northern IOWA’S
PREMIER BASEBALL PROGRAM
DEVELOPMENT | EXPOSURE | EDUCATION | COMPETITION
Who we are
Welcome to a new chapter for baseball in Northern Iowa. Athletes will now have the opportunity to train, compete and be seen in the one of the top 15U-18U clubs in the Midwest. The Yard, in Mason City is the home the Iowa Sticks™ Baseball Club.
About the Program
Northern Iowa Sticks is committed to developing complete baseball players through quality instruction, purposeful training, and competitive opportunities. Based at The Yard in Mason City, Iowa, Northern Iowa Sticks provides athletes with the resources and guidance they need to improve their skills, build confidence, and reach their full potential.
Led by Director Joel Baxley, Northern Iowa Sticks offers year-round opportunities for athletes at multiple stages of their baseball journey. From youth players learning the fundamentals to high school athletes preparing for the next level, our programs emphasize individual development, competitive experience, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Our High School Spring League and Fall League give players opportunities to compete and continue developing throughout the year. Youth camps and clinics focus on building fundamental skills and establishing a strong foundation, while off-season training helps high school and high school prep athletes improve their performance and prepare for the demands of the upcoming season.
At Northern Iowa Sticks, development goes beyond the field. We strive to create an environment where athletes can challenge themselves, build discipline, and develop the skills necessary for long-term success.
Program offerings
High School Spring League
Keep your game sharp with competitive spring baseball focused on continued development, game experience, and preparation for the season ahead.
High School Fall League
Extend your season, gain valuable repetitions, and continue developing your skills in a competitive environment.
Off-Season Training
Designed for high school and high school prep athletes, our off-season training focuses on improving individual skills, refining mechanics, and building a stronger foundation for the upcoming season.
Youth Camps & Clinics
Give young athletes the opportunity to learn, improve, and build confidence through instruction focused on baseball fundamentals and skill development.
Meet the director: Joel Baxley
Joel Baxley brings a strong playing background, extensive baseball knowledge, and a passion for player development to his role as Director of Northern Iowa Sticks.
Before entering the coaching profession, Joel established himself as an accomplished high school player, earning two-time First Team All-Region Utility honors and All-American Honorable Mention recognition. He continued his playing career at Hutchinson Community College before transferring to Southwestern Oklahoma State University, where he was part of a conference championship team.
Following his collegiate career, Joel transitioned directly into coaching, applying his playing experience and knowledge of the game to help athletes improve their skills and performance.
Joel specializes in hitting and catching and also serves as the Director of Sticks Strength. His expertise extends beyond on-field instruction, with certifications as a strength and conditioning specialist and through OnBaseU.
As Director of Northern Iowa Sticks, Joel is focused on creating development opportunities that help players strengthen their fundamentals, improve their performance, and prepare for the next stage of their baseball journey.
Spects National
Players that are members of the Iowa Sticks Baseball Club will have the potential to be invited to the Spects National Team.
The Spects National Team is a limited group comprised of players from the Iowa Sticks, Nebraska Prospects, Minnesota Icemen, The Arkansas Prospects, Gator Baseball Academy and Minnesota Expos.
Train at The Yard
Located in Mason City, Iowa, The Yard is home to Northern Iowa Sticks and provides athletes with a dedicated environment to train, develop, and compete.
Whether you're a youth player building your foundation, a high school athlete looking for additional competitive opportunities, or a high school prep player focused on off-season improvement, Northern Iowa Sticks offers programs designed to help you take the next step.