Nicole May and Kinzie Hansen Return as Associate Coaches for Oklahoma Softball
In the world of collegiate softball, few programs command the respect and attention that the University of Oklahoma has earned over the past few years. The Sooners, under the guidance of head coach Patty Gasso, have established themselves as a powerhouse, consistently dominating the NCAA tournament and securing multiple national championships. But while the team’s success is a reflection of the culture and leadership cultivated by Gasso, it is also a testament to the invaluable contributions of assistant coaches who bring their expertise to the table.
Two such coaches, Nicole May and Kinzie Hansen, have returned to their roles as associate coaches for the Sooners, further solidifying the team’s pursuit of excellence. Their return to the coaching staff is not only a significant moment for the program but also an opportunity to highlight their individual journeys and the impact they’ve had both as players and coaches. Their experience and connection to the program make them pivotal in Oklahoma’s ongoing success as a national title contender.
The University of Oklahoma softball program has long been regarded as one of the most successful in NCAA history. With multiple NCAA championships to their name and a legacy built on consistent excellence, the Sooners are known for their aggressive playing style, high-level competition, and an emphasis on developing both talent and character. Patty Gasso, who has been at the helm since 1995, has been the driving force behind much of the program’s success, leading the team to numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, including several Women’s College World Series (WCWS) titles.
Under her leadership, Oklahoma has maintained its reputation for producing top-tier athletes. The program has not only focused on winning but on shaping young women into future leaders—on and off the field. Gasso’s coaching staff plays an integral role in this culture, and with the return of Nicole May and Kinzie Hansen, the team has added even more depth to its coaching pedigree
Nicole May’s return as an associate coach is a full-circle moment for the Oklahoma Softball program. Having played for the Sooners from 2017 to 2021, May was an integral part of the team’s pitching staff. A versatile and dominant pitcher, she was known for her composure on the mound and ability to execute when it mattered most. May’s impressive career as a player—highlighted by multiple All-Big 12 and All-American honors—has given her a wealth of experience to draw upon as a coach.
During her time as a player, May helped the Sooners secure multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and was part of the team’s 2020 WCWS championship victory. Her understanding of the game’s strategic elements, particularly from a pitching perspective, makes her invaluable in shaping Oklahoma’s future talent.
May’s coaching philosophy is grounded in her playing experience. She knows the pressures and challenges that come with being a student-athlete at a premier program like Oklahoma, and she strives to instill confidence and mental toughness in her players. Her return to the Sooners’ coaching staff brings an added layer of expertise to an already exceptional pitching staff. She has a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and her ability to translate that knowledge to her players is something that makes her an exceptional mentor.
In addition to her pitching acumen, May is highly regarded for her work ethic and leadership. During her time as a player, she was a vocal leader on the team, often stepping up to motivate her teammates during key moments. As a coach, she brings that same drive and determination, pushing her players to improve their skills while also fostering an environment of teamwork and camaraderie.
Kinzie Hansen’s story is equally compelling. A former standout catcher for the Sooners, Hansen played a pivotal role in Oklahoma’s offensive success during her playing career. Her leadership behind the plate and ability to contribute offensively made her one of the program’s top players from 2018 to 2021. As a hitter, Hansen was a constant threat at the plate, and her ability to read pitchers and execute in clutch situations set her apart.
Hansen’s journey to the coaching staff is a natural progression, as she has long been a student of the game. After finishing her playing career, she quickly transitioned to coaching, eager to pass on her knowledge to the next generation of Sooners. Her expertise in reading pitchers, managing the game from the catching position, and developing offensive strategies make her an invaluable asset to the program.
As a coach, Hansen works closely with the team’s hitters and catchers, helping them refine their skills in both areas. She focuses on the mental aspect of the game, teaching players how to maintain focus during high-pressure situations and how to adjust their approach at the plate. Her experience as a top-level player gives her a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed at the highest levels, and her coaching philosophy emphasizes mental toughness and adaptability.
The return of Nicole May and Kinzie Hansen as associate coaches for Oklahoma Softball is a significant boost for the program. Both coaches have extensive knowledge of the game, not only from a tactical standpoint but also from a personal experience perspective. They understand what it takes to compete at the highest levels, having achieved success themselves as players for the Sooners.
Their presence on the coaching staff also provides a sense of continuity and stability. Both May and Hansen have deep roots within the Oklahoma softball community, and their return reinforces the program’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. They have been through the highs and lows of college softball, and their leadership will undoubtedly help guide the next generation of Sooners to success.
Moreover, their return is a testament to the program’s commitment to fostering an environment where former players can continue to contribute in meaningful ways. It’s one thing to bring in experienced coaches from outside the program, but it’s another to nurture and retain former players who have a deep understanding of the team’s culture and values. May and Hansen are both examples of the type of leadership that Oklahoma’s softball program has been built upon—players who excel on the field, and who continue to contribute as mentors and coaches after their playing days are over.
In many ways, assistant coaches are the unsung heroes of college softball programs. While head coaches like Patty Gasso are often the face of the team, it is the assistant coaches who work directly with the players, day in and day out, to help them refine their skills and improve. Coaches like May and Hansen play a pivotal role in helping players develop, providing guidance and support when it matters most.
Nicole May’s expertise in pitching is essential for maintaining Oklahoma’s dominance in the circle. The Sooners have long been known for their strong pitching staff, and May’s return ensures that the team will continue to excel in this area. Her ability to work with pitchers on their mechanics, mental approach, and game strategies will be key as Oklahoma looks to defend its titles and chase future championships.
Kinzie Hansen, on the other hand, plays a vital role in shaping the Sooners’ offense. As a former catcher, she brings a wealth of experience in managing games from behind the plate and working with pitchers to strategize and control the game. Her work with the hitters is also invaluable, as she helps them adjust their approach and develop the mental toughness required to succeed in clutch situations.
With the return of Nicole May and Kinzie Hansen, Oklahoma Softball is not just focusing on the present but also building for the future. Both coaches have the experience and expertise to help Oklahoma continue its tradition of excellence, and their ability to develop players will be crucial in maintaining the program’s competitive edge.
Looking ahead, it is clear that the Sooners are well-positioned to continue their success for years to come. The leadership of coaches like May and Hansen ensures that the team will not only compete for national championships but also continue to develop the next generation of top-tier players. Their passion for the game and commitment to the program will serve as a driving force as they help the Sooners reach even greater heights in the future.
