BROCKPORT, N.Y. – SUNY Brockport Head Baseball Coach
Justin Beach will step away from his coaching duties at the conclusion of the 2025 season and transition into a new role as Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance, the Department of Athletics announced on Thursday. Beach, who is the program's all-time leader with 385 career victories, has spent 22 years on the coaching staff, including the last 18 years as the Golden Eagles head baseball coach. A national search for the next head baseball coach will begin at the end of the Golden Eagles' 2025 season.
"After 24 incredible years with our baseball program—as a player, assistant coach, and for the past 18 years as head coach—I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences, growth, and relationships that have shaped my journey. It has been an absolute honor to lead this program and work alongside such dedicated athletes and staff, something I will forever cherish," said Beach. "As I step into the role of Assistant Athletic Director, I'm excited for the opportunity to continue supporting Brockport Athletics in a new capacity and contribute to the success of all our programs. The memories I've made and the bonds I've formed will always hold a special place in my heart."
Beach, who has led the Golden Eagles baseball program since 2008, has built a legacy of excellence on and off the field. Under his leadership, Brockport has captured two SUNYAC championships, made four NCAA Division III Tournament appearances, and developed numerous all-conference and All-American players. His commitment to student-athlete development, both academically and athletically, has been a defining characteristic of his tenure.
"We are incredibly grateful for Justin's dedication and leadership over the years," said Brockport Athletic Director Erick Hart. "His impact on the baseball program and the broader athletic department has been immeasurable. While we will miss his presence in the dugout, we are thrilled that he will continue serving Brockport Athletics in this new role."
As Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance, Beach will oversee NCAA and Empire 8 compliance efforts, ensuring that Brockport student-athletes, coaches, and staff adhere to all regulations and policies. His firsthand knowledge of the student-athlete experience, his institutional knowledge, and his leadership within the department will provide invaluable insight in this critical role.
"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Athletic Director Erick Hart for the incredible opportunity to transition from my role as head baseball coach to assistant athletic director. It has been an honor to serve as the head coach for 18 years, and as an alumnus of the Brockport baseball program, I take great pride in contributing to its legacy. I'm excited to continue my journey in a new capacity, working alongside an outstanding team to further elevate the athletic department and support the growth of our student-athletes."
A Legacy of Excellence on the Field
During his tenure, Beach guided Brockport to its sixth SUNYAC championship in 2023, leading the Golden Eagles to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances. His teams have consistently been among the top in the SUNYAC, with numerous All-Conference, All-Region, and All-American honorees. In 2022, Brockport posted a 33-11 record, marking the second-most wins in program history, while setting a school record with a 16-game win streak. That season, Beach also reached a personal milestone, surpassing 300 career wins.
Since taking over the program, Beach has led Brockport to 12 seasons of 20-plus wins, including two 30-win campaigns. He has coached 64 All-SUNYAC players, three SUNYAC Players of the Year, one Pitcher of the Year, and was named SUNYAC Coach of the Year three times (2011, 2014, 2021). His leadership propelled Brockport to eight SUNYAC Finals appearances and four NCAA Tournament berths.
Before taking the helm as head coach, Beach served as an assistant coach from 2004-07, helping lead Brockport to a College World Series appearance in 2004. He also played for the Golden Eagles, captaining the 2003 team to a then school-record 31 wins.
The Justin Beach Coaching Tree
Beyond his on-field success, Beach has left a lasting impact on the baseball community through his mentorship of future coaches. Numerous Brockport alumni who played for Beach have gone on to successful coaching careers at the college, high school, and professional levels, carrying forward his passion for the game and commitment to player development.
"To the supporters of Brockport Baseball and baseball alumni- we have had the honor of witnessing this program flourish in ways I never imagined. Together, we've not only continued a winning tradition but a community of heart, determination, and passion that will continue to shine bright," said Beach. "With a grateful heart for all the support, camaraderie, and dedication you've shown to our program, I thank you. While this is a bittersweet change, I'm excited about the future and the continued growth of Brockport Baseball. Thank you for being a part of this journey. The memories we've created together will always hold a special place in my story, and I look forward to working with all of you in new ways as we continue to make a lasting impact."
Several of his former players now serve as head coaches at the collegiate level, including Nick Pontari (Russell Sage), Paul Ludden (SUNY Poly), James Williamson (Tompkins Cortland CC), Seve Kowalski (SUNY Broome CC), Shawn Peake (Bryant & Stratton), Josh Appel (George Brown College), and Casey Job (Adirondack Community College). Others have continued their coaching journeys as assistant coaches, including Mike Meola (Le Moyne), Anthony Spataro (Mount Saint Mary – Division I), Jake Kenney (Alfred State), Jake Sisto (OCC/SUNY Poly) and Casey Scott (USA Baseball). Additionally, former Golden Eagle Mike McFarren is now working in professional baseball with the Oakland A's, while Maddux Minton has made an impact at Driveline Baseball, a premier baseball development organization.
At the high school level, Beach's influence is equally as widespread, with numerous former players leading programs across the region. Some notable names include Shawn Caveny, Max Zimmerman, Justin McCarthy, Trevor McCarthy, and Ray Manioci. The success of the
Justin Beach coaching tree speaks volumes about his ability to inspire and develop not only great players but also future leaders in the sport.
What Others are Saying About Coach Beach
Nick Pontari – Former Brockport student-athlete/assistant baseball coach, Current Head Coach at Russell Sage
"I'm fortunate to be one of many who have had the pleasure to both play and work for Coach Beach at Brockport. I can honestly say he's had one the greatest impacts on my life. The time I spent with Coach, learning valuable life skills that would prepare me for anything that has been thrown at me is what sets him apart from others. Coach Beach is a "find a way to get the job done" kind of person. If there's a barrier in the way, he'll find a way through it. What he teaches through baseball has shown up every day in life since graduating from Brockport. He's an amazing friend for life. He's there at any hour of the day and will be there undoubtedly for anyone that is in his life. From hour long phone conversations to sporadic times, we get to meet on the road and in the office, and anything in between… I can't be more appreciative to have played for and to know Coach Beach. To my mentor both on and off the field, congratulations on a great coaching career Skip, and best of luck in your new role."
John Morgan – Brockport baseball alum, Brockport Athletic Hall of Famer
"Justin has demonstrated leadership since the day I first met him in 2002. I had the privilege of being his teammate for two years, during which I witnessed his exceptional leadership as team captain of a record-setting squad in 2003. The following year, we had the honor of calling him "Coach," as he became an integral part of the coaching staff that led Brockport to its first College World Series appearance. Since then, it has been a true privilege to call him a friend and watch him cultivate a first-class baseball program at Brockport. I know Justin is committed to excellence and continuous improvement. One of the greatest challenges for any leaders is to leave something better than they found it. I can say with absolute certainty that Coach Beach has achieved this goal. Congratulations on an outstanding legacy of leadership, developing student-athletes, and making all Brockport alumni incredibly proud of our baseball program."
Next Steps
Coach Beach will continue his head coaching duties through the 2025 baseball season and a national search for the next head coach will begin at the end of the Golden Eagles' 2025 campaign.
