Coach Steve has been a dedicated assistant coach with the Ruthless Fastpitch Softball Organization for the past four years. Working alongside Coach Tara, he has played an integral role in developing athletes from the 10U level through the current 14U team. Known for his commitment to player growth and team success, Coach Steve brings consistency, energy, and a strong understanding of the game to the program.

Hemal Parikh brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a proven track record of success to the NJ Ruthless 16U program. With over a decade of coaching at both the baseball and softball levels, Hemal has consistently developed players and teams to compete at the highest levels.
On the baseball side, Hemal has accumulated 9 years of coaching experience, highlighted by leading a 12U Little League team to a State Championship. His impact extends beyond the field, having helped develop multiple athletes — including three players who have gone on to play professional baseball in MLB minor league systems.
In the softball world, Hemal has spent 11 years coaching travel teams, earning national recognition along the way. His accomplishments include winning a 16U National Championship and finishing as National Runner-Up at the 14U level in Maryland. He has also led teams to a Runner-Up finish at the prestigious Aunt Rosie’s Tournament, along with numerous strong showings across highly competitive events.
Known for his ability to develop talent, instill confidence, and build a winning culture, Hemal is committed to helping players grow both on and off the field. His coaching philosophy emphasizes hard work, accountability, and a love for the game — values that align perfectly with the NJ Ruthless mission.

Tara grew up in Jackson Township and attended Jackson Memorial High School. Tara played 3^rd base on the JMHS Varsity Softball team, where she played for 3 years. Tara was an assistant coach for Jackson Softball Organization 10U travel between 2009-2010. Softball has been a huge part of my life since I was 10 years old. The outcome of any game is never certain, you can never give up, always strive to do your best to help the team and keep a positive attitude.  Tara wants to give every girl the opportunity to enjoy playing the game and learning how to play the same way she did with positive, never give up attitude. Tara also coach’s other sports in Jackson. This will be her 2^nd year as coach for the Ruthless program.

Frank Iovine was honored as the 2021 Assistant Coach of the Year by the Easton/NFCA (National Fastpitch Softball Coaches Association), recognizing his impact and dedication to the game. He is a certified Intermediate-Level High Performance Pitching Instructor under the legendary Rick Pauly, specializing in Internal Rotation (IR) mechanics, and is currently pursuing his Elite-level certification.

Frank expanded his coaching experience to the collegiate level during the 2022–2023 season as an assistant coach at Ocean County College, further strengthening his ability to develop players at the next level.

His coaching journey began in 2013 with the Toms River Girls Softball League (TRGSL). As a father of three softball players, Frank has been deeply committed to the game, coaching athletes from tee-ball through 18U. Since joining the travel circuit in 2016 with a 10U team, he has continued to coach competitive travel softball, helping players reach their full potential.

Frank is passionate about developing not just strong athletes, but confident, resilient young women. He believes the lessons learned through softball—teamwork, accountability, and perseverance—extend far beyond the field. His coaching philosophy centers on maintaining a positive attitude, working hard, and enjoying the game, because at its core, softball is meant to be fun.

He maintains active USSSA volunteer status, including all required certifications, training, and background checks.