From Texas to the Badlands, new Big Sticks manager looks to make impact

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - The new Northwoods League season brought in a new field manager for the Badlands Big Sticks.

The Big Sticks have a new skipper.

“This is definitely the biggest gig I’ve had so far and had the opportunity to get,” said Kelby Coburn, the new Badlands Big Sticks field manager.

24-year-old Kelby Coburn is here to make a difference.

“In the long run, I want to be someone who makes better husbands, better fathers, better sons, better friends, better boyfriends, whatever it is, just better men. I think wherever you are, that impact lasts longer than just wins,” said Coburn.

Coburn has spent the last two years at Texas State as a GA. He’s also had coaching stints in summer baseball leagues in Texas.

“If you view it as a business, it’s kind of dog-eat-dog, a little cut-throat at times, but I think if you have genuine love of the guys and their best interests and every decision, and you understand that they only get one career too,” said Coburn.

All those experiences prepared him for this job.

“There’s going to be a lot of things that I try at and fail at, but I’m really excited because I feel like we have a group of guys and players who are on the same page, we’re here to play with a bit of a chip on our shoulder,” said Coburn.

The Big Sticks take on the Willmar Stingers on Tuesday.