The Kokomo Jackrabbits and Coach Hobbs are excited to welcome on two new additions to our coaching staff for the 2023 season in Austin Alexander and Drew Brantley.
Joining as Assistant Coach, Austin Alexander has coached three seasons at NAIA powerhouse, Bellevue University. He came onto the baseball staff prior to the 2021 season. In his first year on the staff, he helped guide the Bruins to their second straight NSAA Regular-Season crown and the program’s 23rd appearance in the NAIA National Tournament. During his second season he helped lead the Bruins to an outstanding year. The Bruins ended the year with a 49-13 record along with being named Conference Champs, NAIA National Tournament Champions allowing the Bruins to make their 15h appearance in the NAIA World Series.
“After coaching against Austin for the past two summers, I can honestly say that I am glad he is on my side this summer! Austin has a great baseball IQ and he challenged me every time we played each other. Having him in this league will show everyone what I have known for the past few years; Austin is a coach on the rise” said Coach Hobbs.
Also joining Hobbs’ staff this summer is a familiar face local to Kokomo in IUK coach, Drew Brantley. Drew Brantley just wrapped up his fourth season with the IU Kokomo baseball program. On July 21, 2021 Brantley became the second head coach in program history.
Brantley was promoted to Associate Head Coach on July 12th, 2019, the first in program history. His primary duties were serving as the Cougars infield coach and recruiting coordinator.
In Brantley’s first season with IUK, two Cougar infielders were awarded Gold Gloves by the River States Conference. In 2019, the Cougars won 36 games and finished Runner-Up in the River States Conference Tournament.
During the 2017 campaign, Brantley served as the infield and baserunning coach for Indiana Wesleyan. The Wildcats compiled 37 wins, a Crossroads Leagues regular season championship and a berth into the NAIA National Tournament. Two Wildcat infielders were awarded Gold Gloves by the Crossroads League. Drew Brantley is a Kokomo native, graduating from Western High School in 2011. During his senior season, Brantley earned a First Team All-State Honor and helped lead the Panthers to a 20-2 record.
“Drew is an awesome addition to our staff. Having a local talent that was a great player and now coach, only helps this team! Its always good to have another set of eyes on the field and I am looking forward to working with Drew, some of his players and talk baseballs strategy with him.”
The Jackrabbits season kicks off on the road May 29th, with the home opener in Kokomo the 31st. Tickets on sale now!
