Bay College and Athletic Director Matthew Johnson has announced that Tim McIntyre will take over as the new softball coach for the Norse.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Tim McIntyre has agreed to become the head softball coach at Bay College,” said Bay College Athletic Director Matt Johnson. “From the outset, it was clear that Tim aligned perfectly with our Norse values. I had a short list of 3 or 4 qualities that were most important for the new coach to possess, and he checked all the boxes. He is extremely positive, personable, authentic, and has deep care for student-athletes and their experience. These traits will translate to outstanding recruiting and engagement with our campus and the Escanaba community.”

Coach McIntyre is no stranger to the local softball community after serving as an assistant at Escanaba High School since 2021. In the last five years, he has helped the Escanaba Eskymos compile an overall record of 152-34-1. Last season the Eskymos were ranked number one in Division Two and finished with a school record 40-5 tally.

Coach McIntyre was part of four District Championships, two Regional Championships, and two appearances in the state semi-finals. The Eskymos had 29 All-District, 20 All-Region, and 12 All-State players in the last five years. Additionally, eight players went on to play collegiate softball.

“I would like to thank the college president, Dr. Nerita Hughes, Athletic Director Matt Johnson, and the hiring committee for this amazing opportunity,” said McIntyre. “I’m very excited to be a part of the process to help build a great softball program; not only to be able to help strengthen their skills on the field, but off the field as well.

Coach McIntyre has been very involved in the youth softball scene at various levels for 15 years. He has also worked at numerous softball camps and clinics, specializing in pitching and catching. He is also a certified private pitching instructor and has worked with various pitchers throughout Upper Michigan.

“Softball and coaching have become a passion of mine,” said McIntyre. Hopefully that shows in the product we are able to put on the field. Being a part of the community is also important to me, and I hope to pass that same passion on to the program.”

McIntyre is also a 1993 Escanaba High School graduate.

“Congratulations to Coach McIntyre! Over the past five seasons at Escanaba High School, coach has brought a continued passion, hard work, and integrity to our program. We have no doubt Coach McIntyre is the right hire for Bay College. He has worked tirelessly at learning and improving at his craft. He has worked and learned from some of the best athletes this county, and country has to offer. As we now have a big hole to fill in our program with the departure of Coach McIntyre, Bay College has filled a huge hole left by the passing of Coach Garris. We couldn’t be more excited for Bay College, current players, and the future players of the school. Good Luck Coach McIntyre, Escanaba Softball will miss you!!”

– Andy Fields, Escanaba High School Softball Head Coach

“I feel that Bay will getting a great fit with their new head coach hire. Tim is a great teacher and has developed some great pitchers over his time at Escanaba. More importantly, he is passionate about the game of softball and seeing kids using softball as a tool to learn work ethic, meet new friends, become leaders, and to figure out how to become a part of something bigger than themselves. Tim will have a positive impact on his players, well beyond their playing career.”

– Randy Carlson, Negaunee High School Softball Head Coach

“Coach McIntyre was one of the best coaches I have ever had. He cares about all of his players not just on the field but off the field too. Coach McIntyre will always have a lasting impact on my life and anyone he has coached because of how much he truly cares about every player. He was always pushing us to be the best we could be not just in softball, but as a person, which is something I am forever grateful for. He is one of the most positive coaches I’ve had and helps players feel very confident in the work they have been putting in. I am incredibly grateful for the time I have had with Coach McIntyre and for all the help he has given me over the years not just from a softball standpoint but outside of that too, I wouldn’t be where I am without him! Bay College is extremely lucky to have him as a coach!”

– Grayson LaMarche, Former Player, Current player University of Michigan

“I am grateful for the skills and life lessons that I have gained from Coach Tim in the sport of softball and in real life as an employee of his. I worked closely with Tim in the outfield my last season of high school softball. I gained knowledge on the sport, as well as how to be a better leader and team player. As a former Bay College Softball player, I believe the program will benefit immensely from his knowledge on the sport, as well as becoming the best human you can be. I cannot be more thrilled and say congratulations more than I have”

– McKenna Bullen, Former player, Current Social Studies Teacher at Alpena High School

“Coach Tim is one of the most inspiring and genuine coaches I’ve ever had the privilege to play for. He truly puts his players first and leads with both heart and integrity. Coach Tim believes in the power of “we,” not “me,” and he fosters a team environment built on trust, hard work, and respect. His positivity and encouragement pushes every player to reach their potential–on and off the field. If I ever had the chance to play again, without a doubt, I’d want to be on Coach Tim’s team.”