CALIFORNIA THUNDER 18 GOLD (VAN KIRK): About THUNDER

The CALIFORNIA THUNDER originated in the early 1990's under Tom Tucker of Tucker Tires in Covina. After winning the 18U ASA National Title in the mid 90's beating the OC Batbusters in the finals, the team remained competitive in ASA for several years. After Tom retired from coaching, the program was revitalized by Manager/Coach Valerie Van Kirk former Cal State Fullerton NCAA National Champion in 2001, who grew up and played in the San Gabriel Valley. Since then, the California Thunder Organization has developed into a highly competitive TRAVEL BALL ORGANIZATION including two "Gold Classified" teams, two talented 14u teams, and an extremely talented 12u team.

Our focus includes all Major 18 GOLD SHOWCASE TOURNAMENTS to provide the players with the MAXIMUM EXPOSURE to display their talents. We have evolved into an organization with 5 teams in age divisions 12U - 18 Gold. Forty-eight (48) players from this team alone have moved on to play and start on collegiate teams throughout the country on both academic and athletic scholarships at all levels Div I, II, III, NAIA and on JC scholarships. The majority of which have started at Division I programs (Please see our Alumni or news page for the link to the list.)

We are currently approximately 80 players strong in in the development of our athletes.

Unfortunately, at this time we do not have a team in the 16u division. We are one of the only major and highly competitive organizations in the San Gabriel and Pomona Valley.