ELI THOMAS
The Chronicle
COTTAGE GROVE – Aaron Merrill, a 37-year coaching veteran who led South Eugene High School’s junior varsity team the past two years, has been hired as Cottage Grove’s new coach, athletic director Garrett Bridgens announced Dec. 19.
Merrill was head coach at Springfield High School from 2018-22.
Bridgens said the hiring process included a committee of Lions’ student-athletes, parents, school administrators, and school staff; a current head coach for another sport at the school also participated, Bridgens said.
“We were impressed not only with Aaron’s extensive baseball background, but with his commitment to developing young people into responsible, well-rounded adults,” Bridgens said. “His emphasis on academics, family, and baseball aligns strongly with our values and the expectations we have for our athletic programs.”
Merrill will be taking over a Lions program that has not had a record above .500 since 2017.
The Lions compiled a 22-51 record in three seasons under previous head coach Nathan Rheuban.
“Success doesn’t come from the win and loss columns – it comes from the quality of the student-athlete you put out into the real world,” Merrill said.
“We are going to compete every day to be the best we can be in school, in baseball, and in life, while building a program grounded in accountability, growth, and pride in wearing the Lion uniform. Go Lions!”
The Lions graduated only two seniors from last year’s team, so Merrill should have a roster with significant varsity experience.
However, the Class 4A Sky Em League is competitive.
Marist Catholic and Junction City finished last season ranked as the top two teams in 4A, and Marist Catholic appeared in the state championship game.
“With 37 years of coaching experience and a clear vision for student-athlete development, coach Merrill brings leadership, passion, and a commitment to excellence to Lions Baseball,” Bridgens said.
