University of South Alabama Athletics

Affectionately known as “the brat” Eddie Stanky put South Alabama baseball on the map. His hiring in 1969 during the school’s first decade, brought national attention to the University. The excellence of his teams and the style of baseball he established for the Jaguars continue to bring recognition to the school and the city of Mobile. While at South Alabama his coaching record was 488-193, winning three Sun Belt Conference Crowns and advancing to the NCAA Regionals five times. He also led the Jags to a No. 1 national ranking on two separate occasions, first being in April of 1972 when USA opened the season 16-1 and made USA’s first NCAA appearance. Coach Stanky sent 43 players to the major leagues and many of his concepts and ideas are still implemented with today’s current baseball team, including the intangible mile to begin fall practice. Today the Jag’s home baseball stadium bears his name and was dedicated in 1980.