In Episode 53 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with Marion High School baseball coach Kyle Geiger. From his days as a multi-sport standout at Center Grove High School in Indiana, to being drafted by the Minnesota Twins and playing five seasons in professional baseball, to now leading one of Southern Illinois’ premier programs, Geiger’s story is defined by perseverance, adaptability, and a lifelong love for the game.

At Rend Lake College, he became an all-conference and all-region catcher, earning team MVP honors and catching the eye of the Twins’ scouts. His pro career included an All-Star selection with the Fort Myers Miracle and a Catcher of the Year award in the Can-Am League with the Ottawa Rapids. After hanging up the gear, Geiger turned to coaching—first at Du Quoin, where he guided the Indians to conference and regional titles and was named SCCA Coach of the Year, and now at Marion, where in just two seasons he has delivered multiple 20-win campaigns, South Seven Conference championships, and back-to-back SCCA Coach of the Year honors.

In this episode, Coach Geiger reflects on his journey from the grind of minor league baseball to building championship culture in Southern Illinois. He shares stories of resilience, leadership, and what it means to earn the trust of a team and community. Don’t miss this conversation with one of the region’s rising coaching voices.