-- Story provided by Trine University Athletics --
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) has unveiled their honorees for the 2024 ATEC/NFCA Division III Regional Coaching Staffs of the Year, with the Trine University softball coaching staff representing Region VII. One coaching staff from each of the NCAA's ten regions were selected for the award, making them eligible for the ATEC/NFCA Division III National Coaching Staff of the Year award, which will be announced on June 12.
The Thunder are led by head coach Donnie Danklefsen in his 20th season at the helm of the program. He is assisted by Dennis Smith and Sydnie Foster. It is the second straight season that the crew has earned the award, with the staff going on to win the national award last season after the program's first national championship. It is the sixth time in his career that Danklefsen has been recognized.
Trine posted a 43-5 record for the season, tying for second most wins in program history and just the third time the team has reached the 40 wins mark. A program record and nation leading five members of the team were named NFCA All-Americans. The Thunder won their 13th total and fifth straight Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) championship and Danklefsen was named MIAA Coach of the Year.
