The 2015 ABCA/Diamond Regional Coaches of the Year were announced yesterday and Cal State Fullerton head coach Rick Vanderhook was tabbed the ABCA/Diamond West Region Coach of the Year.

Vanderhook, who just concluded his fourth season at the helm, guided the Titans to their 20th Big West title with a 16-5 record and 24th consecutive NCAA appearance. The Titans dominated conference play, winning all eight series, three of which were sweeps.  Cal State Fullerton was one of 16 teams which received the honor of hosting the NCAA Regionals.  The Titans capitalized on their home-field advantage in the postseason, sweeping  the regional and advancing to the Louisville Super Regional where they would topple the Cardinals, 2-1, for their first trip to the College World Series since 2009.   

Back in May, Vanderhook (160-80) collected his third Big West Coach of the Year honor and the school’s 13th selection. 

The ABCA, founded in 1945, is the primary professional organization for baseball coaches at the amateur level. Its over 6,600 members represent all 50 states and 23 countries. Since its initial meeting of 27 college baseball coaches in June 1945, Association membership has broadened to include eight divisions: NCAA Division I, II and III, NAIA, Junior College (NJCAA and Pacific Association Division), High School and Youth.

The ABCA/Diamond Coach of the Year Awards are sponsored by Diamond Sports. Diamond products are sold through team sporting goods stores nationwide. Product and purchase information can be found at diamond-sports.com. Diamond is the official baseball of the ABCA.