Calvin University named Joel Schipper its new head baseball coach on Monday.
Schipper takes over the program from Kevin Van Duyn, who announced his retirement from coaching in May after five seasons as the head baseball coach.
Prior to taking the head coaching position at Calvin, Schipper spent the last three seasons as the head baseball coach at Hastings College (Neb.). Schipper also was an assistant coach at Davenport in 2021 and spent two seasons as an assistant coach under Van Duyn at Calvin in 2019 and 2020.
A Grand Rapids native, Schipper is looking forward to returning to Calvin and taking over the program from his mentor and former boss.
"Six years ago, Coach Van Duyn hired me as one of his assistant coaches and I am grateful for all he taught me," Schipper said. "Returning to Grand Rapids, my hometown, is very special to me. Calvin University's rich athletic tradition and commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics deeply resonate with my coaching philosophy. The opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of Calvin's baseball program, while reconnecting with the community and high school coaches I've long admired, is incredibly exciting."
Hired in August of 2021 to run the baseball program at Hastings, Schipper led the team as it improved its win total in each of his three seasons, including a 14-win campaign in 2024.
He earned that head coaching opportunity after three seasons as an assistant coach at Davenport (2021) and Calvin (2019-20). At Davenport, Schipper worked as a coach and recruiting assistant as the Panthers won both the GLIAC regular season and tournament championships.
During his two seasons at Calvin, Schipper worked with outfielders and base runners. He also coached third base during games and incorporated a faith-based program into team activities to foster spiritual and personal growth and cohesion among players.
As a player, Schipper was a two-sport standout at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), where he played both baseball and football. On the diamond, Schipper appeared in 77 games (36 starts) in three seasons and hit .321 as a junior. GVSU won the GLIAC championship in each of his three seasons as a player.
On the football field, Schipper was the Lakers' starting kicker for three seasons (2014-16) and made 33 of 42 field goal attempts. During his four years with the program, GVSU made two Final Four appearances (2013 and 2015) and another Elite Eight appearance (2016). He graduated from GVSU in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in physical education and sports leadership. He later earned his master's degree in recreation and sport sciences from Ohio University in 2021.
A Grand Rapids Christian High School alum, Schipper played baseball, football and soccer and earned All-State honors in all three sports during his high school career. He was part of three state championship teams (baseball in 2012 and 2013, and football in 2012).
While he was playing at GVSU, Schipper started his coaching career at Diamonds Sports Academy in Grand Rapids. As both a head coach and instructor, Schipper worked with the program from 2014-2021.
Schipper was hired following a national search in which he separated himself from others with his energy and enthusiasm for baseball and Calvin's culture.
"I am thrilled that Coach Schipper has agreed to become our next head baseball coach," Calvin Director of Athletics Dr. Jim Timmer said. "His passion and enthusiasm for baseball, building player relationships, and Christian higher education make him a great fit at Calvin."
As he enters his new position, Schipper is thankful for the opportunity at Calvin, as well as his experience at Hastings that prepared him for his new job.
"I am honored to accept the position at Calvin University," Schipper said. "I want to thank Dr. Timmer and the entire hiring committee for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to lead the baseball program. I would also like to acknowledge BJ Pumroy and Chris Clements from Hastings College for their support and the opportunities provided during my tenure. I look forward to integrating my faith and passion for baseball as we seek to take the Calvin baseball program to new heights."