Aug. 5, 2008
ORLANDO, Fla. (www.ucfathletics.com) - Head softball coach Renee Luers-Gillispie announced Tuesday that former UCF softball player Jennifer Whitley has been appointed as the Knights' new assistant coach. Whitley will serve as the softball squad's recruiting coordinator and will work specifically with the Knights' catchers and outfielders.
"I was very lucky to have the opportunity to be a Knight and play for coach Gillispie when this program was just beginning and she has been able to take this program to higher levels every year," Whitley said. "I am very blessed to have the chance to be a part of that all over again, and continue the success of the Knights."
Prior to her appointment at UCF, Whitley spent four seasons as an assistant coach at Tallahassee Community College, where she helped the Eagles win the 2008 NJCAA District H Tournament and earn a berth in the NJCAA Division I Fast Pitch Championships. Under Whitley's guidance, TCC finished as one of the final 12 teams in contention for the national title and posted a 29-24 record, its best finish in the last 14 years.
Whitley's primary responsibilities at TCC included working with the Eagles' catchers and infielders.
This will not serve as her first stint as a coach at UCF. Whitley worked as the Knights' student assistant coach from 2004-05 under Luers-Gillispie, assisting in day-to-day practice duties, while also serving as the team's manager.
Whitley joined the UCF softball team in 2003, following a two-year stint at TCC. As a third-baseman and catcher for the Knights, Whitley posted a .250 career batting average and still ranks in the top-10 on the program's all-time record with 56 RBI.
Originally from Tallahassee, Fla., Whitley earned her bachelor's of arts degree in interpersonal communications from UCF in 2005. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in sports administration at Florida State.
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