Thursday, January 28, 2010

MACON, Ga. - UNF baseball knows only one head coach, but when the 2010 season ends, so will the Dusty Rhodes era in Jacksonville, Fla.

In 22 seasons, Rhodes holds a record of 879-420 at UNF, leading the Ospreys to 13 conference titles, 16 postseason appearances and five trips to either NAIA or division II college world series.

“We have had to build this program,” Rhodes said. “We have gone from NAIA to NCAA division II to this season being a full member of Division I.”

Rhodes’ final season ranks as the first for UNF baseball as a full member of Division I. The Florida Southern College graduate sees the Ospreys like a father sees a son. Rhodes raised the program from its infancy and in 2010 the program reached its ultimate goal of being a full member of Division I. 

“This is what we have wanted since day one.” Rhodes said. “Our goal has always been to reach this level. It took a bit longer then we thought, but getting this team on this level has always been the goal.”

Under his guidance, UNF has posted 12 seasons with 40 or more wins, including three 50 win seasons. However the time has come from Rhodes to step aside and let another man guide his program into Division I. Replacing Rhodes will be no each task as he has posted a .676 winning percentage over 22 seasons.