After six seasons at the helm of the Calvin University baseball program, Kevin Van Duyn has announced his retirement as head coach of the program.

A 1987 Calvin University graduate, Van Duyn returned to take over his alma mater in the fall of 2018 and has guided the Knights since. Van Duyn arrived at Calvin in 2018 after a lengthy run in athletics administration at Jenison High School.

In six seasons as Calvin University baseball coach, he compiled an overall record of 98-97 that included two trips to the MIAA Tournament and a 22-16 finish in 2021 that was good for second place in the final regular season league standings.

"I just felt that now is the right time to retire," said Van Duyn, a native of nearby Jenison, Michigan. "My wife (Kim Van Duyn) and I have five children, two grandchildren and my parents are still living and are nearby. I would like to spend more time with them while I still have that opportunity. I feel that I am leaving the Calvin baseball program in good hands for the next person to take over. I am retiring with nothing but gratitude for this coaching opportunity. It's been an honor to serve as a head coach at my alma mater and work with so many trusted colleagues and friends."

Van Duyn has deep roots to the Calvin baseball program as he was a three-time All-MIAA selection and a two-time Division III All-American from 1984-1987 as a starting second baseman. He also was a three-year starter on the Calvin men's basketball team and a two-time All-MIAA selection in that sport.

During his time as Calvin's head baseball coach, he was able to coach his son Trevor Van Duyn – an All-MIAA pitcher – while also working alongside his father Harold Van Duyn who was a volunteer assistant with the program.

"Coaching and working alongside my son Trevor and my father Harold are moments I will treasure forever," said Van Duyn. "That's been another great blessing during my Calvin journey."

Van Duyn Family Calvin Baseball Feature Story - 3-24-20

Calvin Director of Athletics Dr. Jim Timmer Jr. had nothing but praise and admiration for Van Duyn's work with the baseball program and work within the Calvin Athletics Department. "We are incredibly appreciative of the work Kevin did with our baseball program. He has put the program in a better place since he took the position and did so with class and dignity. He is retiring completely on his own terms and I know he is at peace with his decision. We have greatly valued his presence in the Calvin athletics department. He has been a source of encouragement for everyone in our department with his positive attitude and willingness to be a servant-leader. He loves Calvin University and bleeds maroon and gold. He is without question a Knight for life."

According to Timmer, Calvin will open a national search immediately in its search for a new head baseball coach.