Hoots Name Jeff Wetzler Manager for 2023 Season
New Hoots bench boss is an assistant coach at Southwestern Illinois College
O’FALLON, Mo. – The O’Fallon Hoots, proud members of the Prospect League, announced the hiring of Jeff Wetzler as the team’s Manager for the 2023 summer season. Wetzler comes to O’Fallon after his first season as Southwestern Illinois College’s Hitting and Strength and Conditioning Coach. He replaces previous manager, Bailey Vuylsteke, who took a full-time position in minor league baseball (MiLB).
“I want to thank Bailey for his efforts in starting this 2023 Hoots team,” Hoots General Manager David Schmoll said. “I am very excited for Jeff to step into the role and watch how he continues to build the team as we prepare for our summer season. He is someone who is determined to create a culture of success for our players, while also bringing an energy to our stadium that will excite fans. I’m looking forward to him leading our team back to the top of our division and bringing a championship to O’Fallon.”
Wetzler echoed Schmoll’s excitement.
“I’m fired up to be with the Hoots.” Wetzler said. “This is a great league to be in and I’m excited to lead this team this summer!”
The Newburgh, Indiana-native is a Castle High School graduate who played collegiately at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois for two seasons, where he made a trip to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Baseball World Series in 2016. Jeff then transferred to McKendree University (IL) where he started in 35 of 39 games on the left side of the Bearcats’ infield. After his playing career ended, the infielder began his coaching career as the hitting coach and strength and conditioning coordinator at Parkland College in 2018, helping move 17 players to NCAA and NAIA schools. Wetzler then took over as the head coach for Combine Academy High School in North Carolina. In 2022, Combine Academy went 31-7 and was ranked 12th in the nation among high school baseball teams. Wetlzer is now a member of Southwestern Illinois College’s (SWIC) coaching staff, serving his first season as the Blue Storm’s Hitting and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator.
The Hoots 2023 summer schedule is available now. Single game tickets and promotional announcements will come at a later date. For up-to-the-minute information about the Hoots, visit ofallonhoots.com or follow the team on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About the O’Fallon Hoots
The O’Fallon Hoots began play in O’Fallon, Missouri in May 2020 after relocating from Hannibal, Missouri following the 2019 season. The Hoots provide fun and affordable things to do in the O’Fallon and St. Charles County areas. For tickets, merchandise, or any team information, visit ofallonhoots.com.