Florida announces head baseball coach Kevin O'Sullivan taking a leave of absence

Florida baseball head coach Kevin O’Sullivan is taking a leave of absence to deal with some personal and family issues, the program announced Wednesday afternoon.

During the veteran coach’s absence, associate head coach Chuck Jeroloman will take over as the program’s interim head coach. Jeroloman has been with the program since 2020.

“I appreciate the support of the University and athletic department,” O’Sullivan said via the press release. “I have some personal and family issues that need my full attention at this time.”

BREAKING: @GatorsBB announces that head coach Kevin O'Sullivan is taking a leave of absence to deal with some 'personal and family' issues. pic.twitter.com/dFnFjtCUn7

— Kendall Rogers (@KendallRogers) October 22, 2025

O’Sullivan has been Florida‘s head coach since the 2008 season. In that time, ‘Sully’ has led the Gators to a 756-371 (305-204) record, 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, nine Super Regional appearances, seven Men’s College World Series appearances and one National Championship in 2017.

“Coach O’Sullivan has our full support as he takes the time he needs to focus on personal matters,” said Athletic Director Scott Stricklin via the press release. “We appreciate his openness in communicating this decision, and respect his need for privacy.”

Kevin O’Sullivan went viral for blowup in Conway Regional

Prior to Florida‘s clash against East Carolina in the 2025 Conway Regional, O’Sullivan was caught on camera angry with NCAA site officials and a few people who worked for Coastal Carolina (who was hosting the Regional). Video emerged of the situation, showing O’Sullivan quite animated prior to first pitch.

Following the game, it was announced that O’Sullivan was suspended by the NCAA for his blowup, which went viral on social media. He was handed a three-game suspension to open the 2026 season, but it is unclear whether or not he will be back in time for Florida‘s season opening series against UAB February 13-16.

Florida was eliminated from the tournament and by Monday evening, statements were released by O’Sullivan. He apologized to multiple parties involved in the Conway Regional for his actions and promised to learn from them moving forward. Specific names were included as well, giving an idea of who the head coach was upset with on the day.

Florida’s coach issued statement following suspension

“Prior to yesterday’s NCAA Tournament game against East Carolina, I let my emotions get the best of me and channeled that energy in a way I should not have,” O’Sullivan said. “I want to sincerely apologize for my actions and behavior to the entire NCAA Regional field of Coastal Carolina, East Carolina, and Fairfield, the NCAA — including site representatives Rich French and Mark Scalf — as well as all of Gator Nation.

“I did not represent the University of Florida to the appropriate standard yesterday and I take full responsibility for that, and promise to learn from this experience and be better moving forward. Appreciate all of the tireless efforts on behalf hosts Coastal Carolina, their Tournament Director Bryan Stiles, and the NCAA over the course of the NCAA regionals, and am sorry for allowing this instance to get in the way of an otherwise great weekend of postseason baseball.”

On3’s Griffin McVeigh contributed to this article.