West Liberty University Women's Golf

Freddie Fitzsimmons, a 2020 graduate of West Liberty University, returns to lead the Hilltoppers’ women’s golf program. A four-year member of the team from 2016-2020, Fitzsimmons competed in consecutive Mountain East Conference Championships in 2018 and 2019, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic and team-oriented approach. With deep ties to the program, Fitzsimmons brings a commitment to fostering success both on the course and in the classroom. His experience as a student-athlete and passion for West Liberty golf position him to guide the women’s team into a new chapter of growth and achievement.

Eric Burkle led the West Liberty University baseball team to another successful campaign in 2025, marking the program’s ninth 20-win season under his leadership. Now in his 13th season as head coach and 18th overall with the Hilltopper staff, Burkle has guided the program with consistency and vision, including a record-tying streak of six straight 20-win seasons from 2013 to 2018. With 256 career wins, he ranks second all-time in program history. Burkle’s reputation for player development has been a hallmark of his tenure. He has coached 10 First Team All-Mountain East Conference selections and produced two MEC Freshmen of the Year, including standout pitcher Tyler Skeen, who earned the honor in 2025. A native of Wheeling, West Virginia, and a graduate of Wheeling Park High School, Burkle began his collegiate playing career at Fairmont State University before an injury cut it short. He transitioned to coaching shortly thereafter, serving as an assistant at Wheeling Central Catholic High School, where he helped lead the Maroon Knights to back-to-back state championships. It was during this successful run that he caught the attention of longtime WLU head coach and Hall of Famer Bo McConnaughy. Burkle joined the West Liberty coaching staff in 2008 as McConnaughy's top assistant and spent five seasons learning under the legendary coach. When McConnaughy retired after more than three decades at the helm, Burkle was chosen as his successor—continuing to build on the foundation while establishing his own legacy. He resides in Bethlehem, West Virginia, with his wife, Amy. The couple has three children: daughters Haley and Sydney, and son Liam.