RIVERDALE, N.Y. - After six successful seasons in Riverdale, Kevin Leighton has accepted the head coaching vacancy at Fordham. Director of Athletics Bob Byrnes indicated Manhattan College will begin a national search for his successor immediately.
The Manhattan baseball program experienced its most triumphant years under Leighton's leadership, winning two MAAC Championships and three MAAC Regular-Season crowns. The Jaspers made their third trip ever to the NCAA Tournament last season, and it was their first appearance since 2006 when Leighton guided Manhattan to the Regional Finals after defeating nationally-ranked Nebraska in Lincoln, Neb.
"Manhattan is appreciative of the hard work, dedication and success Kevin brought to the baseball program. On behalf of the Jasper community, we wish Kevin the best in this next chapter of his career," said Byrnes. "Manhattan is devoted to identifying a new head coach who will uphold the winning tradition that has been established and will keep the Jaspers a regional power in the Northeast."
Leighton will leave as the third winningest coach in Manhattan Athletic history. The two-time MAAC Coach of the Year (2009, '11), earned his milestone 200th victory with the Jaspers against Siena in the 2011 MAAC Championship Game. Leighton posted six consecutive 30-win seasons during his tenure, including a program record 35 wins in 2007 & 2009. Additionally, Leighton's teams dominated MAAC competition as they posted a 110-32 (.775) league record the last six years.
Leighton took the reins at Manhattan in 2006, after serving the previous four seasons as the program's assistant coach. He mentored 52 All-MAAC recipients since joining the program in 2002, including 32 First Team selections. During his tenure, four Jaspers were named MAAC Pitcher of the Year, two earned MAAC Rookie of the Year honors, one was selected MAAC Player of the Year and one was recognized as MAAC Relief Pitcher of the Year. Eleven players Leighton coached have advanced to the professional ranks.
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