Coach O’Donnell Steps Down as Head Softball Coach, Transitions to Administrative Role
6/5/2026 1:30:00 PM | Softball
KENT, Ohio - Kent State Vice President of Athletics, Randale L. Richmond, announced today that Jessica O'Donnell will step down as head coach of the Kent State softball program and transition to an administrative role within the athletics department, reporting directly to Richmond.
"For the past eight years as a head softball coach, I have poured my heart and soul into this sport and this profession," said O'Donnell. "As I have a child preparing for surgery next week, I have made the decision to step down as head softball coach with all of its time demands. I love coaching and believe I will return, when the time is right."
"I want to thank Jessica O'Donnell for her three years of service and dedication to Kent State softball," Richmond said.
During her time, the Flashes had six All-MAC selections, 13 Academic All-District selections, produced two of the top five batting average seasons in program history, had a team GPA of at least 3.4 or better every semester and multiple top 10 single-season offensive records.
A national search for the program's next head coach will begin immediately.
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