Although Greg Coppeta grew up in Methuen, Massachusetts, he attended the University of Southern Maine and has essentially called Maine his home ever since. The oldest of five boys, Greg is the son of the Robert and Beverly Coppeta who always supported Greg and his love of the game. Greg now resides in Westbrook with his wife of sixteen year, Melissa, their son Justin and their daughter Olivia. Professionally, Mr. Coppeta is employed by Eisai Pharmaceuticals.
As a youngster, Greg played Little League, Babe Ruth and Legion Baseball in Methuen. As a senior at Central Catholic High School, Greg posted a record of 7-0 including a no-hitter and was selected to the all Conference team. He was also invited to play in the Brockton Invitational for the top seniors in the state.
From 1988-1990, Greg attended the University of Southern Maine where he compiled a remarkable career record of 23-2 for Ed Flaherty. During his Junior and Senior years, Greg was an All-American selection as well as twice being named the ECAC player of the year. As a senior, the Lefty posted a record of 9-0 with an ERA of 1.95. In 1989, Greg and his team competed in the Division three College World Series in which USM finished 4th. According to his college pitching coach, Ken Joyce, “Coppeta’s pitching success is the result of a hellacious changeup, impeccable location and a strong will insulated with composure and savvy.”
In 1990, Greg was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 9th round. He would play four years for the Tiger’s organization reaching the double A level with the London Tigers in the Eastern League. Over his four-year minor league career, Greg recorded 27 victories while striking out 233 batters.
After his professional career, Greg returned to USM as their pitching coach in 1995.
He would coach for three years including the Division three National Championship team in 1997. Greg would later be inducted into the University of Southern Maine Sports Hall of Fame in 2001.
After a brief stint as the pitching coach at Westbrook High School, Greg shifted his focus to youth baseball coaching as a volunteer. Greg coached in the Westbrook Little League system for four years including the head coach of the all-star team in 2012. In addition, Greg has also been the head coach of the Southern Maine Tomahawks in AAU Baseball for the past three years. He is well known in Westbrook for helping out anyone at anytime. A real “class act” who continues to give back to the Westbrook baseball community. Greg has certainly made a significant contribution to baseball in the State of Maine.
