When injuries prematurely ended his playing days at Missouri Western, Justin McCarthy struggled to find many positives in his situation.

Instead of concluding his time on the diamond, however, McCarthy simply got a jump start on a new path — one that led him to put down a bat and pick up a lineup card.

“At the time, I really didn’t see it as a (blessing), but it opened up so many doors for me to get more involved in coaching,” McCarthy said.

The 2003 Benton graduate was introduced Thursday as Central’s new baseball coach after conducting an interview the day before. He takes over for Stan Weston, who retired at the conclusion of the Indians’ 9-10 season.

McCarthy, who played for the Griffons for two seasons and graduated in 2007, will assume his first head coaching job on the high school level after volunteering with Benton the past two seasons. He’s gained additional experience in the coaching ranks with the Andrew County Kings for the past three years — including head coaching duties this season.

During his summer stint with the Kings, McCarthy will instruct Central juniors-to-be Keaton Steele and Colton Wynes, crucial parts to next year’s youthful Indians’ squad.

“I just hope to step in and continue some of the success they’ve had recently,” McCarthy said. “The challenge is there, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Sports reporter Andy Meyer can be reached at

andymeyer@npgco.com