John McClain was named interim head coach for William Paterson's softball team in February 2020. He served as an assistant coach for the Pioneers during the 2019 campaign. Â
Â
Prior to his appointment, McClain spent four seasons (2015-18) as the top assistant coach at Pequannock Twp. High School. McClain also coached the New Jersey Sparks, a fast-pitch travel program, for 10 seasons (2007-16).
Â
Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals out of high school in 1985, McClain opted to play collegiately for Montclair State College (now University). From 1986-89, McClain was a three-time all-NJAC performer, helping the Red Hawks win the NCAA Division III national championship in 1987. McClain was again drafted, this time by the Pittsburgh Pirates, in the 1989 Major League Baseball amateur draft and spent two seasons within the organization.
Â
Away from the diamond, McClain has spent the last 25 years as a member of the Port Authority police department, including the past six as a detective.
Â