Purchase, NY - Purchase College
Athletic Director Chris Bisignano has announced the hiring of Adam
Taraska as the second-ever head baseball coach in the 11-year
history of the Panther baseball program.
Taraska, who has served as the assistant coach for the
last two seasons, replaces Bill Guerrero who stepped down from the
program to pursue other professional opportunities.
"We are excited about this appointment," Bisignano
said. "Adam is a highly thought of mentor and coach with
deep-rooted northeast ties in recruiting. He understands the
philosophy of NCAA Division III athletics and is a proven team
builder and winner."
Taraska, the Panthers' former hitting and third base coach
will begin his duties immediately.
"I am extremely appreciative and grateful that Chris gave me
this opportunity," added Taraska. "I look forward to continue
working in such a positive environment on a campus overflowing with
energy and enthusiasm."
Taraska has more than ten years of coaching experience, six
of which are at the collegiate level. Now heading into his
seventh season, he puts on the head coaching cap for the first
time.
Taraska came to Purchase in 2012 after a two-year stint at
D-I Fairfield University. Prior to his career with the Stags,
Taraska served as an assistant coach for the 2009 season at
Fairfield foe, Iona College. He coached 2010 and 2012 drafted
players to the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres during his
time with the MAAC conference. Taraska assisted at Caldwell
College in 2008; the same year the Cougars won the Central Atlantic
Collegiate Conference regular season crown and conference
tournament, advancing to the D-II Northeast Regional
Tournament.
At the high school level, Taraska spent the 2006 and 2007
seasons as head coach at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, CT. In
addition, he has been a coach for the AAU Team Connecticut Blue
Jays for 11 years, in which time he has led many teams to Top 10
regional and national finishes. He has coached at every level from
13U-18U. Most recently, he coached the CT Blue Jays 14U team in
2012.
Prior to coaching, Taraska was a decorated athlete and
four-year starter at the University of Bridgeport. Captain of
the Purple Knights in 2003, he earned a BS in Human
Services.
Coming off an incredible performance during their 2013
campaign, the Purchase baseball team is excited to begin a new
season under the guidance of Taraska. To say the least, he
assisted the team to the most successful season in program
history. They finished with a 23-19 record, competed in the
ECAC Metro Championship, and carried a roster of numerous
All-Conference winners, one All-American, and two that went pro
post-graduation. Former head coach Bill Guerrero was also
named Skyline Conference Baseball Coach of the Year for
2013.
"Coach Guerrero has been nothing but a positive influence on
me and my coaching career," added Taraska. "I'm indebted to
him for the opportunity, support, leadership, and trust he has
given me over the years. I look forward to the challenge of filling
his shoes and hope to make him proud."
With fall ball already in full swing and the spring season
quickly approaching, Taraska takes the reins and looks to lead the
Panthers to a victorious 2014 season.
-Stephanie Janasiewicz, Assistant SID