Sarah Fetters, Mississippi State University – Athletic Media Relations
STARKVILLE, Miss. – Mississippi State assistant softball coach Alan Reach has resigned from his position, effective Oct. 31, to begin working with his family’s business, according to an announcement by head coach Vann Stuedeman on Wednesday.
“It’s a move for my family,” Reach said. “I have truly enjoyed my time at Mississippi State and will miss Vann, [assistant coach] Beth [Mullins], the players and the family atmosphere of the program so much.”
Reach helped the Bulldogs to consecutive NCAA Tournament trips during his two years on staff. He guided the offense to a program-record 51 home runs in 2013 and the second-most stolen bases in a campaign in MSU history with 114.
His hitting philosophy played a large role in juniors Logan Foulks and Sam Lenahan earning National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-South Region Second Team honors. The pair was joined by Alison Owen, making it the most Bulldogs on the honor squad since 2009 and only the fourth time in program history having three or more selections.
“The Reach family business just hit the jackpot in the hiring of Alan,” Stuedeman said. “His incredible ability to negotiate and sell will be a huge asset to the company.
“I’d like to thank Coach Reach and his wife Ann for taking a leap of faith with me as I began my career as a head coach. His passion, dependability, work ethic, genuine concern for the student athlete, love of the game and for teaching the game will be sorely missed. He will always be a great friend of mine and he and his family will always be close to my heart.”
