Ryan Iliff has been named the next head baseball coach for the University of Jamestown’s Jimmie baseball program, stepping into a role that has been shaped by years of close collaboration with longtime mentor Tom Hager.
A Legacy of Leadership
Iliff’s connection to the program stretches back to his playing days from 2008 to 2011, when he earned a reputation as a left‑handed pitcher who helped the 2008 team compete in the NAIA College World Series. His standout performance earned Dakota Athletic Conference All‑Conference honors in 2011 and placed him among the program’s all‑time leaders in several pitching categories.
Since joining the coaching staff in 2012, Iliff has been instrumental in guiding the Jimmies to multiple conference championships and national tournament appearances. His ability to develop student‑athletes has been cited repeatedly as a key factor in the team’s sustained success.
University leaders, including Mistro, expressed complete confidence in Iliff’s capacity to build on the foundation established by Coach Hager. Hager highlighted Iliff’s deep knowledge of the program and his talent for nurturing young talent, while Iliff himself described the appointment as both humbling and deeply personal, expressing gratitude for the lessons learned under Hager’s guidance.