Savannah, Georgia - Savannah State University Athletics has made a significant announcement with the hiring of Florentino “Tino” Burgos as the new head coach of the Tigers’ HBCU baseball program. This move is set to bring a new era of excellence and leadership to the baseball team. Burgos arrives at “The Marsh” with an extensive background as a head coach, having spent eight seasons at Florida Memorial University where he guided the Lions to their most prosperous era in program history.

Coach Burgos' Vision and Calling

Becoming the head baseball coach at Savannah State University is not just an opportunity; it is a calling to lead, inspire, and elevate young men both on and off the field. Together, with the team, Coach Burgos aims to build a culture of excellence, resilience, and pride that embodies the very essence of Tiger Nation. His leadership is expected to have a profound impact on the players and the program as a whole.

Success at Florida Memorial University

During his tenure at Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens, Florida, the FMU baseball program underwent a remarkable transformation. It developed into one of the top baseball teams among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The program grew to be highly competitive within The Sun Conference, often regarded as one of the toughest baseball conferences in the NAIA. In 2023, Burgos led the team to victory in the Black College World Series championship, defeating fellow SIAC school Albany State with a score of 5-4 in the title game. This achievement is a testament to his coaching skills and ability to lead a team to success.

Academic Excellence and Player Development

In addition to on-field success, Burgos has also established a culture of academic excellence at FMU. Since 2018, many FMU players have been selected for the Sun Conferences’ All-Conference Team. Moreover, more than 10 FMU players have received the Sun Conferences’ All-Academic Team honors each year. This shows that Burgos not only focuses on developing players' baseball skills but also their academic abilities. His approach to coaching emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education and personal growth.

Taking Over the Savannah State Team

Burgos now takes over a Savannah State team that had an impressive 2024 season, finishing with a 31-17 overall record and representing the SIAC at the 2024 NCAA Division II Baseball Tournament. His leadership and coaching expertise are expected to build on this success and take the team to even greater heights. With his experience and vision, he is poised to lead the Tigers to new achievements in the coming years.