Three years ago, a quiet evening on a modest baseball diamond in New Concord, Ohio, turned into a nightmare for Josh Lucier. A gunman opened fire on the field where the former collegiate pitcher was practicing, striking him in the chest. Miraculously, Lucier survived the assault, but the incident left a scar that would shape the next chapter of his life.
A Second Chance on the Mound
The physical aftermath was compounded by a torn elbow ligament that required Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the entire 2025 campaign. The recovery was grueling, but the pitcher who once thrilled crowds with his fastball began to channel the same determination into a new role on the sidelines.
Today, Lucier spends his weekdays at Haslett High School, where he assists the varsity program, sharing the nuances of the game with a new generation. His presence has been welcomed by players and coaches alike, who appreciate his willingness to give back after a career that was nearly erased by violence.
The trauma of the shooting has not stayed confined to the field. Lucier’s parents, Sara and Jay, and his girlfriend, Skylar Coules, have each felt the ripple effects of the attack, navigating a landscape of fear and uncertainty. Their support has become a cornerstone of his healing, underscoring the importance of community in the aftermath of tragedy.
Professional counseling has played a pivotal role in Lucier’s recovery, offering him tools to process the emotional turbulence that followed the assault. He has spoken openly about the therapeutic process, hoping to destigmatize mental‑health conversations among athletes.
Looking ahead, Lucier envisions a future that blends coaching with advocacy, using his platform to promote safety on sports fields and to mentor young athletes facing adversity. While his days on the mound may be behind him, his influence on the diamond continues to grow, proving that resilience can rewrite a career in unexpected ways.