Jeff Whitfield is in his second year as assistant coach at College of Charleston.
Whitfield, who was previously the associate head coach at former Southern Conference rival Furman, works with CofC's hitters and outfielders as well as heads up recruiting for the program.
“Coach Whitfield did an exceptional job in his eight years at Furman,” Heath said. “The relationships he made with his players and folks at Furman fits in perfectly here at CofC. Jeff’s experience recruiting the state of South Carolina is a tremendous, quality addition to our staff.”
After eight seasons as a member of Furman’s coaching staff, Whitfield was promoted from assistant coach to associate head coach. In addition to coaching the Paladins’ catchers and hitters, he also served as the program’s recruiting coordinator.
“I'm excited to help bring this program to the next level,” Whitfield said. “Matt (Heath) is someone I have respected since CofC was in the SoCon and we’ve had some great matchups against each other over the last eight years. I really respect how he utilizes his staff and am very excited for the opportunity to help him transition into being a head coach.”
A three-year starter and all-region catcher at T.L. Hanna High School in his hometown of Anderson, S.C., Whitfield attended Lander University, where he started in 190 games for the Senators over four seasons and served as team captain in 2004. A four-time Peach Belt Conference Academic Team selection, he was hit-by-pitch a NCAA Division II record 45 times during his career.
“Being born and raised in the state of South Carolina, playing high school and college ball, and coaching this long has helped me gain some great relationships around the state,” Whitfield said. “This program has all the tools, to not only bring in the best recruits in the state, but also be the best team in South Carolina on a consistent basis.”
Whitfield earned a bachelor’s degree from Lander in exercise studies and physical education. After graduation, he played two years of professional ball with the Yuma Scorpions, an independent team in the Golden Baseball League in Arizona and California.
He returned to the Upstate holding a number of teaching and coaching positions including instructor at the Ballpark of Anderson, assistant coach at Anderson University and assistant coach at Dorman High School. He has also coached the Upstate Mavericks 18U and 17U teams.
Whitfield is married to the former Kristen McLeod, who is from Walterboro, S.C. The couple are proud parents of two daughters: Kylie (4) and McKenna (3).
