DeLAND, Fla. — Stetson University officially introduced Shane Gierke as the 24th head coach in program history Thursday morning during an introductory press conference in the Stetson Room, welcoming back a familiar face to lead one of the nation's most tradition-rich baseball programs.
Director of Athletics Ricky Ray introduced Gierke before family, alumni, student-athletes, university administrators and community members, highlighting the impact Gierke has already made on the program and the overwhelming support he received throughout the search process. Ray said the decision was driven as much by Gierke's character and relationships as his coaching résumé.
"We did go get the right guy," Ray said. "I'm excited he said yes and thrilled for what's ahead."
Gierke returns to DeLand after spending the 2026 season as an assistant coach at UCF. He previously spent four seasons on the Stetson coaching staff, helping the Hatters capture back-to-back ASUN Tournament championships and consecutive NCAA Regional appearances in 2024 and 2025.
Addressing the crowd, Gierke thanked President Christopher F. Roellke, Ray, his family, former coaches and mentors, colleagues and players who helped shape his coaching journey before outlining his vision for the future of Stetson Baseball.
"I'm not the guy that's going to stand up here and talk about Omaha and Regionals," Gierke said. "What I will promise you today is that this program will work tirelessly to provide a product that will make Stetson, our alumni and the city of DeLand proud."
Gierke emphasized building a program rooted in player development, accountability and fundamentals while honoring the tradition established by generations of Hatters before him.
"I'm a winner and we will win," Gierke said. "We will recruit players that have a high baseball IQ with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove. Developing our players on and off the field will be a daily mission. Being a fundamentally driven baseball team will be the core of this program."
He concluded his remarks with a quote from Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin that he said will continue to define his program's culture.
"It's not what you're capable of. It's what you're willing to do. I know plenty of people that are capable. I know fewer that are willing. Will is a powerful word. Ask yourself, what are you willing to do?"
Following the formal introduction, Gierke met with members of the media before greeting alumni, supporters and members of the Stetson community in attendance.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
