West Virginia University ended its baseball season on Saturday afternoon. Just a few hours later the fate of veteran coach Greg Van Zant was also determined. WVU Athletics Director Oliver Luck announced that Van Zant’s contract would not be renewed.
“Greg has spent a total of 26 years with the Mountaineer baseball program, including the last 18 as head coach, and we appreciate his many years of service to West Virginia University,” Luck said. “During his time here, he has contributed to our baseball program as a student-athlete, assistant and head coach, and we wish him the best.”
In a teleconference Saturday afternoon, Luck told reporters that he had previously informed Van Zant of his decision not to renew his contract. Luck said the Mountaineer baseball program needed new direction with its upcoming move to the Big 12 Conference. A national search will begin immediately.
Van Zant has spent the last 18 seasons as head coach at West Virginia, guiding the Mountaineers to a 528-451-1 career record. This season, the Mountaineers posted a 23-32 record, including a 9-18 mark in the BIG EAST.