Sept. 15, 2010

ROCHESTER, Mich. – Oakland University Director of Athletics Tracy Huth has named LaDonia Hughes as the next head softball coach, announced on Wednesday. Hughes, a native of Farmville, Va., comes to OU from Western Illinois University where she served as an assistant coach for the past four seasons and guided the Fighting Leathernecks to three Summit League regular-season championships and one NCAA tournament berth.

“We feel very fortunate to bring a quality individual to Oakland that has an understanding and commitment to our mission and core values,” said Huth. “LaDonia’s wealth of professional playing experience and proven success in The Summit League makes this an exciting time for our softball program.”

While serving as the hitting coach at WIU, Hughes helped the Fighting Leathernecks lead The Summit League in team batting average in three of the past four seasons. They have broken numerous hitting records since her arrival and the team posted an impressive 40-4 record over the last two seasons in conference action.

Prior to joining the WIU staff, Hughes spent six seasons playing in the National Professional Fastpitch Association (NPF) for the Arizona Heat (2004-06), Washington Glory (2007-08) and the USSSA Pride (2009). She was drafted by the San Antonio Armadillos in 2004 at the conclusion of her collegiate career at Louisiana State University.

While playing at LSU, Hughes garnered All-America honors in 2004 and led the Tigers to the College World Series. She attended Lake City Community College for two seasons before LSU and led Lake City to the National Junior College Athletic Association national title. Hughes earned a bachelor of science degree from LSU in general studies in 2004. She also holds an associate degree from Lake City Community College in general education.

Hughes will begin her tenure at Oakland immediately.

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