Austin Promoted to Head Coach of Baker Softball Program

BALDWIN CITY, Kan. - Baker University Athletic Director Susan Decker announced the promotion of Tony Austin to head coach of the Baker softball program.

"I'm very grateful for Coach Austin's leadership and I'm excited to announce him as our next head softball coach at Baker University," said Decker. "His passion, dedication and love for the game, as well as his loyalty to the student-athletes, has shown through the last several weeks and Baker is truly blessed to have him leading our softball program. I look forward to what the future holds for the program and welcome him to the Baker family."

Joining the staff as an assistant coach in the fall, Austin is in his first season at Baker and has helped guide the team to a 32-12 record after the Wildcats wrapped up their 2024 regular season on Wednesday.

"I couldn't be more thankful and appreciative of the opportunity to coach at such an amazing university," said Austin. "From the first time I stepped on campus, I could feel the positive energy and everyone was so friendly that I could tell they were really enjoying their time at Baker. That was exactly the atmosphere I was looking for and everyone has welcomed my family and I with open arms."

Prior to coming to Baldwin City, Austin served as an assistant coach for fellow Heart of America Conference team Park for two seasons, helping the Pirates to earn their first 20-win campaign in six years after posting a 21-22 record last year.

With over 20 years of coaching experience, he has been a travel ball coach within the Originals KC organization since 2014.

"Having the privilege to work with such a great group of student-athletes has made my experience here very special," added Austin. "Being around a team that truly respects each other and loves the game as much as this group does is such a blessing, they are the reason why I do this. We all share the same passion for the game and I could not be more excited to call Baker University my home."

Austin takes over head coaching duties for Sam White, who recently resigned from the position.

Winning nine of their last 10 games to close out the regular season, the Wildcats will await the final seeding for the 2024 Heart Softball Championships which are set to take place on May 2-5 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

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