The NFCA (National Fastpitch Coaches Association) gives out honors in different ways than other organizations, where things are broken down into specific regions for accolades. A lot of times, like for the All-American teams, they release regional teams and then end up making a national conglomerate. For coaching staffs to be honored, that’s a little more difficult to surmise. But that takes nothing away from the fact that Purdue and Michigan’s coaching staffs were rewarded from the organization as being the best in their respective regions.

Purdue took home the award for the Mideast Region, and Michigan for the Great Lakes Region. Michigan’s coaching staff consists of head coach Carol Hutchins, associate head coach Bonnie Tholl, assistant coach Jennifer Brundage and volunteer assistant Coach Becky Marx. This actually was no surprise, as the powerhouse Wolverine squad shared the Big 10 title and took their 11th overall softball regional in the NCAAs.

Purdue’s coaching staff includes head coach Kim Maher and assistant coaches Linda Garza and Boo Gillette. Their ride to success wasn’t as highly discussed or popularized as Michigan’s was, because as Michigan was awarded for their strong presence, Purdue was obviously sighted as an up-and-comer, as this team got their first ever NCAA Appearance this year.

Once again, this shows that the Big 10 is more than just 1) men’s sports and 2) simply basketball and football. Congratulations to these coaching staffs and keep up the great work!