About
Legends Athletics was founded by three Amherst firefighters, Charles Kellogg, Brian Wood, and Cal Knowlton, who share a passion for athletics and community service. With the goal of making high-level baseball and softball coaching accessible to the average family, we established Legends Athletics in 2020 to focus on nurturing young talent in baseball and softball right here in Amherst. In addition to top-notch training, we also foster a sense of discipline and camaraderie among the youth in the Amherst community.
Meet the Founders
Brian Wood
I was born and raised in Lorain and currently live in Amherst. I grew up playing multiple sports but never had an opportunity to train at an indoor facility. After highschool I stayed local to focus on my career as a fireman. This eventually led me to meeting Cal and Charles at the Amherst Fire Department.
In 2019, I was approached by Cal and Charles regarding an idea to start a baseball program. I was hesitant to start a business during Covid but knew I wanted to give back to the community. I thought this would be the perfect way to have an impact on kids through sports. Our goal was to become positive role models and help improve their skills and abilities.
Shortly after opening Legends, we realized softball was going to become a part of our program. I stepped up and decided I would run the softball program. Over the years I have made alot of connections in the softball world. We now have current and former players assisting with coaching and player development. I have dedicated myself to giving our softball players and families the best possible experience!
Charles Kellogg
I was born in Lorain, OH before moving around throughout the county. While living in Collins, OH I played football, basketball, and baseball at Western Reserve. I moved to Rockwood, MI in sixth grade and stayed there until i graduated. I was an All-Conference player in Football, Basketball, and Baseball while being named Best Male Athlete in my graduating class. After graduation I played in a summer baseball league for a couple years before deciding to join the Air National Guard. I have now been in the military for 18 years with a current rank of Master Sergeant. I am a Station Captain for my civilian fire department with 16 years of service.
About six years ago I was hired by the Amherst Fire Department with Brian. The next year is when Cal was hired. One day after a call myself and Cal were talking about how much we loved playing baseball which led us to saying we should start a business together. We asked Brian if he wanted to start a business with us and he immediately said yes. In 2020 we opened Legends Athletics.
Cal Knowlton
For the last 10 years not only have the players I’ve coached called me “Coach Cal” my teammates, co workers, friends and even family know me by that name.
I played HS baseball at Black River graduated in 2010 and went into the military. I joined the Navy on a special operations contract to be a Rescue swimmer. I completed my pipeline , and was stationed in San Diego California.
I started playing baseball in a men’s league on the weekends while stationed there. At the end of my contract I knew I wanted to pursue my dream of playing college baseball.
I tried out for San Diego city college and was brought on as a “player coach” and was told my role wasn’t to play the game but lead my teammates. That put a chip on my shoulder, I put tons of work in outside of practice and made my way into the starting line up in the 2nd half of my freshman season.
I played LF, and eventually became the lead off hitter. That season I ending with a .367 batting average, became the captain and starting CF going into my sophomore year. I was able to sign a contract and play in the San Diego Costal collegiate league that summer.
After my sophomore year I knew coaching was my path, and turned down offers to continue playing and become a Coach in was able to be mentored by current player development coach for the LA Dodgers Cordell Hippalito and taught me the ins and outs of what implement as a coach.
I coached for Game-time baseball, as well as San Diego city college where I played for the fall session. My wife and I decided to move back to Ohio in 2018. Since moving back I spent a few years coaching for a large travel program out of Strongsville and was the Assistant Varsity Coach for 4 years at Amherst High School.
In 2020 decided to partner up with Brian and Charles to open Legends Athletics. My passion for baseball and making connections with youth athletes that have lasting impacts off the field is my driving factor as a coach. I love all things baseball and love the opportunity to share the game I love with anyone willing to walk through the door.
In the News
Legends Athletics has been featured in the below news outlets.
Testimonials
When we sought a new athletic challenge for our daughter, we were drawn to Legends Athletics for their exceptional focus on player development. Their facility and commitment to growth immediately impressed us, but it was the ownership, especially Brian Wood, that truly stood out. Brian is authentic, genuine, and deeply invested in the well-being and success of Legends players and coaches. Unlike other organizations that might prioritize profit over proper development, Legends Athletics is dedicated to ensuring every athlete is placed in a competitive environment that matches their skill level, fostering both confidence and growth.
We have utilized Legends Athletics' winter clinics for years, even before officially joining the Legends Softball family. Their comprehensive training in pitching, fielding, hitting, and agility has been instrumental in our daughter's development. The organization's emphasis on continuous improvement and reinvestment into their programs ensures they remain at the forefront of athletic development.
We wholeheartedly admire the values and personalities of everyone at Legends Athletics. Their dedication to their players' development and genuine care for their well-being make them a standout organization. We look forward to utilizing Legends facilities and services for many more seasons to come, as they grow and continuously improve in all aspects.
Darren Roe
