Tim Costo promoted to head coach for McCallie baseball

Tim Costo has been promoted from assistant coach to head the McCallie School baseball program.
Tim Costo has been promoted from assistant coach to head the McCallie School baseball program.

McCallie School has turned to Tim Costo, an assistant for the past four seasons, to head its baseball program that has made four consecutive state-tournament appearances.

"We feel Tim's baseball knowledge and playing experiences are unmatched. He is an outstanding teacher of the game and will bring out the very best in our student-athletes," athletic director Jeff Romero said.

Costo, a first-time head coach, replaces Greg Payne, who resigned earlier this month.

"I think it's right for both parties," Costo said. "I think I'm qualified from a knowledge standpoint, and I had great tutelage from Greg, who is an exceptional high school coach. I love McCallie and what it stands for, and I love the kids I deal with. McCallie is a special place."

A former All-America shortstop and three-year starter for Iowa, Costo was a first-round draft choice by the Cleveland Indians. During his 10-year professional career in four organizations - Cleveland, Cincinnati, St. Louis and Toronto - he played shortstop, third base, first base and outfield. He finished his pro career in the big leagues with Cincinnati.

He spent parts of two seasons with the Chattanooga Lookouts.

He intends to retain other members of Payne's staff - Tom Adams, Chris Edge and Robert Long - a group Payne considered to be among the best in the South.

"The dynamics have changed, but we have chemistry going," Costo said. "I'm privileged to work alongside each of them."

Long also played in the majors, pitching for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

"We are fortunate to have a staff of extraordinary baseball coaches, including two former major league players. They love the game, but more importantly they love the boys and the opportunity to coach them," said Kenny Sholl, the school's assistant headmaster.

Costo worked one season as an assistant coach at Signal Mountain (2012) before joining McCallie as hitting coach in 2013. He has spent numerous seasons as a hitting instructor.

"With Tim and the staff and the wonderful young men in our program, McCallie baseball will continue to build on its strong traditions of excellence," headmaster Lee Burns said.

Costo works for Sequatchie Concrete Company, and his wife, Wendy, is a Hixson native whom he met while playing for the Lookouts. Sons Cameron and Carter are McCallie students.

Contact Ward Gossett at wgossett@timesfreepress.com or 423-886-4765. Follow him at Twitter.com/wardgossett.

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