A History of Baseball at Gannon University
Gannon University, a private Catholic institution with campuses in Erie, Pennsylvania, and Ruskin, Florida, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1925. While primarily known for its academic programs, Gannon also boasts a diverse athletic program, including a baseball team that has contributed to the university's legacy. This article delves into the history of baseball at Gannon University, tracing its evolution and highlighting key moments.
Early Years and Development
Gannon University's origins can be traced to 1933 when it was founded as Cathedral College by the Diocese of Erie, under the guidance of Joseph J. "Doc" Wehrle. In 1944, it transitioned into a four-year men's school, named Gannon College of Arts and Sciences in honor of Bishop John Mark Gannon, who played a crucial role in its establishment and growth.
Athletics at Gannon: A Division II Presence
Gannon University is a member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) in NCAA Division II. The university offers 19 Division II scholarship-granting varsity sports, with nine dedicated to men's teams. Among these is the baseball program, which provides student-athletes the opportunity to compete at a high level. Gannon University, along with cross-town rival Mercyhurst College, was accepted into the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference in June 2007, joining other area schools such as Pennsylvania Western University, Edinboro, and Slippery Rock University.
Baseball Program Details
The baseball team is one of the nine men's sports offered at Gannon, alongside basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, swimming, water polo, and wrestling. These programs underscore Gannon's commitment to providing a well-rounded athletic experience for its students.
Key Baseball Dates (2025 Season)
The following are selected dates from the Gannon University baseball schedule in 2025, demonstrating the team's active participation in collegiate baseball:
Read also: Erie's Basketball Legacy
- March 6, 2025: Games against Rockhurst
- March 8, 2025: Games against Point Park
- April 11, 2025: Game against Pitt-Johnstown
- April 22, 2025: Game against D'Youville
These dates provide a snapshot of the team's competitive schedule, reflecting their involvement in various matchups throughout the season. The opponents listed indicate the range of competition that Gannon's baseball team faces, contributing to the athletic experience of the student-athletes involved.
Notable Players
The following are selected names of Gannon University baseball players from the 2025 season: Drew Stangelo, Cainen Atherton, Ian Soto, Alex Bemis, Frank Kula, Connor Smith, Zach Tkatch, J. Engel, Ryan Hood, Jake Boynar, Dylan Crowley, Nick Walker.
A Broader Look at Gannon University
To fully appreciate the context of Gannon University's baseball program, it is important to consider the institution's overall history and development. Here's a timeline of key events:
- 1925: Gannon University was established.
- 1933: Established as the two-year Cathedral College by the Diocese of Erie under the leadership of Joseph J. "Doc" Wehrle.
- 1941: Cathedral College name changed to Gannon School of Arts and Science on April 28.
- 1944: The school became the four-year men's school Gannon College of Arts and Sciences, named for then-Bishop of Erie, John Mark Gannon.
- 1948: Gannon College charter approved by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with more than 1,000 students enrolled.
- 1949: Intercollegiate football program initiated.
- 1962: Beyer Hall was founded and dedicated on April 29.
- 1964: First graduate programs offered (summer sessions: teacher education, English, social sciences, guidance and counseling).
- 1969: Gannon openly accepted/admitted women. Full-time co-eds.
- 1979: The application for university status was submitted to the Department of Education.
- 1989: Gannon received its first $1 million gift by A.J. Palumbo.
- 2007: Gannon University, along with cross-town rival Mercyhurst College, was accepted into the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.
- 2014: Gannon University opens the Ruskin, Fla. campus.
- 2024: The university's board of trustees approved plans to merge the university with Ursuline College.
Other Athletics at Gannon
In addition to baseball, Gannon University has a diverse athletic program. The school's football program began with the 1949 team that compiled a perfect 8-0 and shut out six of eight opponents. The 1950 team also compiled a winning record of 6-2. However, the teams did not draw well at the box office, and the Gannon board of control voted in April 1951 to discontinue the football program. After the 1950 season, Gannon did not field a college football team for the next 38 years.
Other sports include: Acrobatics and Tumbling, Competitive Cheer, and Women’s Wrestling
Read also: Gannon University Scholarship Guide
Gannon University Today
Gannon University's campus is in downtown Erie, primarily between Peach and Myrtle Streets and 3rd and 10th Streets. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked Gannon University No. 260 in National Universities. In 2024, the university's board of trustees approved plans to merge the university with Ursuline College.
Read also: Gannon University Costs
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