By Josh Beavers
Chase Spatafora’s journey from Union Parish High School to the baseball diamond at LSU Shreveport, and now to the coaching ranks at Lakeside High School, reads like a testament to perseverance and passion for the game.
The Ruston native, who graduated from Union Parish in 2016, spent five years playing collegiate baseball at LSU Shreveport, including a memorable run to the World Series in 2021. Like many student-athletes, his college career wasn’t without challenges—COVID-19 interrupted one of his seasons—but those experiences only strengthened his resolve.
“Playing at the collegiate level, especially being part of a World Series team, taught me what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Spatafora reflects. “That experience showed me the importance of consistent intensity and having a strong work ethic every single day.”
After hanging up his cleats, Spatafora transitioned into coaching at Natchitoches Central High School, where he spent two years honing his skills as an assistant baseball coach, assistant football coach, and director of the strength and conditioning program. Those varied roles prepared him well for his new dual position at Lakeside.
Now serving as both head baseball coach and assistant football coach under Coach Ware, Spatafora brings ambitious goals to his new home. For baseball, his objectives are crystal clear: “We want to win the district championship and ultimately compete for a state title. Lakeside has a winning tradition, and I’m here to continue that legacy.”
His approach centers on setting clear expectations and fostering daily improvement. “I tell my players that we’re going to bring consistent intensity to everything we do,” Spatafora explains. “Whether it’s practice, games, or conditioning, we’re going to work hard and get better every single day.”
The football side of his responsibilities excites him equally. Working alongside Coach Ware, Spatafora will step into a defensive coordinator role while continuing to collaborate on the school’s strength and conditioning programs. “Coach Ware is building something special here, and I’m eager to contribute to that success,” he says.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Spatafora emphasizes the importance of truly knowing his players. His commitment extends into the summer months, where he’ll coach 34 games of summer baseball and work with the Little Warriors program. “I want to know these kids through baseball,” he states. “The relationships we build off the field directly impact what we can accomplish on it.”
This community-focused approach aligns perfectly with Lakeside’s supportive environment, something that drew Spatafora to the position. “The community support here at Lakeside is incredible,” he notes. “Having that backing makes a huge difference in building a strong program.”
Personal stability provides a solid foundation for his professional ambitions. Spatafora married his wife Brittany this past December, after three and a half years together. “Having that support at home allows me to fully commit to these kids and this program,” he acknowledges.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Spatafora’s vision extends beyond wins and losses. He’s focused on developing not just skilled players, but young men who understand the value of hard work and dedication. “We’re going to build something special here,” he promises. “The tradition is already in place—now it’s time to add our own chapter to Lakeside’s story.”
With championship experience as a player and a growing reputation as a dedicated coach, Spatafora represents the kind of leadership that can elevate a program. His dual role in baseball and football, combined with his community engagement, positions him as a cornerstone for Lakeside’s athletic future.
The expectations are high, but so is his determination. “Every day is an opportunity to get better,” Spatafora concludes. “That’s the mindset and I believe great things are going to happen.”