BETHLEHEM, Pa. --- The next coach in the Moravian College Department of Athletics & Recreation's Get to Know Coach series is Head Softball Coach John Byrne, who is in his 28th year with the Greyhounds as head softball coach and his 42nd year in Bethlehem since arriving at Moravian as a freshman baseball student-athlete in the fall of 1978. Byrne has guided the softball program to an 863-249 record, three NCAA Division III World Series appearances, 17 NCAA Division III playoff berths, 23 conference playoff appearances and 18 conference championships. He has also served as head volleyball coach, assistant baseball coach, assistant football coach, athletic recruting coordinator and associate athletic director and was a four-year starter on the baseball team during his 40-plus years at Moravian.
John Byrne
College: Moravian College '82
What is your favorite part of your sport? Being able to share knowledge, experience and winning traditions with younger generations to carry with them
How did your experience as a student-athlete help shape you as a coach? My experiences of playing for many fine coaches over the years has been very influential in the shaping of my coaching style and philosophy
What do you love most about coaching at Moravian College? Favorite part of coaching at Moravian is the interactions and relationships formed over the years with current and former players
What has kept you at Moravian for 10 or more years? Besides the winning tradition and championship culture, another reason would have to be the fact that I prefer to work with this level of student-athlete that has a balance of academic, athletic and social throughout their career.
As a graduate of Moravian, what made you want to work for your alma mater? I think it has to do with having a sense of ownership with the institution. You share a common bond with your players that is both special and unique.
What is your favorite place on campus and why? I would say my favorite place on campus is at the softball field and surrounding fields due to the fact I have so many fond memories there of both my coaching career and playing days.
What is your most memorable moment at Moravian? Raising NCAA National Runner-up trophy with team in 2004 after losing to University of St. Thomas in National Championship
Do you have any pre-event/game rituals or superstitions? I have sat in the same bus seat on every away trip, on every team/sport I have coached (2nd row on right behind driver). 2 Potts hot dogs for lunch before weekday home doubleheaders (onion, cheese, kraut). Use golf pencil to make line up
Sum up your coaching philosophy in one sentence? Do all of the little things so the big picture of winning falls into place, this includes teaching and respecting the game, being tough but fair, earning one's respect, giving respect and setting the highest expectations for individuals and team.
What do you look for in a recruit? Character and personality that will be compatible with our team and my coaching style. Athleticism/skill that also will be desired at a higher division
What is the best piece of advice you've been given? Do not be afraid to choose the road less traveled by. Follow your instincts and stay true to your convictions.
Who are your role models/most influential people? My Father, John C. Byrne, Sr. My Junior High School Coach, Thomas Cash. My High School Coach, Carl Guiranna and my College Coach, Gus Garcsar
Which three people, living or dead, would you like to share a meal with?Lou Gehrig, Neil Armstrong, Ronald Reagan
What have you done more of since March that you wouldn't have if sports had not been postponed? Zoom Meetings
If you weren't coaching, what would you be doing? Teaching History at a private high school or Federal Agent
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise most people. Basset Hound rescuer
Quick Hits:
Favorite Color – Green
Favorite Food – Steamed Crabs
Favorite Restaurant – Clam Bar Somers Point NJ
Favorite Movie – A Christmas Carole
Favorite TV Show – Chicago PD
Favorite Musical Artist – Springsteen
Favorite Athlete – Richie Allen
Favorite Pro Team – Phillies
Hobbies – sports memorabilia
Most Prized Possession – 2 Daughters: Rachel and Jamie
Ideal Travel Destination – Outer Banks
Your Spirit Animal – Basset Hound
Superpower you'd Like to Have – Clairvoyance
