Kennesaw State University Baseball History
The Kennesaw State Owls baseball team represents Kennesaw State University, which is located in Kennesaw, Georgia. As an NCAA Division I college baseball program, the Owls compete in Conference USA. The Kennesaw State Owls play all home games on campus at Fred Stillwell Stadium. Since the program's inception in 1984, the Owls have built a noteworthy history, achieving success at both the NAIA and NCAA Division I levels while developing players who have gone on to compete in Major League Baseball.
Early Years and NAIA Success
The Kennesaw State baseball program began in 1984. A significant milestone in the program's history occurred in 1994 when the Owls won the NAIA World Series. This victory marked a pinnacle of achievement during their time in the NAIA.
Transition to NCAA Division I
The Kennesaw State Owls transitioned to NCAA Division I competition, marking a new chapter for the baseball program. As a Division I program, the Owls have competed in Conference USA, facing off against other competitive teams.
Fred Stillwell Stadium
Fred Stillwell Stadium, located on the Kennesaw State campus in Kennesaw, Georgia, has been the home of the Owls since 1984. The stadium has a seating capacity of 900 people. Stillwell Stadium provides a home-field advantage for the Kennesaw State Owls baseball team.
Coaching and Leadership
Under the direction of Head Coach Mike Sansing, the Owls have played in one NCAA tournament. Sansing's leadership has been instrumental in shaping the program and guiding players to success.
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MLB Draft History
Over the program's 37 seasons, 55 Owls have been drafted, including Max Pentecost and Chad Jenkins who were selected in the first round of the 2014 and 2009 drafts, respectively. This demonstrates the program's ability to develop talented players who are recognized by professional baseball scouts.
Players in Major League Baseball
Since the program's inception in 1984, eight Owls have gone on to play in Major League Baseball, highlighted by 2005 World Series champion Willie Harris. The success of these players reflects the quality of the Kennesaw State baseball program.
Challenges and Adaptations
Like many other college sports programs, the Kennesaw State Owls baseball team faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In March 2020, the ASUN Conference canceled intercollegiate competitions for the remainder of the academic year, impacting the team's season. The team had to adapt to these unprecedented circumstances.
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