Baseball: Former major leaguer Jack Wilson is new coach at Thousand Oaks

Jack Wilson, a Thousand Oaks High graduate who played in the major leagues from 2001 to 2012, is the new baseball coach at his alma mater.

Wilson, 38, has been coaching youth baseball.

“He’s a great teacher,” Athletic Director Gary Walin said.

Wilson was a shortstop who spent eight seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His son, Jacob, will be a freshman at Thousand Oaks in the fall, the third generation to become a Lancer. Wilson has deep ties to the school. Both his parents graduated from Thousand Oaks, along with his brother.

“When I retired four years ago, I found a new passion, teaching the game on a personal level while also coaching my son,” Wilson said. “I’ve always enjoyed being able to take what I learned and pass it on. I have a passion for teaching.”

Wilson said he understands the challenge facing coaches with parents. He said communication is very important with players and parents.

“The goal for me is to get these kids to the next level to be able to play college baseball,” he said.

Thousand Oaks also announced the hiring of Brittany Williams as softball coach. She’s a former head coach at Pasadena City College

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