RIVER FOREST, ILL. --  Concordia University Chicago Baseball and Head Coach Matt Smith announced the hiring of Brady Roberts as the Head Assistant Coach starting in the fall of 2026.

"We are thrilled to welcome Brady back home to Concordia University Chicago," said Coach Smith. "For the past six seasons, it has been both a pleasure and, honestly, a challenge coaching against him because of how prepared his teams were. Brady has an exceptional ability to study opposing pitchers, develop offensive approaches, and get hitters mentally and physically ready to compete."

A proud Cougar alumnus, Roberts returns to CUC after spending the past six seasons as an assistant coach at Illinois Institute of Technology. During his time with the Scarlet Hawks, Roberts established himself as one of the top young coaches in the region, earning a reputation for his preparation, player development, and ability to build strong relationships with student-athletes.

"We are thrilled to welcome Brady Roberts back to Concordia University Chicago," Director of Athletics John Jaramillo noted. Brady knows what it takes to win at CUC and helped create the championship DNA at his alma mater. His experience working with Ed Zeifert and Illinois Tech strengthened his coaching acumen and knowledge of the NACC. We are fortunate to have Brady return to CUC." 

Roberts is no stranger to success at Concordia. As a student-athlete from 2014-18, he was a key contributor to one of the most successful eras in program history. Primarily serving as a catcher and designated hitter, Roberts finished his career with a .318 batting average, 92 hits, 19 doubles, 44 RBIs, five home runs, and 43 runs scored in 83 games. During his four seasons, the Cougars advanced to the NCAA Division III Baseball Championship each year, including back-to-back appearances in the NCAA Division III World Series in 2017 and 2018. Roberts helped lead Concordia to four consecutive Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) Regular Season Championships and three consecutive NACC Tournament Championships.

"Brady's experience, knowledge, and familiarity with both the university and our baseball program make him an outstanding addition to our staff," Smith continued. "He understands what it means to wear the Cougar uniform and what it takes to compete for championships. His addition will help us continue building toward where we want to go, not just this season, but for years to come."

Roberts will work closely with Assistant Coach Connor Nelson in leading the Cougar offense and hitter development. His background as a catcher also brings another dimension of expertise to the coaching staff.

"He complements what Coach Nelson does with our hitters and offensive philosophy," Smith said. "At the same time, Brady brings tremendous experience and insight when it comes to developing catchers. His ability to teach the game is top-notch, but what separates him even more is his commitment to developing young men. That's a direct reflection of who he is as a person."

"Brady demonstrated everything we were looking for in a coach and mentor," Smith added. "He not only believes in the mission of Concordia University Chicago, he lives it every day. His values align perfectly with our program, our athletic department, and our university community."
The excitement surrounding Roberts' return extends beyond the coaching staff and administration. Current players have already expressed enthusiasm about the energy, knowledge, and championship experience he brings to the program.

As a former Cougar student-athlete, successful assistant coach, and respected teacher of the game, Roberts embodies the values and traditions that have shaped Concordia Baseball for decades. His return marks another important step forward as the Cougars continue their pursuit of conference championships, national postseason success, and the development of outstanding student-athletes.

"We couldn't be more excited to have Brady and his family back at Concordia," Smith said. "He is the right person for our program, our players, and our university. The future of Cougar Baseball is incredibly bright, and Brady will play a major role in helping us reach our goals. Welcome home, Coach Roberts."

Roberts, a native of Aurora, Illinois, earned his bachelor's degree in communications from Concordia University Chicago in 2018 and his master's degree from Concordia University Chicago in 2020.