Munns departing after 10 seasons at William Woods

Will become head baseball coach at Columbia College

Columbia College is hoping Darren Munns can replicate the remarkable run of success he had with the William Woods University baseball program.

William Woods announced Tuesday that Munns has resigned after 10 years with the Owls to become the new head coach at American Midwest Conference rival Columbia College.

"I'm grateful for the 10 seasons I served as the head baseball coach at William Woods," Munns said. "My positive experience was made possible by William Woods' great student-athletes, coaches, staff, and faculty.

"I cherish the friendships and memories created, and thoroughly enjoyed my tenure as an Owl."

Munns compiled a 333-188 record at William Woods, directing the Owls to four NAIA national tournament appearances. William Woods reached the championship of the AMC postseason tournament seven times under Munns, winning the title in 2011 and 2014.

"Darren built a great program here at William Woods," said Jason Vittone, the school's athletic director. "I'm grateful to have had him as a member of our coaching staff and wish him the best."

The university has already initiated a search for Munns' replacement.

Munns will be officially introduced as Columbia College's head coach this morning. The school announced the re-instatement of its baseball program in 2014. Munns will spend the 2015-16 academic year recruiting and the Cougars will begin play in 2016-17.

"I am excited about becoming the head baseball coach at Columbia College," Munns said. "I would like to thank (school president) Dr. Scott Dalrymple and (athletic director) Bob Burchard for this great opportunity.

"Columbia College Athletics has a proud and successful tradition that speaks for itself. Cougar Baseball has great potential and I look forward to re-starting the program."