Pikeville, KY – UPIKE Director of Athletics Kelly Wells has accepted the resignation of Casey Hamilton from his position of Head Baseball Coach.

Hamilton spent two seasons with the Bears, accepting the head coaching position prior to the 2019-20 season. He departs for an opportunity at LSU-Shreveport as an assistant baseball coach.

In two seasons with the Bears, Hamilton worked to bring in young talent, also adding a handful of strong arms to the rotation. The 2020-21 season saw growth from the younger guys and continued development from the returning core. The team finished 12-34 through a tough schedule that included several ranked opponents. Hamilton notched his first conference win in his MSC debut in 2019, taking down Lindsey Wilson 6-2. In 2021, the team pulled together its first MSC series victory under Hamilton at home against Shawnee State.

Prior to his time at UPIKE, Hamilton served as the associate head coach at NCAA DII Kentucky Wesleyan in 2019. In three years with KWC, Hamilton helped coach the team to three straight GMAC finals the 2019 GMAC pitcher of the year.

"We would like to extend a thank you to Coach Hamilton for his service to UPIKE baseball." said Athletics Director Kelly Wells, "we wish Casey and his family the best in their next chapter"

At his next stop, Hamilton will coach alongside second year head coach Brad Neffendorf at LSU-Shreveport. Neffendorf and company have found success in the last two seasons, managing several national rankings, a RRAC Championship, and an NAIA World Series appearance this past year.

"I have enjoyed my time here at the University of Pikeville," said Hamilton, "I want to thank Kelly Wells for everything he's done for my family and I. After prayer and discussion with family, I believe this is the right move for my family and I."

Coach Hamilton's resignation, effective July 9^th, will mark the beginning of a nationwide search to find the next head coach of UPIKE Baseball.