Serrano Steps Down After Historic Tenure Leading Royals Baseball

KNOXVILLE, TN- Dave Serrano has announced that he is stepping down as head coach of the Johnson University baseball program, closing a historic chapter for Royals baseball.

Serrano took over the program prior to the 2024 season and quickly helped elevate Johnson baseball to new heights. In just three seasons leading the Royals, he guided the program through one of the most successful stretches in school history, highlighted by a record-setting 2026 campaign that ended with Johnson's first-ever appearance in the Avista NAIA World Series.

During his time at Johnson, Serrano brought a championship-level standard to the program. His leadership, experience, and steady belief in his players helped shape a culture built on toughness, accountability, faith, and confidence. The Royals continued to grow each season under his direction, earning national recognition while establishing themselves as one of the top programs in the Appalachian Athletic Conference and the NAIA.

The 2026 season served as the defining moment of Serrano's tenure. Johnson captured the Salina Bracket title and advanced to the Avista NAIA World Series for the first time in program history. The Royals also reached the 40-win mark, setting a new single-season program record, while Serrano earned his 100th win at Johnson during the Opening Round championship victory.

Beyond the wins and milestones, Serrano's impact was felt in the daily standard he set for the program. He challenged his players to compete with purpose, handle success with humility, and represent Johnson University with pride on and off the field. His influence reached far beyond the scoreboard, helping develop young men through the game of baseball.

Serrano's time at Johnson added another meaningful chapter to a decorated coaching career, but it also left a lasting mark on the Royals. Under his leadership, Johnson baseball reached places it had never been before, and the foundation built during his tenure will continue to shape the program moving forward.

Johnson University Athletics thanks Coach Serrano for his leadership, commitment, and lasting impact on the baseball program, its student-athletes, and the entire Royals community.