JOSH GLEASON – Assistant Coach Also the Sports Information Director at Goshen, Josh Gleason begins his first season on the Maple Leaf coaching staff in 2009. A native of California, Gleason most recently was the Head Baseball Coach and Assistant Director of Athletics at Simpson University in Redding, Calif. In eight seasons as a player and coach, Gleason helped build the program from the ground up while leading the Red Hawks to two appearances in the NCCAA DII National Championships. As a player, Gleason’s best season was as a sophomore when he batted .385 – third highest in program history – and committed just one error, while playing every position on the infield. Prior to his time at Simpson, Gleason was a four-sport letterman at Vacaville Christian High School (Vacaville, Calif.). A three-time all league selection in baseball (.420 career average), Gleason was also picked to the all league team in soccer twice. “I have a passion for the experience and growth of college student-athletes and am excited about this opportunity to develop young men on and off the field,” Gleason said. Josh and his wife, Candace, who also works at Goshen College have been married for three years and reside in Goshen.
GARY KEISTER – Pitching Coach Gary Keister, father of head coach Josh Keister, joins the Maple Leaf staff as a full-time assistant this year after coaching on a part time basis last season. He retired last spring after 34 years as a junior high English teacher, freeing him to assume full- time pitching coach responsibilities. The elder Keister is a Goshen College alumnus who later received his Masters in Education degree from Ball State University. His previous experience as a high school coach was highlighted with a trip to the Regional Finals, and he was a member of a Little League Senior Division Indiana State Champion coaching staff. “I’m excited about being able to give my full time and energy to the GC pitching staff,” Keister said. “I look forward to instructing the pitchers in the physical, mental, and emotional aspects so that they can enjoy performing at their full levels of potential.” Gary and his wife of 33 years, Norma, reside in Goshen.
GEOFF BUCHHOLZ – Volunteer Assistant
DARREN TRONOVICH – Student Assistant
Geoff Buchholz begins his first season on the coaching staff at Goshen. “Buck” was a speedster center fielder for the Leafs from 2000-03 and will work with the outfielders and baserunners as well as coach first for Goshen. He is working on completing a masters degree in accounting.
Darren Tronovich begins his first season on the Maple Leaf staff after completing his playing career at Goshen and Muskegan CC. The former all state performer batted .276 with 26 RBIs in 2008. Tronovich is working to complete his bachelor’s in communications.
MARK SPRINGER – Volunteer Assistant
KYLE KOCH – Student Assistant
Mark Springer begins his first season as a volunteer assistant after finishing a four-year career as a Maple Leaf. Springer was second on the 2008 Goshen team with 24 appearances out of the bullpen. He is co-founder of a local graphic design business Springer Design.
Kyle Koch is in his second year as a student assistant after a twoyear playing career for the Leafs. Koch provides assistance with the outfielders as well as baserunning. He is working to complete his degree in communications with a minor in Eutrepeneurship. www.GoLeafs.net
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