Waterville, ME – Ray Bernier has been named as the Terriers new Baseball Head Coach by the Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Christopher Parsons, who expressed his excitement having Ray join the department full time. Parsons stated "having our alumni lead our athletic programs, is the biggest complement and testament that we are a true community at Thomas".
Graduating from Thomas College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business '12 and a Master of Business Administration '13, Bernier was previously serving as the pitching coach and recruiting coordinator the past five seasons under 27-year head coach Dr. Greg King. When asked his thoughts and excitement moving into the Head Coach position at his alma mater Bernier said "I'm thankful to have played for Coach King and to have coached under him over the last five seasons. If you've ever built anything, whether it be a business, a house, or a family, you know and understand the commitment and passion required to do it well. His 27 years of commitment has resulted in an incredible foundation and I look forward to the hard work that will be required to make this program a regional contender and beyond. To do that here, at my alma mater, is of the utmost importance to me".
While assisting the team the past five years, Bernier served as the Vice President for Operations at Atlantic Corporation. He has also played a big role at Messalonskee High School acting as a Head Coach and Pitching Coach from 2010-2019, producing multiple all-conference and all-state players, two regional championships, and one state title.
When asked what the biggest impact he is looking to make on the team Bernier responded saying "I've been extremely fortunate to have great mentors during my professional and athletic endeavors. All of them have shaped my outlook on coaching and how the game of baseball can prepare you for the many real-world experiences you'll face in life. I grew up in a baseball home and was blessed to coach alongside my father early in my career. His commitment and willingness to build honest relationships, allowed him to create lifelong bonds with his players that still exist to this day. That philosophy was something I quickly took note of and I have always tried to emulate that approach at each program I've been involved with. I take great pride in preparing my players for success in their personal and professional lives and hope my greatest impact on past, current, and future players of this program will exceed the game of baseball."
Bernier will begin his official duties on July 1st, 2023.