Westfield-based Roundtripper continues to grow game of baseball 

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When Chris and Sue Estep opened Roundtripper Sports Academy in Westfield in 1993, the couple was preparing to do something they said no one in Indiana had ever done – create an academy dedicated solely to America’s pastime. 

Now approaching its 30th anniversary, Roundtripper Academy’s dedication to player development and the game itself hasn’t wavered.

“It’s come a long way since our beginnings, for sure,” Sue said. 

The Esteps met at the University of Kentucky, where Chris was an All-American baseball player and Sue was a cheerleader. After his college career Chris bounced around the minor leagues playing for teams affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He opened Roundtripper after the conclusion of his professional career.

Today, the facility has 65,000 square feet of indoor space and three outdoor fields. The academy hosts tournaments and fields elite teams, runs camps and offers private lessons.

Chris is the lead hitting instructor at Roundtripper. He works with a range of clients from beginners to professionals.

Pro alumni include Lance Lynn, Drew Storen and Tucker Barnhart. Lynn, currently a pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, is a two-time All-Star and World Series champion. Barnhart, who catches for the Detroit Tigers, is a two-time Gold Glove Award winner. Ryan Pepiot, another Roundtripper alum who played collegiately at Butler, is with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Sue said it is the knowledge, experience and dedication of the staff that make Roundtripper unique.

“The quality of our teaching staff is second to none,” she said.

Softball instruction also is offered at Roundtripper. Sue said the academy said benefits players on and off the field by combining skills instruction and teamwork. She fun also is an emphasis.

“Your childhood comes and goes so quick,” Sue said.

For more, visit roundtripper.com. 

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