Bauer's coaching career began in 1993 assisting both the Varsity and JV programs at Newaygo High School. In 1996, he left the program to be a student assistant of the GVSU basketball team while finishing his Bachelor's degree in Biology. Between the years of 1997 and 1999, Bauer was the volunteer assistant coach at Central Michigan University (NCAA DI) while earning his Master's in Athletic Administration.
For the next three years (1999-2003), Bauer spent one year stints at Lincoln Memorial University (NCAA DII), with the Grand Rapids Hoops (former semi-professional team) and at Grand Rapids Creston High School as the Boy's Varsity Coach. He then returned back to Central Michigan University and was the Video Coordinator and Head Assistant for Jay Smith and the Chippewas between 2003 and 2006.
In 2006, Bauer began his ten year career at Grand Valley State (NCAA DII) coaching along side Head Coach Ric Wesley until 2016. His success there included winning over 72% of his team's games and participating in five NCAA tournaments including two Elite Eight appearances. His best season there was during 2007-2008 when the Lakers went 36-1 (18-0 in conference play), eventually losing in the Elite Eight while being ranked #1 in the nation. The 36 wins marked the most wins ever by an NCAA Division II team. That unforgettable season included an 85-82 exhibition upset over 8th ranked Michigan State that featured All-American Drew Neitzel.
Bauer has had the honor to coach over 20 All-Conference Student-Athletes and 16 All-Defense Team members during his illustrious career so far. This includes GLIAC Player of the Year, Callistus Eziukwu in 2007-08 and First Team honoree James Thomas in 2011-12. Thomas was a former Raider great (2008-10) who led the Lakers in scoring, rebounding and three pointers made during his senior season at GVSU.
Before arriving to GRCC, Bauer helped West Ottawa High School's girl's Varsity team double their wins from their previous year. He followed that up by helping Allendale High School's boy's Varsity team triple their win total from a year ago.
Bauer is in his third year teaching biology and chemistry at West Ottawa High School. He resides in Allendale, Michigan with his wife Jessica and sons John (2) and "Bo" Ryan (1).
