Tyler Knockouts Name Tom Harmsen Head Coach

Tyler, TX — The Tyler Knockouts are proud to announce Tom Harmsen as the team’s Head Coach, bringing decades of professional experience, a passion for player development, and a commitment to building a strong foundation for the organization’s future.

Harmsen, originally from Central Wyoming, grew up playing multiple sports, but baseball was always at the center of his journey. He went on to pitch collegiately at York College in Nebraska, where he developed both on and off the field before transitioning into a successful 30-year career in the automotive industry as a Regional Sales Instructor.

Despite his professional career outside of baseball, Harmsen remained deeply connected to the game through coaching and private instruction. His dedication eventually led him to pursue baseball full-time, completing coursework in Sports Management, General Management, and Scouting—experiences that helped pave the way for his role in the Cowboy Collegiate League.

“The opportunity to represent a new team in a new league excites me because it allows us to build something from the ground up,” said Harmsen. “We have the chance to establish a culture, identity, and standard that players can truly take pride in.”

As the Knockouts begin building their program, Harmsen emphasized that success will extend far beyond the scoreboard. “While competing at a high level is always the goal, true success will be measured by developing young men into leaders who are prepared for whatever path they choose in life,” he said.

Harmsen is equally energized by the opportunity to work within the Tyler community and bring together a diverse group of players. “I’m excited not just for this opportunity, but to do it in a community I respect,” he said. “Bringing together players from different backgrounds and molding them into a cohesive, disciplined, and competitive team is what drives me.”

Beyond wins and losses, Harmsen’s focus is on developing complete athletes with strong fundamentals and mental toughness. “I want this team to represent more than just a record,” he said. “My goal is to develop well-rounded, mentally sharp, fundamentally sound players who understand the game, trust their mechanics, and compete with consistency.”

At the core of his coaching philosophy is a simple but powerful principle: “Balance creates power when it is taught and applied correctly.”

Off the field, Harmsen enjoys spending time with his wife, Kelly, their four children, and their two miniature dachshunds. As a family, they enjoy golfing, traveling, and cooking together. The opportunity to now be part of the Tyler community carries added meaning, as the family had previously explored relocating to the area several years ago.

With his experience, leadership, and passion for developing players, Harmsen is poised to guide the Tyler Knockouts into a competitive and impactful season.

The Knockouts look forward to the leadership Harmsen brings as they continue building a program centered on growth, discipline, and community pride.