For five seasons the Coopman household in the Flathead Valley has served as a home base for members of the Glacier Range Riders, a team that competes in the Pioneer Baseball League. The family’s involvement began as a simple arrangement but quickly evolved into a full‑time commitment to welcoming young athletes from across the United States.
Cory and Meredith Coopman, together with their sons Eli and Easton, have turned their residence into more than just a roof. They regularly organize outings that showcase the natural splendor of the Flathead, arrange team meals, and make the players feel like part of the family. Their hospitality has become a cornerstone of the host‑family program that the league operates for its prospects.
From Flathead to the Majors
The program attracts talent from every corner of the country, and the Coopmans have watched that talent mature under their roof. Among the eight players they have hosted, Logan VanWey stands out as a graduate who climbed to the Houston Astros roster. Other names such as Roy Robles, John 'JT' Mabry, Josh Nichols, Stu Pederson and Cullen Kafka have also passed through the Coopman home, each leaving a distinct imprint on the family’s story.
Life Beyond the Dugout
Relationships forged in the Coopman house do not end with a player’s departure. Former guests often return for visits, invite the family to weddings, and keep the connection alive through social media and occasional catch‑ups. The Coopmans say that the experience has enriched their own lives, giving their sons Eli and Easton mentors who embody the pursuit of athletic dreams while grounding them in community values.