Roman Kula, a native of Toronto, Canada, and transfer from Des Moines Area Community College, left an exceptional legacy on the Mount Marty University baseball program as both a dominant pitcher and productive offensive player. Known for his impeccable control on the mound, high baseball IQ, and strong leadership, Kula was a fierce competitor who helped define one of the most successful eras in program history. Competing for the Lancers during the 1993 and 1994 seasons, he played a central role in a combined 68-21 record under Mount Marty Hall of Fame Head Coach Bob Tereshinski.
In 1993, Kula posted an 8-3 record with three saves and a 3.19 ERA while also contributing offensively with a .418 batting average, two home runs, and 21 RBIs. His performance helped lead the Lancers to the South Dakota NAIA/Sub-District 12 Championship and a District 12 Runner-Up finish. For his efforts, he earned NAIA District 12 honors and was recognized as an NAIA Scholar-Athlete.
Kula elevated his play even further during the 1994 season. He finished with a 10-2 record, four saves, and a 2.39 ERA while also batting .350 with 55 hits, 35 runs scored, three home runs, and 42 RBIs. His outstanding season earned him All-South Dakota NAIA honors, All-District 12 recognition, and Co-Team Most Valuable Player honors. He was also named an NAIA Scholar-Athlete for the second consecutive year.
The 1994 Lancers achieved historic success, capturing another South Dakota NAIA/Sub-District 12 Championship and finishing the season receiving votes in the NAIA national rankings. The team established a school-record 23-game winning streak and set a program record with 36 victories, with Kula playing a major role in that success.
At the time of graduation, Kula held multiple program records, including appearances in a season, innings pitched, and saves in a season. His 10 victories in 1994 established a school record at the time, while his eight wins in 1993 ranked second in program history. He also ranked among the program leaders in complete games, innings pitched, at-bats, and career victories.
More than three decades later, Kula remains among Mount Marty's all-time leaders in single-season wins, innings pitched, complete games, and career victories. His versatility as a two-way player, combined with his leadership and competitive spirit, helped establish a championship culture that contributed to the continued success of Mount Marty Baseball.
