It’s official. The St. Thomas’ baseball coach for the 2010 season will be Chris Olean.

After assistant coaching for nine years, Olean will take over for Dennis Denning, whose 15-year tenure at St. Thomas included 522 wins and national championships in 2001 and 2009. Denning’s retirement will be effective Feb. 1.

“I was ecstatic. I was very excited,” Olean said of hearing the announcement. “I’ve been under one of the best teachers you can possibly have in coach Denning.”

St. Thomas must conduct a nationwide search next season, according to NCAA regulations. So for this season, Olean’s official title includes an “interim” tag. But the players think putting Olean in charge was the right choice.

“I’m excited about having an experienced member of the coaching staff to step up and fill coach Denning’s spot,” senior catcher Brady Field said. “The intensity that he brings to games and practices pushes everyone to perform their best.”

No matter what the label, Olean has high expectations for his team this season.

“I don’t think there’s any excuse for a drop off,” Olean said. “I feel like it might be a little different this year, but I don’t think the results will be different.”

Ben Katzner can be reached at bekatzner@stthomas.edu