A new era for Pacelli baseball
St. Anne‑Pacelli Catholic School in Columbus has announced the hiring of Cobie Vance as its new head baseball coach, a move that brings a blend of professional playing experience and community‑focused leadership to the program.
Vance succeeds Matt Ward, who departed to lead the baseball program at Calvary Christian School. Ward’s tenure set a competitive foundation, but the administration sought a fresh perspective that could further integrate athletic development with the school’s mission of character and faith.
Vance arrives after six years in the minor leagues, where he played under contracts with the Oakland Athletics and the Miami Marlins. His career reached a peak when he advanced to Triple‑A before retiring earlier this year, bringing a depth of on‑field insight that coaches often lack.
A University of Alabama graduate with a degree in human environmental sciences, Vance was recognized in 2018 as a member of the SEC Baseball Community Service Team, underscoring his commitment to service both on and off the diamond.
Beyond his playing days, Vance has held operational and executive roles with the Pensacola Blue Wahoos and the Columbus Clingstones, experiences that sharpened his business acumen and organizational skills.
He also co‑founded the Two‑Six Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering marginalized youth through mentorship and sport, a venture that reflects his broader commitment to community development.
In a statement, Vance expressed enthusiasm about joining Pacelli, noting that he looks forward to nurturing student‑athletes not only as competitors but also as individuals grounded in character and faith.
The school’s leadership believes Vance’s blend of professional experience, academic background and service‑oriented mindset will elevate the program’s standards and foster a culture of excellence.