Acosta, a former Mexico National player, plans to make ‘Hounds winners
San Benito Greyhound Head Baseball Coach Xavier Acosta is shown during his team's practice Thursday afternoon. (Staff photo by Francisco E. Jimenez)
Special to the NEWS
It’s been eight years since the San Benito Greyhound baseball team has reached the playoffs, and it has been longer since they’ve won a district championship.
The last time they won a district title was in 1995. In July, the Greyhounds were looking for a new coach to turn things around and bring success to the program once again. For any coach in 32-5A it is a challenge to have their team reach the playoffs in a district that has tremendous competition with successful baseball programs such as Weslaco and Brownsville Hanna, Lopez, and Porter. San Benito Athletic Director Spencer Gantt named Xavier Acosta head baseball coach after he came highly recommended from schools where he achieved previous success in baseball, such as baseball powerhouse Harlingen South.
Acosta knew taking the job and creating a successful program wouldn’t be easy. In fact, it would be the greatest challenge he’s faced so far in his coaching career.
Acosta is no stranger to the Valley baseball scene. He’s had success all over the Valley, not only as a coach, but also as a player. And his success as an athlete extends further than the Valley, even further than Texas.
Acosta first created a buzz in baseball when he attended PSJA High School and was three-year starting shortstop who earned All-District and MVP honors his senior year. He earned a scholarship to Tarkio College in Missouri where he continued to dominate in baseball, earning four All-Conference Awards, MVP Defensive Player, and setting the college’s all-time homerun record. Acosta then graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Math and Business.
After moving to Monterrey, Mexico he was chosen to play with the Mexico National baseball team, with whom he competed with at the 1990 Goodwill Games held in Seattle, Washington. He then competed with them in Edmonton, Canada at the Baseball World Cup where he earned two hits against the USA national team.
For the full story, pick up a copy of the April 3 edition of the San Benito News. Or view our E-Edition by clicking here.
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