Coach Terry Bocian AQ Athletic Hall of Fame
Inducted in 2003, came to Aquinas from South Haven High School and led the College to baseball prominence during his
four years. A recipient of the Dennis Molnar Award, he eventually held eleven Aquinas pitching records, was twice named
All-State and All-Region, and, in 1980, was named NAIA All-American. During Dave's career at Aquinas, the team
boasted a record of 147 wins and 51 losses, winning three city championships and the state crown in 1979. One of
those wins was a one-hitter which led Aquinas to its first-ever victory over Michigan State University's squad. After stellar
summers pitching with the Grand Rapids Sullivans, he was signed by the Detroit Tigers' scout Bob Sullivan and rose
quickly through minor league ball to join the Detroit Tigers. In his first major league outing, he earned a save for the
Tigers against the Texas Rangers. In 1983, he led the Tigers' pitching staff with a 2.64 ERA and was named Tiger
Rookie of the Year in a poll of Detroit Sports Media. In 1987, he was inducted into the NAIA Hall of Fame. He pitched six
seasons in the majors with the Tigers, Cubs and Royals before returning to South Haven High School, where he is
currently Director of Athletics. With his wife, Debbie, and his two daughters, Shanley and Courtney, he raises show
horses.
