Minnesota Blizzard Baseball

Blizzard Baseball Academy is excited to announce two key internal moves that will enhance our youth development efforts heading into the 2025 season. Isaiah Lufkin has been promoted to Youth Coordinator, while Michael Jensen will take over as Head Coach of the 13U Blizzard team.

Lufkin, who has been instrumental in player development across multiple levels of the program, will step into a dynamic new role that combines leadership, coaching, mentorship, and logistical support. As Youth Coordinator, he’ll serve as a roving instructor, coach, and all-around hype man—ensuring consistent energy, instruction, and culture across our youth teams.

“Elevating Lufkin to a youth coordinator position is something Lufkin was made for,” Blizzard Owner Adam Barta said. “He knows the Blizzard program and it allows him to have a broader impact on the youth side of our teams.”

Lufkin currently serves as the Academy’s lead catching instructor and is also the Program Director for the JP4 Foundation, Blizzard’s affiliated non-profit. Through JP4, he leads community-based youth programs and helps develop young mentors, further reinforcing Blizzard’s mission of building great players and even better people.

Michael Jensen, the current Pitching Coach at Augsburg University, will now lead the 13U Blizzard squad for the majority of the 2025 season. He also heads the Blizzard Elite Pitching Program and serves as the Prospects Tournaments Director. Jensen brings a deep pitching background and a player-first mentality that will be a game-changer for this age group.

“Jensen is excited to coach these guys," Barta said.  "He is a pitching guy who is really going to be able to develop these young throwers into pitchers,” Barta said.  "He has coached these guys in the winter and has a really good feel for all the players.  I know he is pumped to get started."

While Jensen’s responsibilities as Tournament Director may occasionally pull him away for a tournament or two, his presence will be felt all season long. His leadership, paired with Lufkin’s new role, sets the stage for a powerful and cohesive developmental experience for our 13U players and beyond.