In a high-stakes showdown that marked the end of an incredible season, Coastal Carolina fell short in the 2025 College World Series final against LSU. The Chanticleers lost 5–3 in Game 2 of the best-of-three series, ending their championship hopes. While LSU celebrated its eighth national title, much of the postgame conversation centered around the emotional and controversial remarks from Coastal head coach Kevin Schnall.
Schnall, who was ejected in the first inning of the decisive game after a heated exchange with umpires, delivered pointed and passionate comments in the aftermath. Though disappointed with the outcome, Schnall began his remarks by giving credit where it was due.
“They deserved it, they earned it,” Schnall said of LSU “They were just a bit better today.”
His acknowledgment of LSU’s performance reflected his respect for the Tigers, who had controlled much of the game with strong pitching and timely hitting.
However, Schnall did not hold back when asked about his early ejection. He was tossed from the game after arguing balls and strikes in the top of the first inning, a decision that he strongly disagreed with. “I’m 48 years old,” he said. “I shouldn’t get shooed by another grown man… because you missed three of them.” Schnall denied that he made contact with the umpire, as had been suggested. “There was no bump. I shouldn’t be held accountable for a grown man’s athleticism.”
Despite the controversy, Schnall remained firm in his belief that his actions reflected his values and the culture he has instilled in his program. “Two words that define our program are ‘Own it,’” he said. “You have to own everything that you do without blame, without defending yourself, without excuses.” In that spirit, Schnall did not apologize for the incident itself—but rather for the abrupt way the season ended for his players.
“I’m not sorry for what happened,” he added. “I’m sorry for this being over. I’m sorry for how it ended.” Those words struck a chord with many in the Coastal Carolina community, who rallied behind Schnall and the team’s deep postseason run.
The loss was a heartbreaking end to a remarkable season for the Chanticleers, who had defied expectations to reach the championship series. Under Schnall’s leadership, the team played with intensity, grit, and unity—a reflection of their coach’s fiery and unapologetic style.
Though the final result did not go their way, Coastal Carolina left Omaha with their heads held high. For Schnall, the focus now turns to building on this experience and preparing for another shot at a national title. If anything, the events of the College World Series have only reinforced his commitment to the program’s identity and core values.
“This is who we are,” Schnall said. “We fight, we care, and we take responsibility. That won’t change.”
