MOUNT VERNON, Ohio. – Mount Vernon Nazarene University Athletics is excited to announce the hiring of Mark Pratt as the next head coach of the softball program on Thursday, July 24.

“We are excited to have Coach Pratt leading our Lady Cougars softball program,” said Director of Athletics, Chip Wilson. “His experience working with Coach Howald for 11 years and knowing the culture of the program and the MVNU mission will be helpful in the coaching transition.  We look forward to the continued impact of the MVNU softball program on young lives under his leadership.”

Pratt brings with him 11 years of NAIA and Crossroads League coaching experience. Pratt, who has served as MVNU’s assistant softball coach from 2013-2024, has been a key component in the team’s success over the years. Pratt’s contribution to the growth of the program has been evident, as he has been a part of seven consecutive winning seasons, and helped the team reach its first top 25 NAIA national ranking in 2023.

Pratt specialized in pitcher-catcher development and worked with the outfielders and hitters, displaying a vast knowledge of the game while contributing to team-wide player growth and competitiveness. Off the field, Pratt has served as the primary recruiter in his time at MVNU, bringing a wealth of talent to campus, including three of the programs top four all-time strikeout leaders.

“I would like to thank everyone involved for giving me the opportunity to be the head softball coach at MVNU. It is such a special place filled with special people serving others for Christ,” said Pratt. “I really enjoyed the 11 years I’ve spent under Coach Howald – I learned so much from her. It’s an honor to be able to carry on the 37-year legacy that she created and build upon the success and tremendous culture she developed during her tenure. I am very excited about our team and cannot wait to get started. Go Cougars!”

Prior to his time at MVNU, Pratt served as a softball coach at Tree of Life Christian schools from 2001-2012. Mark has been married to his wife, Kayla for 44 years and is the father to five children (four daughters). Three of his daughters are graduates of MVNU.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,100 students from 33 states and 26 foreign countries.