University of Nebraska - Kearney Athletics

Recognition: Athlete

Tom Bales was a four year letter winner in baseball who set eight season and career records for the Loper s from 1985 to 1988.  Bales compiled a .359 career batting average, hit 39 home runs and drove in 183 runs.  During his four years, the Lopers won three NAIA District 22 titles.  While playing for Coach Guy Murry, Bales was NAIA District Player of the Year in 1988 and all-conference in 1987 and 1988.  In his senior year, he was an NAIA ALL-American honorable mention.  Following graduation, Bales played in the New York Mets organization before becoming a high school teacher and coach.