Marty Gordon
NRVsports@ourvalley.org
Just after the Bruins were knocked out of last week’s 4D regional tournament, baseball Head Coach Eric Morgan announced he was retiring.
“My time at BHS has been short, but exciting,” he said. “In the four years here coaching, we have played in the regional playoffs two times. It has been great to work with these young men over the years and to see them develop each day we practice.”
He officially retires from baseball after 20 years of coaching having compiled a record of 298-127.
“I have spent more hours with other family’s children than my own. It is time to dedicate myself to my family now. The timing is right because my kids 5- and 8-years old and are into their own sports. I want to be there for them as I have been for others,” Morgan continued.
The skipper came to Blacksburg in the midst of a lot fanfare, having coached successful programs in Florida and West Virginia. He also had assistant coaching experience at several small colleges.
In that time, he had 19 players drafted in the MLB draft, including a first and second round selection. Three have made it to the major leagues and one to the NFL as a starting quarterback.
He feels Blacksburg players have improved their baseball IQ and worked really hard to implement those strategies into the games.
“Our record is no indication of how hard the players have worked in practices. Baseball has taught them to stay humble and stay hungry for success. Each player has developed in areas of their own strengths,” said Martin.
“I have shared the strategies that the elite universities employ and have provided the drills that, when practiced correctly, will lead to success. We (Blacksburg) have some young players returning with a large senior class next year. I am certain that these strategies will set them up for a great season next year.”
Blacksburg High School will begin looking for a new varsity head baseball coach right away.
Two other Montgomery County schools are also seeking head coaches after resignations at Christiansburg and Auburn high schools.
Brett Sherfy is out as cross country coach at Christiansburg, and Jeff Carter has resigned from his post as wrestling coach at Auburn. Both positions are currently being advertised.
