Kennesaw, Georgia, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Kennesaw State University has announced the appointment of Selena Collins-Patterson as the new head softball coach. With over 22 years of coaching experience, including roles at NCAA Division I institutions and as a lecturer at KSU, Collins-Patterson brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. She has a distinguished background as a Texas A&M Hall of Fame catcher and has contributed significantly to student-athlete development. This new chapter for KSU softball follows the decision not to renew the contract of the previous head coach.
Kennesaw, Georgia Welcomes New Head Softball Coach at Kennesaw State University
Exciting news has arrived for the Kennesaw State University (KSU) community! On September 15, 2025, the university announced the appointment of Selena Collins-Patterson as the seventh head softball coach in its history. The decision was made public by Director of Athletics Milton Overton, who is thrilled to introduce Collins-Patterson to the KSU family.
A Seasoned Coach with a Wealth of Experience
With more than 22 years of experience under her belt, Collins-Patterson brings a rich background in coaching that spans NCAA Division I, high school, travel leagues, and private academies. Currently, she is at the helm of the softball program at Marist School and also serves as the CEO and president of the Atlanta Vipers Fastpitch Organization. Her extensive experience not only enriches her coaching but also aligns well with KSU’s commitment to developing strong, responsible student-athletes.
Deep Ties to Kennesaw State
Collins-Patterson has been part of KSU since 2014, working as a lecturer and teaching courses on wellness, coaching principles, and advanced sport coaching. This connection to the university enhances her understanding of the KSU culture and values, making her a fantastic fit for the head coach position.
A Legacy of Success in Softball
Collins-Patterson isn’t just a coach; she has impressive credentials in the sport as well. As a Texas A&M Hall of Fame catcher, she has earned numerous accolades, including being named the Big 12 Player of the Year, an All-American, and a former team captain. She also played for the USA National Team and gained recognition while competing professionally in the National Pro Fastpitch League with NPF All-Star honors.
Proven Leadership and Achievements
Her coaching journey includes notable positions at Trinity University, where she led her team to a conference championship and earned the title of Coach of the Year. Similarly, at Pace Academy, she secured a region title and similarly received Coach of the Year honors. Additionally, she contributed her expertise as an assistant coach at Sam Houston State and as the softball director for the National Baseball and Softball Academy.
A Focus on Student-Athlete Development
Collins-Patterson is committed to nurturing young talent. Her leadership with the Atlanta Vipers 2030 travel team has already resulted in multiple championships, including the prestigious PGF Super Select 12U Southeast title. She is not just about wins but is dedicated to shaping well-rounded individuals.
Education and Future Endeavors
Her academic credentials are impressive as well. Collins-Patterson earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M in 2004 and a master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University in 2012. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD at Concordia University Chicago, showing her dedication not only to her sport but also to her education and growth.
A New Chapter for KSU Softball
The announcement of Collins-Patterson’s appointment comes after a decision not to renew the contract of the former head coach, Tripp MacKay, who had a record of 145-198 over seven seasons. In the interim period, KSU assistant coach Crystal Hampton will serve as the interim head coach while the university transitions into this exciting new chapter.
Looking Forward
As KSU embarks on this new journey, Collins-Patterson has expressed her honor and excitement for the opportunity to lead the softball program. Her commitment to mentoring young women and advancing the spirit of KSU Athletics sets a positive tone for the future of the program. With her at the helm, the KSU softball community can look forward to a bright and promising season ahead!
FAQ Section
Who is Selena Collins-Patterson?
What are her qualifications?
What is her coaching philosophy?
Who was the previous head coach at KSU?
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Position | Head Softball Coach at Kennesaw State University |
| Experience | Over 22 years in coaching across various levels |
| Educational Background | Bachelor’s from Texas A&M, Master’s from Texas Woman’s University, PhD candidate |
| Previous Awards | Texas A&M Hall of Fame, Big 12 Player of the Year, multiple Coach of the Year honors |
| Current Role | Lecturer at KSU and CEO of Atlanta Vipers Fastpitch Organization |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- KSU Owls: Selena Collins-Patterson Named Seventh KSU Softball Head Coach
- Sports Illustrated: Kennesaw State Will Not Renew Softball Head Coach Tripp MacKay’s Contract
- KSU Owls: KSU Announces Leadership Transition in Softball Program
- Wikipedia: General Knowledge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: General Knowledge
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