Stetson University has appointed Shane Gierke as its 24th head baseball coach, officially welcoming him back during a press conference attended by various stakeholders. Director of Athletics Ricky Ray praised Gierke's character and coaching abilities, emphasizing the support he received in the decision-making process. Gierke returns to Stetson after a season at UCF, previously contributing four years to the Hatters' success, including two ASUN Tournament championships. In his address, Gierke outlined his vision focused on player development and maintaining the program's rich tradition. He is committed to building a winning culture through fundamental skills and accountability.

By the Numbers
  • Gierke helped Stetson achieve back-to-back ASUN Tournament championships in 2024 and 2025.
  • He previously served as an assistant coach for one season at UCF before returning to Stetson.
State of Play
  • Gierke's appointment comes at a time when Stetson Baseball is looking to build on past successes.
  • The program aims to attract players with a strong baseball IQ and commitment to development.
What's Next

Under Gierke's leadership, Stetson Baseball will focus on recruiting and developing talent, aiming for renewed competitive success in upcoming seasons. Expectations are high for improved performance in conferences and tournaments.

Bottom Line

Shane Gierke's return as head coach signals a strategic effort by Stetson to prioritize tradition and player development, essential for regaining prominence in collegiate baseball.