Aug. 26, 2008

Fresno State baseball coach Mike Batesole announced the hiring of Pat Waer as an assistant coach. Waer joins the staff as a full-time assistant coach after serving as the volunteer assistant coach last season.

"Pat Waer has been a very big part of our success both in 2006 when we started this run of three straight WAC Championships and three straight WAC Tournament Championships, and this year when we were National Champions," said Batesole.

Waer replaces Mike Mayne and his primary duties include serving as the team's first base coach, outfield instructor, and recruiting.

"I feel fortunate to be trusted to take on a full-time role," said Waer. "It was humbling to be a part of the program as a volunteer and now fortunate to be involved full-time."

Waer joined Fresno State with experience coaching in the Central Valley. Before joining the Bulldogs, Waer spent eleven years coaching at the high school and junior college level. In 2007, Waer coached at Fresno City College as the hitting and catching coach.

"He brings a work ethic and baseball knowledge that we could not replace," said Batesole. "We could not be happier than we are to have him as a full-time Bulldog."

Prior to joining Fresno State in 2006, Waer served as the head coach at Central High School from 2002 -2005. During his tenure at Central, he recorded a 57-28-1 record and a .662 winning percentage. In addition, Waer was named the 2004 Tri-River Athletic Conference Coach of the Year, and received the 100 victory-club award from the California Baseball Coaches Association.

Waer began his playing career at Clovis West before moving to Spokane, Wash., where he competed with Mead High School. In 1989, the Panthers were the Washington State runner-up. Waer returned to the valley playing two seasons at Bakersfield College, before transferring to Washington State. At WSU, Waer played for Bobo Brayton while catching and playing outfield.

"Join the State, Fresno State!" The Bulldogs take the road as they travel to take on Cal State Bakersfield on Friday, August 29th at 7 pm. The Bulldogs return home on Sunday, August 31st as they host Cal Poly at Bulldog Stadium at 1 pm. Tickets for the home game on the 31st are buy one get one free at the Bulldog Ticket Office.