LONGVIEW, Texas - Paul Phillips named the 14th baseball coach in LETU history, announced by Vice President/Athletics Director Dr. Tim Sceggel Tuesday.
"I am thrilled that Paul is joining us at LeTourneau," Sceggel said. "I've had a front seat to his development over the last six years at Covenant, and he is well equipped to succeed as a head coach. Paul embodies everything we are looking for in his ability to disciple, recruit, and win. Consequently, I cannot wait to see the phenomenal ways that our king will use him in the years ahead."
Phillips takes over after serving as an assistant under head coach Doug Simons for the past six seasons at Covenant College.
"I am thankful and excited to coach at LeTourneau University, a prestigious academic institution centered on furthering the kingdom of Christ in all aspects of life," Phillips said. "I am honored to build on the foundation of Robin Harriss and look forward to working with Dr. Sceggel in a joint pursuit of excellence as we seek to cultivate disciples for our Risen King through the wonderful game of baseball."
Phillips returned to his alma mater after spending two years overseas assisting in the development of the game of baseball in southeast Asia. He coached with The Hit Factory in Singapore working with 14U, 12U, 10U and 8U club teams.
Prior to coaching, Phillips was a professional player and coach with the semi-pro team Füssen Royal Bavarians in Füssen, Germany. As a player and coach, Phillips was critical to the team's second place finish and a 22-6 overall record in 2015. He led the league in stolen bases, was second in doubles and third in on-base percentage during the season.
During his time as a member of the baseball program, he helped lead the Scots to the USA South regular season championship and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2014. Phillips played in 122 career games for Covenant and recorded a career average of .280, with 71 runs scored and 45 RBIs. He set the program record for hit-by-pitches in a career with 36 and the program's single-season mark with 19 in 2014. In his senior campaign, Phillips hit a career-best .302 with one home run, 22 RBIs, 15 stolen bases, with a .473 on-base percentage.
Additionally, Phillips was a two-time conference all-academic honoree and represented Covenant on the 2014 USA South All-Sportsmanship team. Off the diamond, he served on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter.
Phillips graduated from Covenant with a degree in interdisciplinary studies composed of sports management, business, and psychology. He and his wife, Emily (Covenant '13), were married in 2014 and the couple has three children, Dallas, Ranger and Norah.
"I humbly hope God will use me to shape and lead the young men in this program as I have been discipled and shaped by countless others, particularly my wife Emily, my father, my previous head coach Doug Simons, and Dr. Sceggel," Phillips said.
What They're Saying About Phillips
"Coach Phillips brings passion and energy to the field daily. His passion fuels his love for the game, his love for his players, and his love for his Lord." - Doug Simons, Covenant College Head Baseball Coach
"Paul Phillips is one of the most genuine and enthusiastic dudes I have ever had the pleasure of working alongside. His heart for holistic development of young men as spiritual leaders, cultural contributors, and societal influencers is unmatched. I am thrilled to see the meaningful and impactful things I know he will do as the Head Baseball Coach at LeTourneau. I am honored and incredibly grateful that I get to call him a close friend." - Caleb Abney, Lancaster Bible College Head Baseball Coach
"Paul Phillips is a great coach and passionate about building relationships and discipling players. He will get the best out of everyone he coaches and works with. LeTourneau has the right guy. He understands how to build a winning culture and will recruit and develop talent at every position. LeTourneau's baseball program will win on and off the field under Paul's leadership." - John Mitchell, former player of Paul at Covenant