Sunrise Mountain, Coach Grove worked with a roster of 20 total players (Varsity and JV) many of which had never played baseball before. Coach Grove saw this coaching stop as one of the most important in his career as he realized how important it is to teach fundamentals regardless of a team’s talent level daily.  The learning experience was also humbling for Coach Grove. Before coaching at Sunrise Mountain Coach Grove had never experienced a losing season. Coach Grove credits this stop as one that will always impact the way he coaches/prepares his teams for the remainder of his coaching career.  

Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Grove played his high school baseball at Williamsport Area High School, in Williamsport Pennsylvania. Following an outstanding high school career at Williamsport, Coach Grove accepted a scholarship to pitch collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College in South Carolina.  Having hopes of getting drafted following his Freshman year, Coach Grove was injured during a mid season start and missed the remainder of his Freshman season. The injury plagued season forced Coach Grove to transfer to Division II powerhouse Mansfield University in Pennsylvania. Following a solid career marred by injuries, Coach Grove graduated in 2007 and immediately began his coaching career.

Away from baseball Coach Grove enjoys watching sports specifically baseball, football, and college basketball. Coach Grove also enjoys spending time with his family. Coach Grove earned his BA in History from Mansfield University (2007), his Education Certification from Lycoming College (2010), and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University (2016). Grove Coach is currently employed by Prince William County Schools, and teaches Health and Phys Ed. at Patriot High School. Coach Grove is married to Mrs. Caitlin Grove, and is a proud parent of his stepdaughter Hadley (14), his son Griffin (7) and his two year old twin daughters Reese and Spencer. 

Coach Grove's Baseball Record by Year:
2008 Hughesville High School 10-10 (District Playoff Qualifier)

2009 Hughesville High School 15-6 (District Quarterfinalist School Record for wins in a season, ESPN Radio High School Coach of the Year)

2010 Hughesville High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist School Record for wins in a season)

2014 Sunrise Mountain High School 2-16

2018 Gar-Field High School 15-7  (Mingo Bay Classic Champions, Cardinal District Semifinalist (semifinals were canceled), VHSL Occoquan Regional Tournament First Round)

2019 Gar-Field High School 4-17 (Cardinal District Playoff Opening Round Loss)

2020- Patriot High School 0-0 (Covid-19 pandemic canceled season)

2021- Patriot High School 12-3 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2022- Patriot High School 15-8 (District Semifinalist, VHSL Region B Qualifier)

2023- Patriot High School 18-7 (Cedar Run District Runner-Up, VHSL Region B Tournament Semifinalist)

2024- Patriot High School 11-10 (Cedar Run District Tournament Qualifier)

2025- Patriot High School

Coach Grove's Overall Baseball Coaching Record: 117-92
11 Total Seasons

**2013- Shadow Ridge High School Softball 13-7 (Regional Semifinalist)

Coach Grove's Overall Coaching Record: 130-99
12 Total Seasons

Bradley Rizzutto.


Assistant Coach/Head JV Coach

Biography:

Sean Cheetham.


Varsity Assistant

Biography:

Local baseball legend Sean Cheetham is entering his seventh season with the Pioneers. In his first six seasons he has served in various capacities. Coach Cheetham is currently the pitching coach for the Pioneers and has done an excellent job in his time guiding the staff. In Coach Cheetham’s time leading the pitching staff, Patriot pitchers have collectively produced a sub 3.00 ERA. 2017 was arguably Coach Cheetham’s strongest group, as his pitching staff had a combined team ERA of 1.64. Two seasons ago (2019), Patriot had a great season under Cheetham’s guidance posting a collective 2.84 ERA. In Coach Cheetham’s time as pitching coach Patriot he has helped guide and produce 14 NCAA Division I players, and his pitching staff’s have accumulated a 67-26 record.

Coaching is not the only place in baseball where Coach Cheetham has had success. Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Cheetham played professional baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization, and was a top 10 prospect during his career. Coach Cheetham’s baseball roots were laid in Woodbridge, were he is a member of the Woodbridge High School Hall of Fame (2009 inductee). As a player at Woodbridge (1986-1990), Coach Cheetham developed into one of the most dominant high school pitchers in the country. In his Senior season, Coach Cheetham won several awards and honors and was offered a scholarship to pitch at the University of North Carolina. However, prior to attending North Carolina, Coach Cheetham ended up being selected in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft. Following his playing career Coach Cheetham, decided to stay in the area and settle down in Northern Virginia. It was at that time Coach Cheetham decided to join public service as an officer of the law. In his public service endeavors, Coach Cheetham has served in various roles. He currently works as a detective in Fairfax County, Virginia. In his time away from work and the diamond, Coach enjoys fishing, hunting, and golf. Coach Cheetham resides in Bristow, with his wife Jamie and their son Dylan (12).  

Shane Wingard.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Sean Cheetham.


Varsity Assistant

Biography:

Local baseball legend Sean Cheetham is entering his seventh season with the Pioneers. In his first six seasons he has served in various capacities. Coach Cheetham is currently the pitching coach for the Pioneers and has done an excellent job in his time guiding the staff. In Coach Cheetham’s time leading the pitching staff, Patriot pitchers have collectively produced a sub 3.00 ERA. 2017 was arguably Coach Cheetham’s strongest group, as his pitching staff had a combined team ERA of 1.64. Two seasons ago (2019), Patriot had a great season under Cheetham’s guidance posting a collective 2.84 ERA. In Coach Cheetham’s time as pitching coach Patriot he has helped guide and produce 14 NCAA Division I players, and his pitching staff’s have accumulated a 67-26 record.

Coaching is not the only place in baseball where Coach Cheetham has had success. Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Cheetham played professional baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization, and was a top 10 prospect during his career. Coach Cheetham’s baseball roots were laid in Woodbridge, were he is a member of the Woodbridge High School Hall of Fame (2009 inductee). As a player at Woodbridge (1986-1990), Coach Cheetham developed into one of the most dominant high school pitchers in the country. In his Senior season, Coach Cheetham won several awards and honors and was offered a scholarship to pitch at the University of North Carolina. However, prior to attending North Carolina, Coach Cheetham ended up being selected in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft. Following his playing career Coach Cheetham, decided to stay in the area and settle down in Northern Virginia. It was at that time Coach Cheetham decided to join public service as an officer of the law. In his public service endeavors, Coach Cheetham has served in various roles. He currently works as a detective in Fairfax County, Virginia. In his time away from work and the diamond, Coach enjoys fishing, hunting, and golf. Coach Cheetham resides in Bristow, with his wife Jamie and their son Dylan (12).  

Sean Cheetham.


Varsity Assistant

Biography:

Local baseball legend Sean Cheetham is entering his seventh season with the Pioneers. In his first six seasons he has served in various capacities. Coach Cheetham is currently the pitching coach for the Pioneers and has done an excellent job in his time guiding the staff. In Coach Cheetham’s time leading the pitching staff, Patriot pitchers have collectively produced a sub 3.00 ERA. 2017 was arguably Coach Cheetham’s strongest group, as his pitching staff had a combined team ERA of 1.64. Two seasons ago (2019), Patriot had a great season under Cheetham’s guidance posting a collective 2.84 ERA. In Coach Cheetham’s time as pitching coach Patriot he has helped guide and produce 14 NCAA Division I players, and his pitching staff’s have accumulated a 67-26 record.

Coaching is not the only place in baseball where Coach Cheetham has had success. Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Cheetham played professional baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization, and was a top 10 prospect during his career. Coach Cheetham’s baseball roots were laid in Woodbridge, were he is a member of the Woodbridge High School Hall of Fame (2009 inductee). As a player at Woodbridge (1986-1990), Coach Cheetham developed into one of the most dominant high school pitchers in the country. In his Senior season, Coach Cheetham won several awards and honors and was offered a scholarship to pitch at the University of North Carolina. However, prior to attending North Carolina, Coach Cheetham ended up being selected in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft. Following his playing career Coach Cheetham, decided to stay in the area and settle down in Northern Virginia. It was at that time Coach Cheetham decided to join public service as an officer of the law. In his public service endeavors, Coach Cheetham has served in various roles. He currently works as a detective in Fairfax County, Virginia. In his time away from work and the diamond, Coach enjoys fishing, hunting, and golf. Coach Cheetham resides in Bristow, with his wife Jamie and their son Dylan (12).  

Shane Wingard.


Assistant Coach

Biography:

Sean Cheetham.


Varsity Assistant

Biography:

Local baseball legend Sean Cheetham is entering his seventh season with the Pioneers. In his first six seasons he has served in various capacities. Coach Cheetham is currently the pitching coach for the Pioneers and has done an excellent job in his time guiding the staff. In Coach Cheetham’s time leading the pitching staff, Patriot pitchers have collectively produced a sub 3.00 ERA. 2017 was arguably Coach Cheetham’s strongest group, as his pitching staff had a combined team ERA of 1.64. Two seasons ago (2019), Patriot had a great season under Cheetham’s guidance posting a collective 2.84 ERA. In Coach Cheetham’s time as pitching coach Patriot he has helped guide and produce 14 NCAA Division I players, and his pitching staff’s have accumulated a 67-26 record.

Coaching is not the only place in baseball where Coach Cheetham has had success. Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Cheetham played professional baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization, and was a top 10 prospect during his career. Coach Cheetham’s baseball roots were laid in Woodbridge, were he is a member of the Woodbridge High School Hall of Fame (2009 inductee). As a player at Woodbridge (1986-1990), Coach Cheetham developed into one of the most dominant high school pitchers in the country. In his Senior season, Coach Cheetham won several awards and honors and was offered a scholarship to pitch at the University of North Carolina. However, prior to attending North Carolina, Coach Cheetham ended up being selected in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft. Following his playing career Coach Cheetham, decided to stay in the area and settle down in Northern Virginia. It was at that time Coach Cheetham decided to join public service as an officer of the law. In his public service endeavors, Coach Cheetham has served in various roles. He currently works as a detective in Fairfax County, Virginia. In his time away from work and the diamond, Coach enjoys fishing, hunting, and golf. Coach Cheetham resides in Bristow, with his wife Jamie and their son Dylan (12).  

Sean Cheetham.


Varsity Assistant

Biography:

Local baseball legend Sean Cheetham is entering his seventh season with the Pioneers. In his first six seasons he has served in various capacities. Coach Cheetham is currently the pitching coach for the Pioneers and has done an excellent job in his time guiding the staff. In Coach Cheetham’s time leading the pitching staff, Patriot pitchers have collectively produced a sub 3.00 ERA. 2017 was arguably Coach Cheetham’s strongest group, as his pitching staff had a combined team ERA of 1.64. Two seasons ago (2019), Patriot had a great season under Cheetham’s guidance posting a collective 2.84 ERA. In Coach Cheetham’s time as pitching coach Patriot he has helped guide and produce 14 NCAA Division I players, and his pitching staff’s have accumulated a 67-26 record.

Coaching is not the only place in baseball where Coach Cheetham has had success. Prior to becoming a coach, Coach Cheetham played professional baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization, and was a top 10 prospect during his career. Coach Cheetham’s baseball roots were laid in Woodbridge, were he is a member of the Woodbridge High School Hall of Fame (2009 inductee). As a player at Woodbridge (1986-1990), Coach Cheetham developed into one of the most dominant high school pitchers in the country. In his Senior season, Coach Cheetham won several awards and honors and was offered a scholarship to pitch at the University of North Carolina. However, prior to attending North Carolina, Coach Cheetham ended up being selected in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 1990 Major League Baseball Draft. Following his playing career Coach Cheetham, decided to stay in the area and settle down in Northern Virginia. It was at that time Coach Cheetham decided to join public service as an officer of the law. In his public service endeavors, Coach Cheetham has served in various roles. He currently works as a detective in Fairfax County, Virginia. In his time away from work and the diamond, Coach enjoys fishing, hunting, and golf. Coach Cheetham resides in Bristow, with his wife Jamie and their son Dylan (12).  

Bradley Rizzutto.


Assistant Coach/Head JV Coach

Biography:

Matt Holman.


Assistant Coach/Infield Coach

Biography:

Bradley Rizzutto.


Assistant Coach/Head JV Coach

Biography:

Brad Rizzutto.


Assistant Coach/Infield Coach

Biography:

Sammy Serrano.


Varsity Assistant

Biography:

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

Sammy Serrano, former C.D. Hylton HS and Stetson University standout, enters his first season as Head Coach at Patriot HS. Previously, Serrano served as the Head Baseball Coach at Charlotte Latin School in Charlotte, NC.  In his four seasons at Latin, the program participated in the NCISAA State Tournament every year.

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