TULSA, Okla. — The University of Tulsa has named former Golden Hurricane slugger Crissy Strimple as the school's sixth head softball coach, Vice President & Director of Athletics Derrick Gragg announced on June 12. Strimple has spent 14 seasons in the Tulsa dugout as a player and coach, including the last eight seasons as the associate head coach.
During her time with the Golden Hurricane, Tulsa student-athletes earned 64 all-conference honors, 29 NFCA All-Region laurels and six NFCA All-America awards. The program amassed 464 wins, five regular-season conference titles, six conference tournament crowns and 10 NCAA Regional appearances.
"As a 12-year assistant who has helped build the Tulsa softball program both as a coach and student-athlete, Crissy is the ideal person to take over as head coach," Gragg said. "She has demonstrated an outstanding ability in all aspects needed to be a successful head coach at the highest level of collegiate softball. Crissy's attributes in coaching and recruiting, as well as her loyalty, work ethic and commitment to her Alma Mater make her the perfect fit in continuing the success of Tulsa softball."
"It is an honor to accept the position of head softball coach at The University of Tulsa," Strimple said. "Sincere and heartfelt thanks to Dr. Gragg and Crista Troester for trusting me with this opportunity. Coaching the Golden Hurricane has been a dream of mine since I played here in 2003. The university and City of Tulsa hold a special place in my heart and to represent both is an honor.
"Many thanks to John Bargfeldt, my mentor and friend for life, for his guidance over the last 12 seasons. Coaching under John, I have learned so much about the game and how to do things the right way. His influence on Tulsa softball will endure for a long time to come. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors. I am excited to assume my new role and, with the help of my coaching staff and student-athletes, I look forward to continuing and building upon our winning tradition."
Strimple mentored the Tulsa infielders and served as the recruiting coordinator in her role as associate head coach. Her infielders have produced six NFCA All-Region selections, 23 all-conference awards and an All-America honor. She was instrumental in the development of Jill Barrett, who claimed three all-conference certificates and closed her career in 2014 as a second-team NFCA All-American and Conference USA Player of the Year.
Release courtesy of Tulsa Athletics