EUROPEAN BASEBALL
CONNECTION INC.
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EUROPEAN BASEBALL CONNECTION - OUR MISSION
European Baseball Connection (EBC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping overlooked and unsupported baseball players chase their dreams. Our mission is to open doors for young athletes through international competition, elite coaching, and life-changing cultural experiences that broaden their horizons both on and off the field.
ABOUT US
WHAT WE DO
EBC provides opportunities for players to compete in Europe’s top baseball divisions—leagues that include former MLB and Minor League players along with talented regional athletes. These experiences give players invaluable exposure to professional organizations and scouts from the United States, while also helping them grow as teammates and individuals.
Our programs emphasize elite coaching and mentorship through training from former professional players and experienced international coaches. We provide global competition via exhibition games and tournaments across Europe against high-level opponents. Above all, we focus on character development, empowering athletes—especially late bloomers or those with limited access to resources—to develop the confidence, resilience, and leadership skills necessary for success.
GET TO KNOW JAY PALMA
FOUNDER & HEADCOACH
I bring over 30 years of coaching experience, from professional ranks to youth development, helping players grow both on and off the field. In 2011, I managed a top-division team in the Italian Baseball League, and earlier in my career, I helped train the 1992 Spanish Olympic Baseball Team. I was honored by the California State Senate for my baseball accomplishments in Northern California.
In high school, I was an average player who finally grew into my body by my senior year. I had an above-average arm and speed, and that year I was drafted in the 6th round by the New York Mets, but I chose to attend junior college to further develop my skills. After hitting .398 as a freshman, I was drafted in the 2nd round by the Atlanta Braves—the moment I truly felt ready to begin my professional career.
Coming from a baseball family—my father played in the Yankees and Cubs organizations, and my uncles for the Yankees and White Sox—I was surrounded by experience and guidance. After injuries changed my path, I took a leap and continued my career in Italy, playing three seasons before transitioning into coaching and youth development.
That opportunity opened doors beyond baseball: I appeared in television commercials and modeled in Milan, connecting with my Italian heritage and embracing new experiences that shaped who I am today.
TRAIN SMART, PLAY STRONG
Where Fundamentals, Mindset, and Talent Come Together
SUCCESS STARTS HERE
Focused Training Built for Long-Term Player Success
REACH YOUR PEAK
Guiding Athletes Toward Professional-Level Performance
MASTER ALL ASPECTS
Training the Complete Player—Skill, Strength, and Mentality
Athletes Will Compete Against Italy’s national team and top clubs under professional coaching, while Italian players train alongside Americans, creating cultural exchange and providing benefits such as:
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Elevated competition and energy in the league
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Greater international visibility for scouts and media
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Enhanced player development through American coaching
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Stronger ties between Italy and the U.S. baseball community
All travel, housing, meals, and coaching are provided so players can focus on improving and showcasing their talent, aiming for future European teams or MLB opportunities.
ENDORSED BY EXPERTS WHO BELIEVE IN YOUR POTENTIAL
COACH / SCOUT PLAYER RECOMMENDATION FORM
Players in our program are recommended by college coaches, and respected baseball professionals who see promise where others may have overlooked it, helping open doors to competitive opportunities and continued development.
SUPPORT AFFORDABLE BASEBALL TRAINING
DONATION / SPONSORSHIP
Support a Player’s Journey to Europe
Help reduce the cost for a player’s international baseball experience.
Donations directly support airfare, local travel, housing, meals, uniforms, and training for up to 40 players competing in Europe this summer, helping make international competition possible for the next generation of athletes.