Mount Union Softball Coaching Staff Named NFCA Region VII Coaching Staff of the Year

The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) announced its 2026 ATEC/NFCA Division III Regional Coaching Staff of the Year awards, with the University of Mount Union softball coaching staff earning Region VII honors following a historic season for the Purple Raiders.

Head coach Meghan Simons, along with assistant coaches Jillia Cook, Erika Warren and Zoey Devore, guided Mount Union to a 35-7 overall record and the program’s first appearance in the NCAA Division III Softball World Series.

The Purple Raiders captured both NCAA Regional and Super Regional championships during their memorable postseason run and finished the season ranked No. 12 in the NFCA Division III Top 25 Coaches Poll. Mount Union pitcher Kendyll Cahill also earned NFCA Second Team All-America honors after a standout season in the circle.

The NFCA Regional Coaching Staff of the Year awards recognize one coaching staff from each of the NCAA Division III regions. All regional recipients are now eligible for the NFCA Division III National Coaching Staff of the Year award, which will be announced on June 12.

Mount Union’s selection highlights the continued growth and success of the Purple Raider softball program on the national stage and marks another milestone season for the Ohio Athletic Conference.

NFCA article