Baseball | 7/11/2024 12:14:00 PM

Oklahoma Panhandle State University has announced the resignation of Shawn Joy from his position as Head Baseball Coach. Joy will continue to serve as Director of Alumni Relations and Assistant Athletic Director at OPSU.

Shawn Joy, who has led the OPSU Aggies' baseball program at the Grib for the past five seasons, leaves behind a legacy of achievement both on and off the field. Under his guidance, the OPSU baseball team has achieved significant milestones, including qualifying for the conference tournament every season during his tenure. Notable accomplishments include Ethan Hunt signing a professional contract in 2022, historic victories over Texas Wesleyan and OCU, and sweeping a four-game series for the first time in program history in both 2021 and 2022. In the 2024 season, the Aggies were ranked in the Top 10 in NAIA for double plays turned. Joy has coached four All-Conference players during his tenure: Colby Diduch, Lane Field, Ethan Hunt, and Markus Bracey. 

Reflecting on his time as head coach, Joy expressed his gratitude and optimism for the future of OPSU baseball, stating, "I love OPSU Baseball. I am proud of what we have accomplished on and off the field. This opportunity will allow me to spend more time with my family and focus on my role with the Alumni Association and Athletics Department. Thank you to all the players, coaches, alumni, community members, and support staff for helping this program grow. The best days are ahead for OPSU Baseball, and I look forward to supporting it." Joy added, "I am forever grateful to Dr. Dinger and Victor Esparza for their support. I also want to thank Dr. Faltyn and Meghan Mulcahy for giving me the opportunity five years ago."

In addition to his coaching achievements, Joy has overseen numerous improvements to OPSU's baseball facilities, including the naming of the field after Carroll Gribble, new dugouts and backstops, and upgrades to the press box. His initiatives also include the establishment of a yearly series at Hodgetown in Amarillo, combined with an alumni event. He has showcased his commitment to community engagement with his teams having over a thousand hours of community service in Goodwell, Texhoma, and Guymon.

Joy will expand his role within OPSU by teaching more classes in the HPE department while continuing to serve as Director of Alumni Relations and Assistant Athletic Director. His impact extends beyond the field, with the baseball team maintaining a Team GPA of 3.0 or higher for eight consecutive semesters and earning the 2019-20 Sooner Athletic Conference Team of Character Award.

OPSU expresses its sincere appreciation to Shawn Joy for his dedication and leadership as Head Baseball Coach and looks forward to his continued contributions in enhancing Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

University President Dr. Julie Dinger stated, "Shawn Joy has been a transformative leader for our baseball program, instilling a culture of success and integrity. His commitment to our student-athletes' academic and athletic development has been remarkable. We are excited to see the positive impact he will continue to have in his roles."

Athletic Director Victor Esparza added, "Coach Joy's dedication to OPSU Baseball has set a high benchmark for excellence. His leadership and passion have left an indelible mark on the program. We are grateful for his years of service and look forward to his ongoing contributions to our university community."