Courtesy of Arizona Athletics
TUCSON – Arizona head softball coach Mike Candrea announced changes to his coaching staff on Tuesday, promoting Stacy Iveson and Caitlin Lowe while announcing the addition of Jenae Leles to the staff.
Stacy Iveson, who has served as the assistant coach for the last three years, has been promoted to associate head coach. Caitlin Lowe, who served as the team’s volunteer assistant coach in 2013, will now take on a full-time role with the team, assuming the position of assistant coach. Jenae Leles will join the staff as the volunteer assistant coach.
“This coaching staff brings a tremendous amount of energy, passion and commitment to improving our athletes while pursuing excellence at the highest level both on and off the field,” said Candrea, who is entering his 29th season at the helm of the program. “They all know what it takes and have experienced winning a national championship.”
Iveson, a player under Candrea from 1986-89, coached at Arizona from 1995-2001 before returning prior to the 2012 season. During her hiatus, she served as head coach at Pima Community College and Yavapai College, where she won four NJCAA national titles. Iveson will be the team’s pitching coach and also work with the catchers.
“Stacy is a proven winner and will be working with our pitchers and catchers along with overseeing our recruiting efforts,” Candrea said. “She brings an abundance of experience and has been a proven winner at every level she has coached. As a former player and assistant coach, she is a dedicated Wildcat and an extremely hard worker. I’m proud to promote her and acknowledge her coaching talent and dedication to Arizona softball.”
Lowe, a two-time national champion and four-time All-American at Arizona, has been a part of the Arizona staff for the last two seasons, serving as the director of operations in 2012 and the volunteer assistant coach in 2013. Lowe was recently named to the all-NPF team as her team, the USSSA Pride, won its second-consecutive NPF Championship, and she will continue to compete professionally in the offseason. The 2007 graduate will continue to coach the outfielders and work with slappers and base running for the team.
“Caitlin is one of the best that has ever played the game,” said Candrea. “She brings a strong passion, knowledge of the game, and has worn the Arizona uniform. As a former Wildcat, Olympian and a mainstay in the NPF, we are very excited to have Caitlin on board full time. Our players will benefit greatly from her knowledge and passion for the game. She’s a great teacher and will be a great asset to our future recruiting efforts.”
Leles, a UA letterwinner from 2006-09 and an All-American in 2009, brings national championship (2006, 07) and USA Softball experience to the team. During her playing career, she hit 57 home runs, which are the eighth most in Arizona history. Leles will assist in coaching the infield, specifically the corners, the two positions she played while at Arizona.
“Jenae brings a wealth of playing experience as a former national champion and a past member of our USA National team, Candrea added. “She has a great approach to the game and has been a private instructor in Sacramento, Calif. following her national team career. I love her no nonsense approach to the game and her passion for Arizona softball. Our players will benefit from her game experience and pursuit of excellence in committing to the process.”
Additionally, Arizona will welcome back 2013 seniors Alex Lavine and Shelby Babcock as undergraduate assistant coaches. Jessica Spigner will return as the graduate manager.
Arizona begins fall practice Sep. 26 and begins its fall season with the Fall Round Robin on Oct. 4.
For additional coverage of Arizona softball, visit ArizonaWildcats.com and be sure to follow the team on Twitter (@UA_Softball).
