By Ed Pierce
Longtime Pasco Hernando Community College baseball coach Steve Winterling has added athletic director to his duties at the school.
Winterling becomes just the third athletic director in school history and just completed his 23rd season as the helm of the Conquistadors baseball program, which he will continue to lead.
“I trained for this position ever since graduate school,” Winterling said. “I love sports and want to see our college continue to play at a high level and represent PHCC in a classy way. We have some outstanding athletic programs and we need to continue that strong tradition. I will be the biggest fan of all our teams.”
He grew up in Jacksonville and played baseball for Florida College and the University of South Florida before earning a master’s degree in physical education at Florida State University.
At Florida State, Winterling served as assistant baseball coach and helped lead the Seminoles to three College World Series appearances and a berth in the national championship game in 1986.
Launching the PHCC’s college baseball program in 1991, he has led the Conquistadors to national recognition and three consecutive appearances in the NJCAA Division II regional tournament.
He said he believes communication between the athletic department and the college’s administration will be an essential part of his approach to the job.
“I have really enjoyed working with our administrators and staff these first few weeks,” Winterling said. “I’m learning a lot of new things, but everyone has been tremendous in helping me.”
Over the years he has coached more than 30 Conquistador athletes who have signed to play professionally and helped numerous others go on to play for four-year schools.
In addition, Winterling teaches health and physical education at the college and serves as assistant women’s cross country coach.
When his career ends, he hopes people will be appreciative of his efforts.
“I’d want people to remember that I’ve been a very loyal and dedicated employee to the college and have lived and served the community in a positive manner.”
