Backstop Bootcamp
An Elite 2-Day Catching Camp Featuring The Backstop Bandits
December 16th & 17th
They’re back in Chicago! After a phenomenal, sold-out camp in the area last winter, the nationally-recognized Backstop Bandits are returning to Chicagoland—and we are incredibly proud to announce they’re bringing their elite 2-day bootcamp to The Batter’s Den for the first time!
This is a high-energy, high-rep crash course in every skill that matters behind the plate. Athletes will train directly with an elite group of instructors—current and former college and pro catchers who know exactly what it takes to compete at the next level. With a high coach-to-player ratio and extremely limited camp slots, every catcher is guaranteed to receive hands-on attention and individualized feedback.
Train Like a Bandit
This camp will challenge athletes with advanced instruction and focused drill work in a dynamic, competitive environment. The curriculum will cover:
- Elite Receiving: Steal more strikes with advanced framing, body positioning, and glove-work techniques.
- Power Blocking: Build the mindset and mechanics to become a “wall” behind the plate, smothering balls in the dirt with confidence.
- Dynamic Throwing: Improve your footwork, speed up your transfer, and increase your arm strength and accuracy on throws to every base.
Catcher-Specific Mobility: Learn the mobility and stance work crucial for staying healthy, agile, and powerful all game long.
Camp Details
- DATES: December 16th & 17th (Tuesday – Wednesday)
- WHERE: The Batter’s Den (2408 Walter Payton Memorial Hwy, Oswego, IL)
- COST: $199 per player
Session Times by Age Group:
- YOUTH CATCHERS (Ages 8-13):
- 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Both Days)
- HIGH SCHOOL CATCHERS (Ages 14-18):
- 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Both Days)
Train With the Best
Learn directly from a high-level staff of current and former pro and collegiate players.
- TURNER PRUITT: Backstop Bandits Founder, Former Catcher for Fresno Pacific University & the Savannah Bananas
- LORENZO RIOS: Chicago Native, Current Catcher at Rice University
- MIKE DATO: Chicago Native, Former Pro (Empire League & Pecos League), Bullpen Catcher for the Kane County Cougars & Batter’s Den Instructor
About The Backstop Bandits
The BACKSTOP BANDITS are a tribe of high-level collegiate and professional catchers and catching coaches from around the country who have come together to create a community for catchers of all levels.
THEIR MISSION:
- Make quality coaching accessible for every catcher who wants it.
- Build a community for catchers across the country.
- Raise the standard for catchers at all levels.
- Make catching as cool as it deserves to be.
Spots Are Extremely Limited.
This camp is designed for small-group instruction and will sell out. Secure your spot today and get ready to elevate your game.