Washburn University Announces a Baseball Coaching Change

Topeka, Kan. - Washburn University has announced a leadership change in the Ichabod Baseball program following the resignation of head coach Harley Douglas. Assistant coach Connor Crimmins has been named the interim head coach.

"Coach Douglas stepped into a challenging situation following the passing of Coach Steve Anson, and we are grateful for his leadership during that transition," said Loren Ferré, director of athletics, Washburn University. "As a former Ichabod student-athlete, he invested deeply in our baseball program and played an important role in the recent improvements to Falley Field and Anson Stadium. We thank Harley for his contributions to Washburn Baseball."

Douglas spent 12 seasons as the Ichabod head coach after three seasons as an assistant coach. He went 305-272 as Washburn's head coach leading the Ichabods to their only NCAA regional appearance in 2022.

"Wearing Washburn across my chest has been nothing short of one of the most amazing opportunities in my coaching and playing career," Douglas said. "I hold this university in the very highest regard and always will.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to coach at Washburn for more than 15 years and to work with so many outstanding student-athletes. This has been a difficult decision, and one I've wrestled with for the past several weeks. I know it's time to focus on being more present for my family - my wife, my children and now our grandchildren. It's time to hang up the baseball hat and focus on my role as a husband, father and grandpa."

Douglas has coached a total of 81 All-MIAA selections, including one MIAA Player and Pitcher of the Year and five MIAA first team selections. He has also coached two MLB draftees, David Gauntt who was selected by the Miami Marlins during the 2016 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft, and Casey Steward who went to the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2023 draft. Several other Ichabods during Douglas' tenure have gone on to sign professional contracts in numerous leagues across North America.

Douglas played for the Ichabods from 1997-2000. Douglas' standout performance during his career has his name etched throughout the Washburn record book as he is listed third in school history in triples (11), fourth in stolen bases (74), 12th in runs scored (136), while his .362 career batting average is the 14th highest in school history.

Former Ichabod Connor Crimmins has been an assistant for the Ichabods since 2018 after spending two seasons as a graduate assistant at Kansas State University. Crimmins also coached the Topeka Golden Giants for two seasons. Crimmins played for the Ichabods from 2012-15 and was also a member of the Washburn football team.

"I'm grateful for this opportunity, and looking forward to connecting with current and incoming players as we gear up for the start of the fall semester," Crimmins said.

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