Columbia Welcomes Back Softball Coach Ashley Chastain
Former Gamecock Returns to Alma Mater with Big Dreams
Ashley Chastain, a familiar face in the South Carolina softball community, has made a triumphant return to her alma mater as the new head coach. The former Gamecock player from 2009-2011 has had a successful coaching career, most recently leading Charlotte to consecutive NCAA Tournaments.
Homecoming and High Hopes
Ashley Chastain expressed her excitement at the opportunity, calling it a dream come true. “When your alma mater calls, it’s a dream come true,” she said. With a strong coaching background, Chastain is eager to lead the Gamecocks to new heights and build on their tradition of postseason success.
Building a Strong Program
Chastain emphasized the importance of surrounding the program with the right people, from coaching staff to players. She aims to recruit top talent both locally and nationally to create a team capable of contending at the highest levels. “We want to win the national championship,” Chastain declared.
Focus on Pitching and Player Development
With her experience in the SEC, Chastain understands the level of competition and the importance of a solid pitching staff. She plans to focus on player development and building a coaching staff equipped with the tools for success. “So much about development comes from player connection and trust,” Chastain noted.
Setting Goals and Unifying the Team
As Chastain works on assembling her staff and roster, her ultimate goal is to instill a winning mentality within the program. She aims to win more in conference, host postseason games, and ultimately compete in front of the Gamecocks’ dedicated fan base.
Wedding Bells and Softball Dreams
While Chastain is fully focused on her new role, she will take a brief break in the fall to marry her fiancé, Robert Woodard, the head baseball coach at Charlotte. The couple shares a passion for coaching and a drive for success in their respective sports.
