A New Era for Stetson Baseball
Stetson University announced this week that Shane Gierke will take over as the program’s new head baseball coach, filling the vacancy left by Steve Trimper, who announced his retirement on July 15 after ten years leading the Hatters.
Gierke, an Apopka native and alumnus of Dr. Phillips High School, returns to the university where he previously served as associate head coach and recruiting coordinator from 2021 through 2025, a period during which the team captured consecutive ASUN Tournament titles in 2024 and 2025.
His tenure at UCF last season added another layer of experience, as he helped the Knights’ staff navigate a competitive schedule while continuing to mentor players who have gone on to professional contracts.
Gierke’s track record includes the development of 21 All‑Americans, 85 all‑conference selections and 32 professional players, achievements that earned him a spot on D1Baseball’s list of the top 100 assistants for the 2024 season.
In a statement, Gierke expressed gratitude for the opportunity, pledging to build a “player‑first” program that emphasizes growth, competition and community engagement.
Legacy of Success
Steve Trimper’s decade at the helm produced two ASUN Tournament championships and a steady rise in program competitiveness, laying a foundation that Gierke is poised to expand.
The university’s athletic director, Christopher Roellke, highlighted Gierke’s deep familiarity with the program and his proven ability to recruit top talent, stating that the hire positions Stetson for continued success on the national stage.
Ricky Ray, a former player and now a key figure in the program, echoed the sentiment, noting that Gierke’s leadership style and commitment to excellence have already inspired the current roster.
The move also reflects a broader trend of internal promotions within the ASUN Conference, where programs increasingly look to former assistants to sustain momentum and cultural continuity.
Looking Ahead
The Hatters enter the upcoming season with high expectations, armed with a recruiting class that Gierke helped assemble and a coaching philosophy that blends tradition with innovative player development.