Veteran coach has spent 26 seasons at high school and collegiate levels
VANCOUVER — Gregg Swenson, a veteran of college baseball the past 22 years, has been hired as the new head varsity baseball coach for King’s Way Christian High School.
An Olympia native, Swenson had stops at the University of Portland, Washington State University, the University of Washington and Tacoma Community College, as well as Sehome High School during his 26 seasons as a baseball coach.
Overall, Swenson has been part of staffs that have produced 13 Major League players, including two-time Cy Young Award winner Tim Lincecum, who was also the first player to earn Pac-10 Pitcher of the Year and Freshman of the Year honors in 2004. Over 70 players have been drafted after playing on the NCAA D1 teams he has coached.
Swenson spent the past two seasons as the assistant coach/pitching coach for the University of Portland. He also served as the academic coordinator and community outreach coordinator for the Pilots. Prior to landing at UP, Swenson spent 10 seasons as the Washington State pitching coach. Swenson’s primary responsibilities at Washington State included the development and growth of the Cougar pitching staff, as well as recruiting and practice organization.
Swenson is described by King’s Way officials “as a teacher of baseball and life to his student-athletes. He is a master of mental performance who often consults with players and companies throughout the U.S.’’
Swenson earned a degree in physical education/exercise science and physiology/sports psychology from Western Washington University in 1994. In 1997, he completed his master’s degree in teaching from City University. He and his wife Diane are the parents of daughter Megan and son, Jacob.
King’s Way Christian Athletic Director Ted Buck said, “Gregg brings not only a vast experience and knowledge of coaching baseball in the Northwest, but is a man of integrity, character and faith. King’s Way baseball families are looking forward to participating in the next chapter of Knights Baseball.”
