Aug. 15, 2008

DENVER, COLO. - Metro State head baseball coach Bobby Pierce has resigned in order to accept the head coaching position at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW), Roadrunner Athletic Director Joan McDermott announced Friday.

Pierce spent the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons at Metro State after arriving from Arkansas-Little Rock.

"I would like to thank Bobby for the job that he has done over the past two seasons," said McDermott. "We are happy for him that he is moving forward with a Division I position. He really improved our program during his tenure and we wish him the best at IPFW."

Pierce led Metro State to Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) tournament berths in each of his two seasons at the helm. The Roadrunners went 55-54 in two seasons under Pierce, including a 43-34 mark in RMAC play. Pierce and Metro State had an outstanding 2008 season, going 38-19, including 30-10 in league play. Reece Gorman and Jake Palmer each earned All-American honors, while 11 Roadrunners earned all-RMAC honors.

"I would like to thank the administration, faculty and Dr. Jordan for all their support during my time," said Pierce. "I would also like to thank the student-athletes, coaching staff, alumni, family and friends of the baseball program for all their hard work and commitment to the program. Lastly, I would like to thank Joan McDermott for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to lead the baseball program. She has been very supportive of me and my family."

Pierce replaces former Mastodon coach Billy Gernon, who left IPFW for Michigan State.

Prior to his arrival at Metro State, Pierce spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Arkansas-Little Rock. He was also an assistant coach at Central Arizona College. Pierce earned a bachelor's degree from New Mexico State in 2001.

McDermott has appointed pitching coach Grant Birely as the interim coach. Birely spent the 2007-08 season on Pierce's staff. Prior to arriving at Metro State, Birely was an assistant coach at Regis Jesuit High School for two seasons. A Colorado native, Birely played under Pierce at Central Arizona. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of New Orleans in 2005.

A national search for a new head coach will begin immediately.