The First Academy announces Alan Kunkel as new baseball coach

The First Academy has announced Alan Kunkel as its next varsity boys baseball coach and director of baseball operations. 

“My family and I are very excited about being a part of the TFA family," Kunkel said. "God is doing big things here through this ministry, and we consider ourselves fortunate to be a part of his plan. Baseball has a tradition of excellence here, but it also has, and always will be, a platform to share the love of the Lord.”

Kunkel most recently served as the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of South Florida baseball team and has had previous coaching stops at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, and Calvary Christian Academy in Ft. Lauderdale — where he led the Eagles to four consecutive state championship game appearances, winning two, as well as a National Championship. 

As a player, Kunkel played for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill from 1997-1999.                       

“We are so excited for the Kunkel family to be joining the TFA family!' said TFA Director of Athletics Jeff Conaway. "Alan is extremely mission-minded and will lead our baseball program with excellence. His Christlikeness and experience winning at the highest level are two of the many great qualities that made Alan such a remarkable candidate. Coach Kunkel and his family will bring great value to our baseball team, program, and our school.”

Kunkel inherits a Royals team that finished the 2024 season with a 24-7 record and advanced to the State Final Four — with 7 of the 9 starters returning, including hitting leaders Remo Indomenico and Blake Fields. 

He will take over the program from interim head coach Nick Franklin, who left the program to pursue other opportunities. Franklin, a former MLB player and first-round pick, replaced longtime TFA coach Scott Grove in the middle of the season and led the Royals to 12 straight wins to finish the season before losing in the semifinals.