SIOUX FALLS, S.D. –
Frankie Mickelson has been named assistant softball coach at the University of Sioux Falls, according to an announcement today (Wednesday, June 1) by USF Head Softball Coach
Shannon Pivovar.
Mickelson, who starred for the Cougars from 2017-21, joins a USF Softball Team which finished the 2021-22 season at 27-25 (11-14 NSIC) and advanced to the NSIC Tournament semifinals for the first time in program history. In the tournament, the Cougars won four of six games, battling to Saturday after falling in the opener to SMSU.
"I am not sure I have been more excited to bring an assistant coach on staff in my time at USF," said Pivovar. "Frankie brings a passion for the game of softball, for the growth of student-athletes, and for the USF family that is unmatched. I was able to watch what she was capable of with her work with our team this spring and am thrilled she has decided to come back to our family as a full time coach moving into next season," said Pivovar.
According to Pivovar, Mickelson has a background of success in softball which coupled with an upbeat and energetic personality enhances the softball program.
"Our student-athletes will directly benefit from her positive outlook, her well-rounded background, and her strong understanding of the culture of our program. This is a home run hire, and we are so thrilled she is back," added Pivovar.
Mickelson, who graduated in spring 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in social work and social sciences from USF, will be charged with various duties related to the day-to-day function of the softball team. Her direct responsibilities on the field will rest with the outfielders, baserunners, hitters, while adding to the overall energy of the program. Off the field, Mickelson will lead the team's community service endeavors, assist with the academic efforts of the current team, recruitment of future Cougars, and building up alumni relations to connect with the foundation of USF softball.
At USF, Mickelson was an outstanding center fielder who hit over .300 twice in her career (.312, 2017 & .316, 2020). Originally of Rochester, Minn., she led USF to 120 victories in five seasons. One of the league's top defensive stalwarts, she earned selection to the NSIC Golden Glove Team as a senior. She also excelled offensively and is ranked in the top-10 of 12 different USF career hitting and fielding categories.
By exhibiting tremendous inner resolve and resiliency, Mickelson was named USF's Gibby Award recipient in April 2021. In that recognition, Mickelson was honored for her perseverance and character for overcoming injuries suffered from a car accident in summer of 2020.
Four times at USF Mickelson was named to the NSIC All-Academic Team (2018-21) and was a three-time Academic All-NSIC Team of Excellence member (2019-2021). Mickelson was also named to the Easton/National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar-Athlete Team in 2019.
