Cumberland University has announced the hiring of Allen Balmer as its new head baseball coach, bringing championship experience from one of the most successful programs in NAIA history. Balmer spent the last 17 seasons at Lewis-Clark State College, helping guide the Warriors to consistent national championship contention and a remarkable 701–202–1 overall record during his tenure on staff.
“I am excited to hire Allen Balmer as our new Head Baseball Coach, ”said Vice President of Athletics Ron Pavan. “He brings in championship pedigree both playing and coaching for national championships. He is a great coach and person who will lead us back to Lewiston.”
His 17-year run included three NAIA World Series titles and multiple national runner-up finishes. From 2009–2025, the Warriors won more than 35 games each season under Balmer’s guidance. The program had 11 40-win seasons and two 50-win seasons during his tenure.
Balmer also has a strong track record of recruiting and developing elite-level players. Lewis-Clark State produced 27 NAIA All-Americans, including two First-Team selections and 33 players who went on to get drafted in the MLB draft. The Warriors currently have four players still playing affiliated baseball.
In his role at Lewis-Clark, Balmer served as associate head coach and recruiting coordinator, overseeing recruiting efforts nationwide, managing player development, directing fundraising initiatives, and coordinating team operations. His coaching background includes specialized work with infielders, hitters, and pitchers, as well as extensive experience with player conditioning and academic support.
“I am very blessed to be part of the Cumberland baseball family,” said Coach Balmer. “It is a program full of rich tradition that was created by the Hunt family and alumni. I am honored to be trusted to keep those traditions alive moving forward.”
“I would like to thank President Dr. Paul Stumb, Coach Ron Pavan, and Woody Hunt for reaching out to bring me here. I can’t wait to get started. Go Phoenix!”
Balmer was also a standout player for Lewis-Clark State from 2002-06. He was a four-year starter at third base for Lewis-Clark State from 2002–06, where he helped guide the Warriors to two NAIA national championships. His senior season was highlighted by a title run where he was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Following his collegiate career, Balmer signed a free agent contract with the San Francisco Giants and spent one season in professional baseball.
Balmer inherits a Cumberland program with three NAIA National Championships. The Cumberland Baseball program has made it to the NAIA World Series 12 times. The Phoenix won the 2025 Mid-South Conference Championship last season and has made the NAIA National Tournament two times in the last four seasons.
Balmer is expected to get started at Cumberland in a few weeks.
