Arkansas State University - Newport

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February 2023

Pearce Named ASU-Newport Softball Coach

NEWPORT (Ark.) – Arkansas State University-Newport is proud to announce the appointment of Kevin Pearce as the new Women's Softball Coach for the upcoming softball season. Pearce, a native of Newport, Ark., brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having worked for ASU-Newport for 12 years as a Career Coach, Student Recruiter and Community Engagement Coordinator.

Pearce is a former three-sport athlete at Newport High School where he played baseball, basketball, and football. He went on to play baseball at Williams Baptist College before graduating from Arkansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management in 2002.
 

Kevin Pearce, ASUN Student Recruiter and Head Softball Coach

Pearce has 11 years of softball coaching experience where he’s mentored players of all ages. His impressive track record includes four years as the Newport Junior High Head Softball Coach, where he led the team to a 34-4 overall record in his last two seasons. Pearce also spent four years coaching at Newport High School, where he served as Head Coach for two years and led the team to Regionals for the first time in a decade. In addition, Pearce founded the Newport Junior High softball program in 2016 and a softball travel organization based out of Newport in 2020.

Pearce's dedication to youth sports in his community has not gone unnoticed. He was awarded the Hometown Hero Award in 2019 for his volunteer work with the youth of Jackson County. He is also known for his 13 years as the radio play-by-play announcer for Newport High School, earning the Sully Award in 2022.

"I am certain that Kevin will be an aspiring coach for softball players and a great ambassador for ASUN,” said Dr. Johnny M. Moore, Chancellor of ASU-Newport. “His commitment and passion for the game, along with his love for the university, is a winning combination that will build a competitive softball program and support our efforts to ensure student success."

Pearce lives in Jonesboro, Arkansas with his wife Shannon and three daughters, Kathryn (19), Charley (5), and Annabeth (7 months).

“I would like to thank Dr. Moore for this opportunity,” said Pearce. “This position is a perfect match for me – I am excited to not only coach at the collegiate level but also in a community that is near to my heart.”

The women's softball team is set to begin competition in the 2023-2024 academic year. ASU-Newport is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association and will compete in Region 2, at the Division II level.