Todd Murphy is in the midst of his 11th season as the High Point University Club Sports baseball coach. Under Murphy's direction as coach, the Panthers have made an upward trajectory in the NCBA—the National Club Baseball Association (NCBA)—at the Division I level while continuing to build on their success over the last 10 seasons.
Since Murphy's first season at the helm, which came in 2015-16, High Point University club baseball has captured two Dixie Region Central Conference crowns (2017, 2019), two Dixie Region North Conference titles (2023, 2024), a Dixie Regional Championship (2022) and made an appearance in the 2022 NCBA World Series.
Murphy's players have seen individual success on the field as well. He has had seven players named to the NCBA All-American team, Chad Thomas (OF), Logan Simmons (RP), Grant Barson (RP), Quinn DeWitt (OF), Brentan Rowe (1B), Griffith Strain III (RP) and Aidan Donahue (RP).
He recently went one-on-one about serving as the baseball coach for the High Point University Intercollegiate Club Sports team. The following were his responses:
Hometown:
Ocean, N.C.
Most memorable moment as an athlete?
My most memorable moment as an athlete was not just winning a championship on a particular team which I was a part of for many, but was rather more about being on the playing field whether it was a baseball game, Friday night football or the wrestling mat with all of my teammates and friends right there in that moment.
Most memorable moment as a coach?
My most memorable moment as a coach in my 21 years was 100 percent when High Point University won the NCBA Division II Regional Championship and participating in the DII College World Series in Butler, Pa.
What animal describes you best and why?
My spirit animal is the Dolphin, a vibrant and sociable creature known for its playful energy, intelligence, and deep connections with others. Having a strong sense of inner peace, always ready for fun and discovery while staying balanced and content. (and yes, I researched this to find my match, lol)
What is it that motivates you about coaching at High Point University?
Being a part of greatness and excellence and feeling proud of our university. Also seeing our young men and women go on to be successful in life.
How would you describe your coaching style?
In my younger days I was very fiery. Now at '57' I have evolved into a laid-back instructional mentor, teaching life lessons along the way to my players and younger coaching staff. I allow and trust my staff to do their jobs and coach, for my players, I try to be a father figure for them as they are away from home letting them know I am here for them no matter what their circumstances may be.
Most importantly, why should a student consider playing club sports at High Point University?
To be part of something special while creating memories and developing not only as a student-athlete but as a quality young man and earning a degree from one of the most elite universities across the nation. They will also gain a family and friendships they will continue to have through life, and for the experience of a lifetime playing collegiate baseball at a high level of competition with the opportunity to continue playing the game they love at the next level.
