Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) is a private Christian university located in Nampa, Idaho. The university is part of the Nazarene International Education Association and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. NNU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including a strong athletic program. One of the notable sports teams at NNU is the baseball team, which competes in the NCAA Division II Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC).
History of NNU Baseball
The NNU baseball team has a rich history, dating back to the 1960s. Over the years, the team has experienced its fair share of successes and challenges. In the early years, the team competed in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) and won several conference championships. In 2001, NNU made the transition to the NCAA Division II and joined the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC). Since then, the team has continued to compete at a high level, winning several conference championships and making appearances in the NCAA Division II tournament.
Recent Successes
In recent years, the NNU baseball team has experienced significant success. In 2018, the team won the GNAC championship and advanced to the NCAA Division II tournament, where they lost in the regional finals. In 2019, the team repeated as GNAC champions and again advanced to the NCAA Division II tournament, where they were eliminated in the regional semifinals.
Coaching Staff
The NNU baseball team is led by a experienced coaching staff. Head Coach, Joe Pfenning, has been at the helm of the program since 2001 and has led the team to several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. Coach Pfenning is assisted by a staff of experienced coaches, including pitching coach, Alex Guerrero, and hitting coach, Ryan Schilter.
Player Development
One of the key strengths of the NNU baseball program is its ability to develop players. The coaching staff places a strong emphasis on individual player development, and the team has produced several players who have gone on to play professionally. In 2019, NNU had two players drafted in the MLB draft, including pitcher, Jake Pfenning, who was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 15th round.
Facilities
The NNU baseball team plays its home games at Vail Field, a state-of-the-art facility that features a natural grass playing surface, dugouts, and a press box. The field is surrounded by a scenic hillside, providing a unique and enjoyable atmosphere for fans. In addition to Vail Field, the team also has access to a indoor hitting facility and a strength and conditioning center.
Schedule and Results
The NNU baseball team competes in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC), which consists of 10 teams from the northwestern United States. The team plays a 40-game conference schedule, with 20 games at home and 20 games on the road. The team also plays several non-conference games against teams from other NCAA Division II conferences.
Gallery of NNU Baseball
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the NNU baseball team's home stadium?
+The NNU baseball team plays its home games at Vail Field.
What conference does the NNU baseball team compete in?
+The NNU baseball team competes in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC).
Who is the head coach of the NNU baseball team?
+The head coach of the NNU baseball team is Joe Pfenning.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Northwest Nazarene University baseball team. From its rich history to its recent successes, the team has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II. With its experienced coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to player development, the NNU baseball team is poised for continued success in the years to come.