Cassell named head softball coach at Olivet College

OLIVET, Mich. – Jennifer Cassell has been named head softball coach at Olivet College, according to an announcement by Athletic Director Ryan Shockey.

"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Olivet College athletic family," said Cassell. "I am very excited to meet the team and get the season started! The staff and coaches have already been very welcoming, and I cannot wait to make them all proud of the 2021 softball team."

Cassell comes to Olivet with 20 years of softball coaching experience and 17 years of playing experience. Her coaching experiences include time at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods (Ind.) College, Ancilla (Ind.) College and Purdue (Ind.) University North Central (PNC). In 2016 at PNC, Cassell helped the Panthers win the NAIA Champions of Character award for all the hard work off the field and in the community.

Prior to that, Cassell played softball for three years at PNC, where she earned a bachelor's of science degree in liberal studies in May 2007. She also graduated with an associate's degree in applied sciences from Ivy Tech Community College in May 2011 and became a Union Journeyman Ironworker out of Local 395.

Cassell has also worked at the high school level in the state of Indiana since 2004. Those stops included LaPorte High School, South Central Junior/High School, Washington Township High School and Winamac High School. In addition, Cassell has coached all levels of fast-pitch travel ball. Her most recent coaching assignment was the assistant/first base coach for her oldest daughter's team, Northwest Indiana Wicked 14U team in Winamac, Indiana.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Cassell to our staff," said Shockey. "She is coming to Olivet College with a wealth of softball knowledge. I am looking forward to a bright future with her leadership in the softball program."

Cassell is originally from Los Angeles, California, before settling in Indiana. She is married to her husband, Doug, and they have two daughters, Emily (14) and Brooklyn (8).