The University of New Orleans (UNO) baseball team has a rich history of competing at the highest level in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). As a member of the Southland Conference, the Privateers have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the world of college baseball. With a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for the game, the UNO baseball team has consistently produced talented players and exciting seasons for fans to enjoy.
Program History
The UNO baseball program was established in 1970 and has since become a staple of the university’s athletic department. Over the years, the Privateers have experienced their fair share of successes, including several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. In 1974, the team won its first conference title, and in 1977, they made their first appearance in the NCAA tournament. These early successes set the stage for a long history of competitive baseball at UNO.
Conference Affiliations
The University of New Orleans baseball team has been a member of several conferences throughout its history. From 1970 to 1991, the team competed in the Gulf Star Conference, before joining the Sun Belt Conference from 1992 to 2013. In 2013, the Privateers joined the Southland Conference, where they currently compete against other top-notch programs in the region. This conference affiliation has provided the team with a high level of competition and exposure, helping to attract top talent and build a strong reputation in the baseball community.
| Conference | Years of Membership |
|---|---|
| Gulf Star Conference | 1970-1991 |
| Sun Belt Conference | 1992-2013 |
| Southland Conference | 2013-present |
Notable Players and Coaches
The UNO baseball program has produced several notable players and coaches throughout its history. One of the most notable players is Johnny Giavotella, a second baseman who played for the Privateers from 2006 to 2008. Giavotella was a two-time All-American and was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the second round of the 2008 MLB draft. He went on to play for the Royals and the Los Angeles Angels, before being traded to the Baltimore Orioles. On the coaching side, Ron Maestri is one of the most successful coaches in program history, leading the team to several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances during his 14-year tenure.
Facilities and Support
The University of New Orleans baseball team plays its home games at Maestri Field, a state-of-the-art facility that was renovated in 2013. The field features a natural grass surface, a video scoreboard, and seating for over 1,000 fans. The team also has access to a weight room and training facilities that are designed to help players develop their skills and stay healthy throughout the season. With a strong commitment to providing top-notch facilities and support, the UNO athletic department has created an environment that allows the baseball team to thrive and compete at the highest level.
What conference does the University of New Orleans baseball team compete in?
+The University of New Orleans baseball team competes in the Southland Conference.
Who is the most notable player to come out of the UNO baseball program?
+Johnny Giavotella is one of the most notable players to come out of the UNO baseball program, having been a two-time All-American and playing in the major leagues for several teams.
What are the facilities like for the UNO baseball team?
+The UNO baseball team plays its home games at Maestri Field, a state-of-the-art facility that features a natural grass surface, a video scoreboard, and seating for over 1,000 fans. The team also has access to a weight room and training facilities that are designed to help players develop their skills and stay healthy throughout the season.
