Coaching Staff

Men's Baseball Coach Joel Johnson

Joel Johnson has been head coach of the Bryan Lions since December 2003. "Taking over the team in mid-year was a tough transition but well worth it. It was a tough year in a lot of ways, but the foundation was laid to build a strong and competitive program for years to come," the coach said. 

Coach Johnson is entering his 12th season as a college head coach. His previous experience includes two years at Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minn., and five years at Toccoa Falls College in Toccoa, Ga.

His playing career was at Southeastern College in Lakeland, Fla. He played center field and pitched during his three-year career.

Johnson and his wife Sandy have been married fifteen years and have four children (Warren, 12; Dylan, 10; Amberlee, 8; and Makenzie, 7).

Assistant Coach Jack Traylor

Dr. Traylor brings an energy to this program that is greatly appreciated by all the coaches and the players. Coach Traylor serves as the bench coach during games and works with the infielders during practice sessions.

Assistant Coach Taylor Hasty - Pitching Coach

Taylor is entering his second season coaching with the Lions after ending his playing career in 2006.  He serves as the Baseball Recruiting Coordinator and handles the pitching staff.  "Taylor brings a great knowledge and enthusiasm to his job. He spends countless hours recruiting for us and puts as much time if not more into developing a championship attitude within our pitching staff. His desire is to see our program grow and get better while also developing these young men. He'll make a great head coach someday"  says Coach Joel Johnson.

Assistant Coach Drew Friedrich- Hitting

Drew Friedrich joins the Lions this season after completing a successful career on the diamond at Bryan. Friedrich is the only player in program history to be named First-Team All Appalachian Athletic Conference, and holds the single season records for Home Runs, Doubles and RBI's, as well as the records for most career Home Runs and RBI's. Drew will work with the hitters to develop a strong approach at the plate as well as helping them build strength in the weight room.  Johnson had this to say about Friedrich: "We are thrilled to have Drew join our staff. He was a leader on the diamond for us as a player, and I know he'll be a leader in the dugout as well. It's always good to have former players coach with you, as they know your system, your tendencies, etc."

Assistant Coach Mike Kinney - Catchers

Coach Kinney is in his first year with the Lions.  Kinney's playing career includes two years at Tennessee Tech and also involved playing for Team USA.  "Mike is really developing our young talent and laying some groundwork for the future of our team. We have some tremendous talent behind the plate and I think Mike will be a huge help to those guys. He brings high level experience to our staff, and we look forward to seeing his impact this season" comments Joel Johnson