BAY MINETTE, Alabama - Mallory Meadows Radwitch is not new to the Faulkner State Community College softball team, although her role on the team has changed significantly.

In 2005, Mallory suited up as a Lady Sun Chief softball player. For two years, she represented the College on the field and in the classroom.

Today, Radwitch suites up in a different role: as Head Coach of the Lady Sun Chief Softball Team.

“I am excited about the opportunity here,” Radwitch said. “It is good to be back.”

Radwitch has a resume to impress as she sports coaching experience from Belhaven University, where she completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees after Faulkner State.

Her sophomore year at Faulkner State, Radwitch was named to the All-Alabama Academic Team for her outstanding academic and athletic accomplishments. She also received the prestigious President’s Award, which is presented to the graduating sophomore with the highest academic record.

In 2007, Radwitch received an athletic/academic scholarship to Belhaven University in Jackson, Miss. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and continued her education by earning a master’s degree in Public Administration. More importantly, Radwitch maintained an exceptional academic record while utilizing her natural talents on the softball field.

Radwitch’s list of honors and awards are nothing short of spectacular from her academic and athletic seasons. At Belhaven, those honors included: NAIA & NFCA 1st Team All-American, All-Region Softball Team and All-Conference Softball Team. She was also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Belhaven University 3.0 Blazer Club during her tenure.

At Belhaven, Radwitch was a member of the softball coaching staff while obtaining her master’s degree. In 2010, the coaching staff was named the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) coaching staff of the year for the division. Also during her two years as an assistant coach, Radwitch coached a team that finished 5th in 2010 and 3rd in 2011 at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Tournament.

When asked about her coaching philosophy, Radwitch replied with an impressive and encouraging answer.

“I want the players to see that this is not just about softball,” Radwitch said. “It’s life, and it’s life after playing.”

She continued saying that the players need to learn more than just techniques on the field. She wants them to apply to everyday life the qualities they will establish on the field, such as self-discipline, responsibility and teamwork.

“Most importantly, I want them to have fun and to get their education,” Radwitch said.

Faulkner State’s Athletic Director Jack Robertson, who has served the College for more than 40 years, was very pleased with the addition to the coaching staff.

“We are pleased to have Mallory here as our Head Softball Coach,” Robertson said. “She started here and has continuously displayed a strong work ethic on the field and in her academics. The players will learn a lot from her, and she will serve as an excellent role model to them.”