The departure of Newton baseball coach Vincent Byams has left an opening at the head coaching spot for Newton baseball, a spot quickly filled by former Newton junior varsity head baseball coach and varsity assistant Andre Byrd.

Byrd brings 20 years of baseball playing and coaching experience to his new position, detailed in his resume for the position.

"My goal as head baseball coach is to successfully manage student athletes with different backgrounds and personalities. Bring them all together for one goal and that is to win. Not only to win in baseball but teach them and educate them on how to win in the game of life," Byrd’s job objective said.

Byrd first came to the Rams in 2009 when he coached the freshman team to a 16-4 record. In 2011, Byrd stepped in for the Newton High JV team, leading the 2012 squad to a 13-5 mark and the runner-up spot for the league title. Last season, Newton’s JV team was 10-6.

Byrd is taking over a Newton team that is expected to have great season next year.

The Rams varsity squad finished the 2013 season with an 8-20 record, but went 6-6 in Region 2-AAAAAA, earning a spot in the state playoffs.

"I will inspire them and educate them on the importance of "unity,’" Byrd said. "Once they can understand that, winning becomes easy."

Byrd received a master’s degree in special education in 2011 from Grand Canyon University. In 2008, he received a master’s degree in technology education from Lesley University.