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Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference

JIM TINKEY RETIRES AFTER 38 YEARS WITH LA ROCHE ATHLETICS

JIM TINKEY RETIRES AFTER 38 YEARS WITH LA ROCHE ATHLETICS
January 12, 2026

La Roche University Athletics officially closes a remarkable chapter in its history, as legendary Director of Athletics, Jim Tinkey, announced his retirement, effective January 6, 2026.

After nearly four decades of service, Tinkey departs as the architect of modern Redhawk athletics. Tinkey's journey at La Roche began in 1987. Over the next 38 years, he evolved from professional pitcher to championship-winning coach, and ultimately to the administrative leader who guided Redhawk programs to 20 NCAA Division III Tournament appearances.

A Coaching Foundation

Before his administrative rise, Tinkey established excellence on the field as head baseball coach from 1987 to 1996. A 12th-round draft pick of the California Angels, he brought a professional mindset that elevated the program.

  • 1991: Named NAIA District 18 Coach of the Year
  • 1992: Selected as Pennsylvania Keystone Games Western Region Coach

Tinkey later enjoyed a 22-year tenure as Head Men's Golf Coach (1998–2020), one of the most successful runs in AMCC history. A three-time AMCC Coach of the Year, he mentored 48 All-Conference athletes and coached six AMCC Players of the Year.

From the AD's Desk: The Redhawk Standard

As Director of Athletics, Tinkey's influence extended across campus and conference lines. He was a founding member of the AMCC in 1997 and oversaw the construction of the Baierl Athletic Complex and the renovation of the Kerr Fitness & Sports Center, providing student-athletes with premier Division III facilities.

Under his leadership, La Roche achieved historic success:

  • 2000: First AMCC Championship in school history (Softball)
  • 2011: Men's Basketball AMCC Championship and first NCAA Tournament appearance (final national ranking of 20th)
  • Women's Basketball: 11 AMCC Championships and nearly 50 consecutive conference wins
  • 2016: Baseball NCAA Tournament semifinal appearance in Appleton, Wis.
  • Overall: 23 AMCC Tournament Championships, 23 Regular Season Titles, and 20 NCAA Tournament appearances across multiple sports

A Champion Mindset

Tinkey leaves behind a department shaped by his values of family, integrity, and a steadfast belief that college athletics should remain rooted in the student-athlete experience.

While Tinkey looks ahead to a retirement filled with golf and time outdoors, his influence will continue to shape La Roche Athletics for generations. He was more than an administrator — he was a mentor, advocate, and steady presence whose leadership helped define what it means to be a Redhawk. His commitment to students, coaches, and the values of Division III athletics built a foundation of trust and excellence that will be deeply missed across campus and throughout the AMCC.