SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls has announced the hiring of Tommy Downs as head coach of Cougar Softball, bringing a proven track record of transforming programs and developing championship-caliber teams.

Downs arrives at USF fresh off a remarkable three-year tenure at Dakota Wesleyan University, where he engineered one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent GPAC history. Under his leadership, the Tigers achieved their best season in program history with 34 wins in 2025 and earned their first conference playoff berth in a decade.

"I'm very excited to officially add Coach Downs to the USF family," said USF Athletic Director Jon Hart. "He has a genuine care for his student-athletes and is a proven winner. His leadership will help enhance our culture, competitiveness, academic success and many other aspects of our program."

During his time at Dakota Wesleyan, Downs' impact was immediate and comprehensive. His teams didn't just win games – they rewrote the record books, shattering 32 school records across offensive categories including hits (505), runs (301), RBIs (249), home runs (50), triples (21), doubles (102), stolen bases (98), and team batting average (.346). The Tigers' pitching staff also set a new ERA record of 3.15. Perhaps most impressively, his student-athletes excelled academically, with the team ranking 20th nationally in GPA and first in the GPAC conference with a collective 3.7 GPA.

Before revitalizing Dakota Wesleyan, Downs orchestrated an equally impressive transformation at Embry-Riddle University in Prescott, Arizona. In his tenure from 2020-2022, he guided the Eagles to a remarkable 42-8 record while earning the program's first-ever national ranking, peaking at No. 23 in the NAIA Softball Poll. His teams also captured a conference championship and defeated seven of nine top-25 opponents they faced.

His Eagles set new standards for excellence, establishing school records with a dominant 1.16 team ERA and .374 team batting average. The program achieved additional milestones including a perfect game, eight shutouts, three no-hitters (all school records), and ranked 7th nationally in triples and batting average against.

Downs brings more than 20 years of coaching experience across multiple levels, from high school and club programs to collegiate competition. As a former professional hitting instructor, he has mentored student-athletes from NCAA Division I programs through NAIA and junior college levels, developing a reputation as both a skilled tactician and mentor.

Adding to his credibility, Downs had a successful 20-season amateur baseball career that included a tryout with the Kansas City Royals organization and competition in four state championship games and two super regionals – experience that provides him with a deep understanding of high-stakes competition from a player's perspective.

"I'm incredibly honored to be named the new Head Softball Coach at the University of Sioux Falls," said Downs. "This is a program with so much potential, and I'm excited to build something special here. I believe in developing strong, high-character student-athletes and creating a culture built on passion, hard work, and belief. A big thank you to Jon Hart and the hiring team at USF for trusting me to lead this program. The journey starts now, and I can't wait to get to work."

Downs, who holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Capella University, will officially begin his duties June 23rd as he prepares for the upcoming season.

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