Joe Kroc accomplished his main goal as Austin baseball coach, but he won’t be able to keep the ball rolling.

After guiding the Packers to their first Minnesota State Baseball Tournament appearance in 29 years, Kroc has stepped down as head coach due to family reasons.

“I knew at some point there would be a crossroads where I would have to step back from something. The way that it worked out, this is the best for my family,” Kroc said. “If I can’t be there fully committed in the summer, then someone else should have that opportunity. I need to be all-in with family first.”

Kroc, an Austin grad, led the Packers to a third place finish in the Minnesota Class AAA State Baseball Tournament this past spring and Austin compiled a record of 44-27 in the three years under Kroc. Austin had three straight seasons with a winning record under Kroc. The program’s last season with a winning record was in the spring of 2006.

“I’m really, really proud of what we did over the three years,” Kroc said. “I’m happy with the way that things are going and I’m proud of what we did as a staff to put Austin back on the map with baseball. The run that we had this year was very special and something I’ll never forget and the players will never forget.”

Kroc is thankful for all of those who have helped out with the baseball program.

“I’m very proud of all of the players,” Kroc said. “The parents and the administration at AHS have been phenomenal. I’m thankful for everyone at the youth level, the help we received from Austin Park and Recreation and the help from Dan Wilson.”