By Ryan Davenport, WSON Sports Correspondent 

Henderson County High School Baseball Coach Adam Hines is retiring from coaching amid health concerns.

“I’m mainly stepping down because I think it’s the right thing to do for my overall health. I had a kidney transplant in 2021 and since then, I’ve thought a lot about what’s best for my health,” Hines explained.

“As you can imagine, there is a ton of stress involved in being the head coach. As we’ve experienced umpire shortages, a lack of bus drivers, among other things, in the last few years that have resulted in cancellations and a ton of changes, the stress has gotten worse and worse. It was time to make a change,” Hines continued.

Hines said he came to the conclusion of retirement from the diamond before the start of this season.

“I thought coming into this season that it would probably be my last, but I didn’t really decide until early spring. I wanted to decide before the season because I didn’t want the emotions of the season to be a factor.”

The 2023 season was packed with plenty of emotions.

After stumbling into the postseason on a three-game skid — giving Hines his only regular season record under .500, at 14-17, — the Colonels caught fire.

Henderson beat Union County to win district.

The Colonels claimed an 11-inning classic at home, to dispatch Christian County and Kentucky Mr. Baseball Elijah Underhill, to win the school’s first region title in ten years.

Then Hines led the Colonels to State Tournament wins over  Pulaski County, and a comeback victory over Harrison County.

Henderson County would fall to eventual state champion, Whitley County, 2-1, in the state semi-finals.

“I was certainly so happy for the guys and proud of them that they played so well at the end of the season,” Hines noted.

Hines added that his relationships with his players will be a big take away from his time as Henderson’s head coach.

“I think I’ll take two things away…the relationships that I’ve made with all the players and coaches over the last 6 years and being able to see the players play well and have successes. They work so hard all year and it’s such a rewarding feeling to see them have the success they deserve.”

Hines went on to say his replacement will be inheriting a great program.

“The job is one of the best in the state without a doubt. There are good players that are dedicated, great support from the school system, and a wonderful group of parents to work with.”

Now for Hines, he will dedicate his focus on his family, health, and teaching.

“Next up for me is spending more time with my wife and family. I’m looking forward to having more down time and being able to focus on my health. I’m also looking forward to pouring more into my teaching career.”

Hines won 107 games in his 5 seasons as the Colonels skipper, including 4 district titles, 2 region runner-ups, and this season a region championship and State Final Four appearance.