Head Coach

Payton "Skip" Fuller: Head Coach, Martha's Vineyard Sharks

A Fairhope, Alabama native with deep roots in collegiate baseball, Skip brings a wealth of experience from his current role as Assistant Coach at Coastal Alabama Community College - South, where he specializes in player development, hitting, and outfield defense. Prior to that, he honed his expertise at Fairhope High School (2022) under his father, ALABCA Hall of Famer Stu Fuller, leading the team to the Class 7A playoffs and earning multiple ASWA All-State honors for players. Skip's coaching journey truly took flight at Troy University (2017-2021), where he assisted with outfielders, hitters, and baserunners after a standout playing career there (2013-2016). Under his guidance, the Trojans posted a 42-20 record in his debut year, captured a Sun Belt Conference championship, and advanced to the NCAA Regional Tournament setting offensive records and sending talents like Brandon Lockridge (5th-round MLB draft pick, Yankees), Matt Sanders (10th-round, Mariners), and Logan Cerny (10th-round, Phillies) to the pros. Skip's touch also earned accolades for stars like 2018 All-American and Sun Belt Player of the Year Joey Denison, Gold Glove winner Lockridge, and multiple Freshman All-Americans.

With a bachelor's from Troy (2015) and a master's in Exercise Science (2019), Skip's blend of strategic pitching prep, game-calling savvy, and holistic development aligns perfectly with the Sharks' mission. Transitioning to the Sharks' dugout in 2025, he quickly made his mark by fostering a resilient squad that clinched the Southern Division title with a thrilling 2-1 series win over the Newport Gulls, highlighted by a 17-6 Game 2 rout featuring explosive offense and clutch relief pitching. Though they fell just short in the NECBL Championship Series (2-0 to the Keene Swamp Bats), Skip's leadership turned the season into a memorable rally cry, with the Sharks boasting the league's top average attendance of 2,759 per game and drawing over 60,000 fans to Vineyard Baseball Park.

Skip's coaching style emphasizes "heart and execution," as he put it after a pivotal playoff victory: "Tonight was about heart and execution. We knew we had to respond after Game 1, and our guys delivered in a big way. That sixth inning was electric, and now we're one win away from the finals. We can't wait to take this energy to Newport." Under his guidance, the Sharks not only showcased tomorrow's stars but also prioritized holistic growth, with alumni continuing to shine in professional ranks with over 50 former players drafted or signed since the team's inception, including standouts like Mason Hickman (Cleveland Indians, 2020).

Beyond the diamond, Skip is deeply committed to the Vineyard's tight-knit community, collaborating on youth clinics, school outreach, and hosting programs that connect college athletes with local families. His approachable demeanor and strategic vision align perfectly with the Sharks' 501(c)(3) mission: building character, skills, and lasting bonds through baseball.

As the Sharks gear up for 2026, Skip Fuller is poised to chase that elusive NECBL crown, one electric inning at a time. For insights on the team's future or coaching opportunities, connect via the Sharks' front office at 508-813-0380. Under Skip's watch, the bite is back—stronger than ever.