Jeff Whitfield Position: Assistant Coach Experience: 2nd Year

Jeff Whitfield is entering his first season as an assistant coach with the Furman baseball program. In his new position with the Paladins, he will direct the squad's catchers and hitters.

A three-year starter and all-region catcher at Anderson's T.L. Hanna High School, he attended Lander (S.C.) University in Greenwood, 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 an NCAA Division II record 45 times during his career.

Holder of bachelor of science degrees from Lander in exercise studies and physical eduction, he played one year of professional ball with the Yuma Scorpions, an independent team in the Golden Baseball League in Arizona and California.

After returning to the Upstate, he has held 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 the past three years. His classroom teaching experience includes stints at Belton Elementary and Middle Schools, Lone Oak Elementary School, and Greer Middle School.

A native of Anderson, Whifield, 27, is single.