Coach Steve Bazarnic Honored with NJCAA Coaches Legacy Award
Charlotte, NC – The NJCAA has announced its first-ever honorees for the Coaches Legacy Awards presented by Nufabrx, recognizing the all-time winningest coaches in NJCAA history. Among the distinguished recipients is Allegany College of Maryland's beloved Coach Steve Bazarnic. This marks the first time in the near 90-year history of the NJCAA that coaches have been recognized in such a fashion by the Association.
Nearly 200 coaches across 28 different sports were nominated by the member colleges at which they coached. "Being able to recognize our coaches, past and present, is a wonderful thing for the NJCAA, our member institutions, the coaches, and their families," said Dr. Christopher Parker, NJCAA President and CEO. "We look forward to having many of these coaches come together for us to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions to the NJCAA later this year." All honorees will be recognized at a special luncheon on Tuesday, June 17, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel. The luncheon will precede the 2025 NJCAA Hall of Fame and Awards event, scheduled for later that day. Outreach has already begun for honorees and designees regarding attendance.
Coach Steve Bazarnic's career at Allegany College of Maryland is marked by remarkable accomplishments and records. Over his 48-year tenure, Bazarnic led the Trojans to more than 1,400 victories, nine district championships, and nine NJCAA World Series appearances. His coaching prowess earned him induction into multiple halls of fame, including the Maryland Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 1991, the NJCAA Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1996, and the NJCAA Region XX Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2000. Bazarnic's influence extended beyond wins and titles, as he developed numerous players who went on to professional careers, including John Kruk, Stan Belinda, and Joe Beimel.
Among the standout moments in Bazarnic's career are the thrilling games that defined his legacy. One such game was the Trojans' victory in the NJCAA World Series, showcasing the team's determination and Bazarnic's strategic acumen. Another memorable event was the dedication of Steve Bazarnic Field, a testament to his lasting impact on the program. Bazarnic's teams were known for their competitive spirit and ability to perform under pressure, often turning the tide in crucial matches and earning respect across the collegiate baseball community.
Reflecting on Coach Bazarnic's impact, former player and current athletic director Tommie Reams shared, "Coach Bazarnic has always been a mentor and a role model to me. His dedication to the sport and his unwavering support for his players is something I admire deeply. The department is reminded of his many years of service every day, and his legacy continues to inspire us all. There is really no one more deserving of this kind of tenure."
ACM Baseball Head Coach Mason Heyne also expressed his admiration, stating, "Coach Bazarnic is a legacy; everyone knows him, everyone is always asking about him, and you can tell that his reach is wide. He makes an impact on more than baseball to all his former colleagues. It's easy to tell how deserving he is."
Steve Bazarnic's life is a story of dedication and passion for baseball and education. Arriving in Cumberland, Maryland, in 1971 from State College, Pennsylvania, Bazarnic became Allegany College's first baseball coach. His commitment to the sport and his students was unwavering, as he not only coached but also taught hundreds of young adults and nontraditional students. Bazarnic retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations. His contributions are commemorated through the Steve Bazarnic Athletic Fund, supporting all athletic programs at ACM. To honor his 48 years of service, ACM formally named its baseball field the Steve Bazarnic Field during a ceremony in April 2023. Bazarnic is deeply loved and respected at ACM, not only for his professional achievements but also for his genuine care and mentorship. His wife, Cathy, and their family have been a constant source of support throughout his career.
Coach Bazarnic's recent recognition as one of the first-ever honorees for the NJCAA Coaches Legacy Awards presented by Nufabrx highlights his extraordinary contributions to collegiate baseball and his lasting impact on the NJCAA community. All honorees will be celebrated at a special luncheon on June 17, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, preceding the NJCAA Hall of Fame and Awards event. This prestigious recognition is a fitting tribute to a coach whose legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of Allegany College of Maryland's baseball program.
As Mike Burke wrote in 2023, "Yet he's never understood what the fuss is about, which, of course, is precisely what the fuss is about."
To see the full list of honorees, click here.
Burke, M. (2023). [It's always been Steve Bazarnic Field]. Allegany Communication Sports. [https://cumberlandsmagic.com/2023/04/14/its-always-been-steve-bazarnic-field/].
