- Who are we? -

We believe that providing proper instruction and training is the key to developing and empowering athletes,
​and by doing so, the impact of our program reaches far beyond the field of competition.
​At the Dollhouse, we emphasize life skills including the importance of education, teamwork, commitment, and perseverance.
​It is our hope to provide lifelong character development and memories to our athletes, as well as advance the level of competition in our community.

Learn about our area awards & recognition

Trish Gardini 

Amber Layman

Trish started her softball career at Lakeshore High School. She went to Coastal Carolina where she was an Academic All American for each of the four years. Upon her return to Southwest Michigan, she was the Varsity softball coach at New Buffalo High school and named Regional Coach of the Year in 2012. Most recently, she was highlighted in the Michiana Life magazine as one of the Gamechangers of 2016. In 2008 she began with 10 local girls wanting instruction on pitching and hitting and has grown Dugout Dolls to over 125 girls a week that pitch and/or hit or do beginning fielding skills. 

Amber is our resident goofball and began her high level softball journey playing for the New Jersey Mystics in the summer of 1997. She went on to compete at the collegiate level as both a Co-Ed Competitive Cheerleader and softball player. She began coaching both cheer & softball in 2003.  As a dual sport collegiate athlete and now coach, Amber recognizes and hones in on the "detail" work it takes to get to the next level. Her softball coaching superpowers are hitting  and defense; Most notably working with our advanced level athletes in these areas to prepare them for recruitment and high levels of competition. ​
           
The impact these ladies have is easy to see, they have created a place that allows girls from neighboring communities to become friends off the field and competitors on the field. The Dollhouse has created the platform and paved the way for athletes receiving scholarships to Junior colleges, Div I, II and III softball programs. This is the ultimate reward for years of hard work. In addition, both ladies have been recognized as "40 under 40" professionals for their community impact and career achievements. 
 
​​The creation of Dugout Dolls has increased female athletic participation as well as created a place in SW Michigan where young women can not only become exemplary softball players but can grow into young women full of confidence, determination and tenacity.

​