Kirk McConnell comes to Northeast Texas by way of Southern Arkansas University where he held the position of hitting coach this past fall. 

After completing his playing career, McConnell joined the Division I coaching ranks at Missouri State University.  He served as student assistant coach for one season, working with Bear hitters, outfielders, and baserunners.  While at Missouri State, McConnell was a part of a program that witnessed three players selected in the Major League Baseball Amateur Draft, including one first round pick, six all-conference players, and one USA National Team member, while finishing runners-up in both the regular season and Missouri Valley Conference tournament.

McConnell began his collegiate playing career at the University of Arkansas where he lettered two years, was named a Louisville Slugger Honorable Mention Freshman All-American, and All-SEC Good Works Team. The Razorbacks made two Regional appearances and one Super Regional appearance. After two seasons McConnell transferred to Missouri State University where he lettered for two years.  McConnell was named team captain, All-Missouri Valley second team, ABCA All-Midwest Region second team, and the Bears’ Most Valuable Player.

After Missouri State University, Kirk played professionally for two seasons with the River City Rascals of the Frontier Professional Baseball League.

McConnell has spent two summers as head coach of the Columbia Angels with American Legion Baseball, leading the Angels to two District Championships and one State Championship. During these two stints, McConnell witnessed nine players move on to the collegiate ranks, and one to professional ranks.

Kirk was born and raised in Magnolia, Ark., where his parents, Cecil and Ginger, still reside.  McConnell graduated from Magnolia High School, where he was a member of two state semi-finalist teams, twice named All-Conference, one time All-State, and participated in the Arkansas High School All-Star Game. McConnell completed his bachelor of arts in history in May of 2006.