DeLAND, Fla. - As Stetson baseball gears up for its season-opener on February 16, the team has announced the promotion of Shane Gierke to Associate Head Coach.

Gierke joined Head Coach Steve Trimper's staff on July 23, 2021, and has been an integral part of the team since then, notably serving as Stetson's recruiting coordinator.

Having excelled in his role as an assistant coach, Gierke's efforts were recognized when he was named one of the top 100 assistant coaches in Division 1 baseball.

Trimper expressed his admiration for Gierke's contributions, stating, "Since Shane joined us in the summer of 2021, he has not only excelled in working with our hitters and catchers but has also elevated our program to an elite level through his recruiting efforts with quality student-athletes. Shane is perhaps the most tireless worker I have ever surrounded myself with. His infectious personality, coupled with his tenacious work ethic, will undoubtedly contribute to Stetson baseball reaching new heights. This promotion is well-deserved!" Gierke's journey includes coaching stints at Troy and West Florida, the latter being his alma mater where he graduated in 2003. He spent six seasons as an assistant coach/recruiting coordinator for the Troy baseball program after 12 seasons as an Assistant Head Coach at the University of West Florida.

In his new role, Gierke aims to play a crucial part in guiding Stetson to the ASUN Championship following last season's impressive 35-23 record. Alongside the staff changes, Stetson faces high expectations, having been voted to finish fourth in the ASUN Preseason poll.

About Stetson University Athletics: Stetson University's Athletics Program is driven by a shared purpose. It is what inspires, motivates and binds us together. More than a task, a reason for being. THE HATTER PURPOSE is to create and provide an experience of a lifetime through teamwork and relationships to achieve excellence. This purpose is achieved through five Core Values: Communication, Integrity, Excellence, Value People and Commitment. To learn more about the HATS program and our Core Values, visit GoHatters.com/HATS.

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