Oklahoma Sooners softball coach Patty Gasso has once again etched her name into the annals of collegiate sports history by being named the Associated Press (AP) Women’s Softball Coach of the Year for the third consecutive year. This remarkable achievement underscores her unparalleled leadership and the sustained excellence of the Sooners’ softball program.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since taking the helm at the University of Oklahoma in 1995, Gasso has transformed the Sooners into a dominant force in collegiate softball. Her tenure is marked by an impressive record of 1,546–354–2, reflecting a winning percentage that places her among the elite in the sport . Under her guidance, the Sooners have secured eight Women’s College World Series (WCWS) championships, including an unprecedented four consecutive titles from 2021 to 2024
The 2024 Season: A Historic Four-Peat
The 2024 season was particularly noteworthy as the Sooners clinched their fourth straight national championship, a feat never before accomplished in NCAA softball history. This historic “four-peat” was capped by a decisive victory over Texas in the WCWS finals, further solidifying Oklahoma’s dominance in the sport
Recognition and Honors
Gasso’s exceptional coaching has not gone unnoticed. In addition to her AP Coach of the Year accolades, she has been named Big 12 Coach of the Year 15 times, reflecting her consistent ability to lead and inspire. Her coaching staff has also received national recognition, being honored as the NFCA National Coaching Staff of the Year multiple times, including in 2024
Leading Team USA
In February 2025, Gasso’s coaching prowess was further acknowledged when she was appointed as the head coach of the USA Softball Women’s National Team. She will lead the team through the 2025–2028 Olympic cycle, culminating in the 2028 Los Angeles Games citeturn0search2. This role not only highlights her coaching acumen but also her commitment to advancing the sport on an international stage.
Building a Dynasty
Gasso’s success is rooted in her holistic approach to coaching. She emphasizes not only athletic excellence but also personal development, fostering a culture of discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Her ability to recruit and develop talent has been instrumental in maintaining the Sooners’ competitive edge, as evidenced by their consistent top-tier recruiting classes and player development programs.
Looking Ahead
As the Sooners prepare for the upcoming seasons, expectations remain high. With Gasso at the helm, the team is poised to continue its tradition of excellence. Her leadership will be crucial as the Sooners navigate the challenges of maintaining their championship pedigree and as she balances her dual roles with Oklahoma and Team USA.
In conclusion, Patty Gasso’s third consecutive AP Women’s Softball Coach of the Year award is a testament to her enduring impact on the sport. Her legacy is not only defined by championships and accolades but also by the countless athletes she has mentored and the standard of excellence she has set for collegiate softball.
