ODESSA, Texas — Odessa College Head Baseball Coach Kurtis Lay has announced that he is stepping down from his position after completing his tenth year with the college baseball program.
Coach Lay said in a statement: "I have been blessed to have the opportunity to come back and coach at my alma mater. I would like to thank Mr. Baker, the administration team, and most of all, the players and families that have supported me throughout the years. Odessa College is a special place with special people, and I am happy to be a lifelong Wrangler. I think it is time to see what life holds outside of the game of baseball. I cannot thank Odessa College and the Odessa community enough for all their support throughout last 10 years."
Under Coach Lay, the Wranglers were nationally ranked numerous times, both by NJCCA and Perfect Game.
During his 10 years as head coach, more than 80 players continued their baseball careers in Division I, Division II and Division III schools.
One of the most notable players that Coach Lay coached was Ivan Melendez, who went on to play at the University of Texas at Austin and was selected 43rd overall in the 2022 MLB draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks.
