Holbrook Named CAA Coach of the Year; 10 Cougars on All-Conference Teams – College of Charleston Athletics
RICHMOND, Va. – Chad Holbrook Earns Top Honor
Chad Holbrook has been named the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Coach of the Year, leading the College of Charleston to a successful season and securing the team’s second regular-season CAA title in three years. The announcement came as the league office revealed its postseason conference awards, recognizing outstanding performances by both coaches and players.
Impressive Player Performance
The Cougars demonstrated their prowess on the field with 10 players receiving All-CAA honors. Five players were selected for the All-CAA first team, including first baseman Cole Mathis, third baseman Kevin Madden, left fielder Avery Neaves, designated hitter Cole Singsank, and closer Davis Aiken. Additionally, starting pitchers Jake Brink and Aidan Hunter were chosen for the second team, while right fielder Will Baumhofer and starting pitcher Connor Campbell received honorable mentions. Relief pitcher Hayden Thomas was also recognized on the all-rookie squad.
Coach of the Year – Chad Holbrook
Chad Holbrook’s leadership has been instrumental in the Cougars’ success this season, with a current record of 39-12. This marks his most wins with the team, and one more victory would result in the seventh 40-win season in the program’s history. Holbrook, in his seventh year as head coach, boasts a record of 223-121 since taking the helm in 2018. This is his second Coach of the Year honor from the CAA, following his recognition in 2022.
Standout Players
Several Cougars players have stood out for their exceptional performances this season. Cole Mathis, who moved up to the first team this year after being on the second team last season, is currently batting .339 with impressive stats, including 14 doubles, 14 home runs, 58 runs scored, and 54 RBI.
Kevin Madden has been a key player for the Cougars, boasting a .327 batting average with 14 doubles, 12 home runs, 50 runs scored, and 45 RBI. Madden’s grand slam in a crucial game against Northeastern showcased his impact on the team.
Avery Neaves made history as only the second Cougar to hit for the cycle this season, highlighting his stellar performance with a .330 average, 22 doubles, four triples, 13 homers, and 58 runs scored. Neaves also had an outstanding 8-for-8 series with eight extra-base hits.
Cole Singsank has been on a power surge, hitting eight home runs with 21 RBI during a current seven-game hitting streak. His contributions were pivotal in securing victories for the Cougars.
Davis Aiken leads the CAA in saves and has been a reliable closer for the team, earning recognition on the NCBWA Stopper of the Year Midseason Watchlist in April.
Strong Pitching Presence
On the pitching front, Jake Brink and Aidan Hunter have been instrumental for the Cougars. Brink is tied for the CAA lead with eight wins and also leads the conference in innings pitched. Hunter, with a 6-1 record during the regular season, delivered a standout performance against William & Mary that earned him CAA Pitcher of the Week honors.
Other notable players recognized include Will Baumhofer, who leads the Cougars in steals and boasts a .353 batting average, and Connor Campbell, tied for second in the CAA with eight wins.
Rookie Recognition
Hayden Thomas, a standout on the all-rookie squad, has showcased his potential with three wins, one save, and 34 strikeouts in 37 innings. His strong performances have been key for the Cougars this season.
Looking Ahead
As the Cougars head into the CAA Tournament, they are poised for success with a talented roster and experienced coaching staff. With Coach Chad Holbrook at the helm and a strong lineup of players, the College of Charleston is ready to make a statement in postseason play.