32   Rich Hills Position: Assistant Coach

Rich Hills, a four year starter for the Sooners in the early 1990s and a key member of Oklahoma's National Championship team in 1994, has returned to the Sooner program, this time as an assistant coach. A three-time All-America selection at shortstop during his playing career, Hills works primarily with the Sooners' infielders and also helps guide the team's offensive talent.

Hills, who took over Aric Thomas' former spot on the Sooner coaching staff midway through the 2001 season, played professional baseball for six years, mostly in the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres organization. During his time with the Mariners', Hills was awarded with the John Ellis Community Service Award in 1998 and 1999 for his outstanding efforts in giving back to the community.

Hills was a starter for Oklahoma from 1992-95 and took part in three College World Series. The lone team captain for the 1995 squad, he finished his career as a three-time first team All-Big Eight performer, achieved all-district status in 1994 and was a three-time second team All-American from 1993 to 1995. Hills' name still stands on several of the school's career charts as the Yorba Linda, Calif., native ranks in the top 10 on seven of OU's career offensive lists, including the top spot in career at bats and second spot in career hits, doubles and games played. Hills also holds the school record for doubles in a season with 28 in 1994.

Born July 28, 1973, in Garden Grove, Calif., Hills graduated from OU with a bachelor's in sociology. He is single and resides in Norman.