July 6, 2008

Lee Returns to College of Charleston 

Former South Carolina assistant Monte Lee has returned to his alma mater as head coach.

Lee has spent the past six years as an assistant to Ray Tanner at South Carolina. He primarily worked with outfielders and hitters, and was recruiting coordinator for the Gamecocks this past season.

The 31-year-old Lee played 206 games for the Cougars from 1996 to 1999. He was taken by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 39th round of the 1999 MLB Draft, the first position player drafted in school history. Lee hit .333 during his career at Charleston with 240 hits, 156 runs, 50 doubles, 150 RBI and 66 steals. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education in 2000.

A native of Spartanburg, S.C., Lee was an assistant for two seasons at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College from 2001-02. He and his wife, Kelly, have two daughters.

Lee replaces John Pawlowski, who left Charleston for Auburn in June.

Click here for list of 2008 Division I head coaching changes.