Head coach of Sonoma State’s baseball program, John Goelz, has transformed the Seawolves into a perennial powerhouse since he took over in 1986. Goelz is a legendary figure in the world of college baseball. He has established himself as one of the most successful coaches in the region. Goelz ability to develop talent and create a winning culture has made him a sought-after mentor for young athletes. He has  over 1,100 wins, 10 conference championships, 11 NCAA tournament appearances and one California Collegiate Athletic Association Coach of the Year award in 2016. Goelz’s Impact on the sport of college baseball is undeniable.

Having spent almost 40 years at the helm, Goelz’s influences spread throughout the diamond like wildfire. One of the things that makes him such an influential figure is his commitment to excellence. He has always demanded the best from his players on and off the field. He instilled a sense of discipline, focus and determination that has helped them achieve their goals and successes.

Goelz is known for his ability to connect with his players on a personal level. He has always been a mentor and a role model to the young men and women he coaches, and has helped to shape their lives in profound ways. He is a beloved figure in the community and has touched the lives of countless people over the years. Sonoma State alumni and ex-baseball player Jake Hernandez said coach Goelz is one of the best coaches he’s played for, but also one of the most caring.

Senior outfielder Ryan Wilmoth also said that Goelz is one of the best coaches he’s had and makes the environment feel like a family. “This team is like a second family. I think that’s what this program does very well. This team has a fantastic bond that you rarely find. It’s going to be difficult to part ways with this team,” Wilmoth said.

Under Goelz leadership, the program has experienced unprecedented success both on and off the field. The Seawolves have qualified for the NCAA tournament 11 times in the past 19 seasons, including the year 2013 when Goelz coached Harmen Sidhu, the team’s star pitcher who received the Tino Martinez Award. This prestigious award is given annually to the best baseball player in Division II, equivalent to the Heisman Trophy in Division I football. Sidhu not only earned this honor, but he also became the 2013 NCAA Division II statistical champion for his impressive 0.98 ERA in 82.2 innings of work. In recognition for his outstanding achievements both on the field and in the classroom, Sidhu was named the CCAA’s Male Scholar Athlete of the Year.

Goelz is a coach who has a talent for getting his players to perform at their highest level. He has always been able to motivate his teams to perform at their best, and has instilled in them a sense of pride and determination that has helped them to overcome even the toughest challenges. Oftentimes you would hear the saying “Just how we like it” throughout the ballpark. This chant is a mantra for the Seawolves that reminds them to face any adversity head on, to endure and overcome it.