ROSENBERG — Ricky Watkins, an alumnus of Terry and former player on Ranger Field, has returned to his alma mater as the new infield and hitting coach for the Rangers.

Watkins, who played shortstop on the same field back in 2003, makes his long-awaited return to Ranger Field. Although he spent only his senior year here, Watkins made a name for himself as an all-district shortstop and was recognized as the Fort Bend Herald All-Area MVP.

During his time, Watkins led the 4A league in stolen bases, successfully stealing 43 out of 45 attempts.

“It’s exciting to come back to the place you played and were a big part of,” Watkins said. “It’s cool to go back and help kids who were in the same shoes as me 20 or so years ago.”

Watkins would play collegiately at The University of Texas-Permian Basin before transitioning to coaching.

Terry Head Coach Justin Gougler enthusiastically announced Watkins’ addition to the coaching staff, stating that it is a “tremendous” enhancement for the program.

Gougler emphasized Watkins’ strong reputation both in the game of baseball and within the community.

He believes that Watkins’ arrival will positively impact the student-athletes for years to come and elevate Terry baseball.

Watkins’ extensive coaching resume includes a five-year tenure at Westbury Christian High School, where he coached 14 college signees and three individuals selected in the MLB draft.

In 2020, Watkins began his tenure as an assistant coach for Wharton County Junior College, where the team achieved a record-breaking 37 victories during the 2022 season.

Watkins commended Coach Gougler’s leadership as the skipper of the Rangers and eagerly anticipates contributing to Terry’s back-to-back postseason aspirations.

“The kids know how to act over at Terry and a culture is already there,” Watkins said. “My job is to go there and improve what they already have.”