ÑÇÖÞAV

Spartans of UD highlights what makes the ÑÇÖÞAV special - the people.

Kristen Duross, MS, has elevated the UD softball program in just her first season with the Spartans as the head softball coach. She has led the Spartans to 22 wins and counting this season, more than doubling last year's win total. The Spartans are in a position to make the A-R-C tournament for the first time since 2022.

What inspired you to become a softball coach?

"I think my answer to this question is more so 'who' inspired me, opposed to 'what.' My two high school coaches and my college coach are the ones who really inspired me to pursue a career in coaching. These three made such an impact on my life; they shaped me into the coach I am today. I realized the importance of the impact they had on me, and I wanted to be able to give back, teach life lessons, and make an impact on young people's lives in that same way. Being able to watch a student grow over four to five years and really develop into a mature, successful adult is really an amazing thing."

How would you describe your coaching philosophy?

"I would describe my coaching philosophy as balanced. I wanted to get back into DIII athletics because of the strong emphasis on academics it holds. I describe my philosophy as balanced because I hold my athletes to the same standard, if not higher, in the classroom and in life as I do on the softball field.

"There are five parts to my coaching philosophy:

• Academics: I tell my athletes they wouldn't have the opportunity to play college athletics if it wasn't for the work they put in in the classroom.
• Accountability: Everyone involved in the program should be held accountable in all aspects, coaches included.
• Playing time is earned not given.
• Build a program on three things: intensity, integrity, and composure.
• Be better than you were the day before."

What has been the most rewarding part of your coaching career at UD so far?

"The most rewarding part about coaching at UD in my short amount of time so far is inheriting such an amazing group of girls. Seeing them show up every day with a smile on their face, happy to be there, ready to work hard and have fun really is the best thing ever. They are why I come to work every day."

As a coach, do you have a favorite mantra you share with your student-athletes?

"The mantra of the UD softball program is 'We Not Me. Together. All In.' This is something that has really shaped our program in a positive way.

"My favorite three quotes as a coach are 'Can't lives on won't street,' 'Practice makes improvement,' and 'Culture trumps talent.'"

In your opinion, what makes the ÑÇÖÞAV unique?

"I have worked at a few different higher ed institutions now, and UD by far is unique in the fact that we truly care about the student experience while they are here; the students aren't just a number. I think the alumni support all throughout campus speaks very highly to that. People want to give back to things and be involved with people that made a positive impact on them. Day after day you see impactful things happening all around campus."