Coolens to step down from coaching Grace Softball
WINONA LAKE, Ind. – Co-head coaches Bo Coolen and Sam Coolen have decided to step down from leading Grace’s softball team.
The Coolens will pursue new opportunities closer to family in California, resigning after a three-year tenure at the helm of the Lancers.
“We want to thank Dr. Drew Flamm and Coach Briscoe for giving us the opportunity to lead the softball program at Grace. It has truly been a dream come true to coach at Grace for the last three years,” said Bo Coolen. “This has been one of the hardest decisions because of how much Grace means to us. Over the last three years, we have seen tremendous growth in the program through hard work and dedication from all of those who have worn the Lancer Softball jersey. We look forward to seeing how the Lord leads Grace softball moving forward.”
The married couple came to Winona Lake in the summer of 2021 and coached Grace for the past three years. They saw continued improvement from the Lancers; Grace won its most games this spring since 2017.
“My family and I are forever grateful for our time at Grace College. The past three years here have been so special. The young women that we were able to coach will forever hold a special place in my heart. I know the Lord is going to do amazing things through each one of them,” said Sam Coolen. “This was our decision and while it was a difficult one, it is what we felt was best for our family. I am confident in saying that we have left this program better than we found it, and the future is extremely bright for Grace Softball.”
A national search will begin immediately for Grace’s next softball head coach. Interested candidates should email A.D. Chad Briscoe at [email protected].
“We are very thankful for the dedication that Bo and Sam poured into our softball program for the past three years,” said Grace’s Director of Athletics Chad Briscoe. “We are thankful for how the Lord has blessed our softball program under the Coolens’ leadership, and we understand and respect their desire to move closer to family. We wish nothing but the best in the future for Bo, Sam and Colt!”
