Former professional pitcher and Southern Arizona baseball standout John Bannister is Tanque Verde High School’s new Head coach, replacing Tom Belter, who left to become an assistant at Cienega.
A Tucson native and Sabino High School graduate, Bannister established himself as one of Southern Arizona’s
premier prep baseball players before embarking on a professional baseball career.
Following his standout high school career, he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Texas Rangers and went on to play professional baseball from 2003 to 2009 within the Rangers and Kansas City Royals organizations. He reached the Triple-A level in 2009 before finishing his career in 2010 with the Tucson Toros, who were an independent franchise at that time.
“We are thrilled to welcome John Bannister to Hawks Baseball,” Tanque Verde athletic director Pat Nugent, the longtime former football coach at CDO and Mica Mountain, said in a school press release. “When you have the opportunity to bring in someone with John’s background as a Southern Arizona baseball standout, professional player, and proven leader, you take it.
“What impressed me most throughout the process was his passion for developing young people. He understands that great programs are built on relationships, accountability, and culture. Our baseball program has established tremendous momentum, and I am excited to see John build upon that foundation and help elevate Hawks Baseball to even greater heights.”
Bannister has conducted private and small-group pitching lessons in recent years in the Tucson area.
Bannister joins a program that has demonstrated consistent growth and competitiveness in recent years. With consecutive playoff appearances and a ranking as high as No. 1 in Arizona’s 3A Conference, Tanque Verde has established itself as one of Southern Arizona’s emerging programs.
Tanque Verde administrators believe Bannister’s experience, leadership, and commitment to player development will help elevate the program to greater heights.
“John is an exceptional addition to our school community,” Principal Dr. Amy Cislak said in the release. “As we continue
investing in outstanding coaches and expanding opportunities for our students, we are excited for the leadership, experience, and mentorship he will bring to Tanque Verde baseball.”
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