Olivia Scarbrough named Bethany head softball coach

BETHANY, W.Va. – Bethany College Director of Athletics Brian Sansom has announced hiring Olivia Scarbrough as the next head softball coach.

“We are excited to introduce Olivia as our next head softball coach,” says Sansom. “She has a passion and energy for teaching the game of softball. Her dedication to the student-athlete experience, paired with her knowledge and experience of the game, is a great combination for our program. We look forward to watching Olivia build off our proud history and work towards being successful on and off the field.”

“I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be named the next head softball coach at Bethany College,” says Scarbrough. “I would like to thank Director of Athletics Brian Sansom, Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi, and the rest of the search committee for providing me with the honor to lead this amazing group of young women as we pursue growth, excellence, and success together.”

Scarbrough is no stranger to the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC). She joins the Bison after spending one season as an assistant coach with PAC rival Grove City College. With the Wolverines, Scarbrough helped guide them to a program best 21 wins.

“After spending the past year in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference, I am excited to remain in a conference with hard-working athletes and competitive coaches,” adds Scarbrough. “I look forward to creating a culture that will provide the student-athletes with a rewarding Bison softball experience.”

Scarbrough’s coaching career began at Division III Houghton University, where she was the assistant coach for two years. She oversaw the infield, base running, and short game, player development, and recruiting. Scarbrough was honored as a member of the Empire 8 2022 Coaching Staff of the Year while leading Houghton to program records for most wins in a season, runs scored, and highest team batting average amongst other statistical improvements. During her tenure, Houghton ranked in the top three in the Empire 8 in fielding percentage. She coached eight All-Conference selections with all four infielders garnering a spot on the All-Conference team in 2022. Two of the infielders also received National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) All-American status.

The Sellersburg, Ind., native was a four-year letter winner for the Grace College softball team and a two-year captain and member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) from 2018-2020. Throughout her career, Scarbrough made 139 appearances with 122 starts at middle infield.

Scarbrough holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Houghton University and a Bachelor of Science degree in sports management from Grace College.