Shay Knighten Appointed as the New Associate Head Coach
Shay Knighten, a former collegiate and professional softball star, has been appointed as the new associate head coach for the San Diego Toreros softball team. This move marks a significant step in her transition from player to coach, bringing her championship pedigree and extensive experience to the collegiate coaching ranks.NCAA.com+6Wikipedia+6University of San Diego Athletics+6
Knighten’s journey in softball began in her hometown of Buena Park, California, where she played for the Corona Angels travel team under coach Marty Tyson. Her impressive performance in travel ball led her to the University of Oklahoma, where she played from 2016 to 2019. During her time at Oklahoma, Knighten was a pivotal player, helping the Sooners secure back-to-back national championships in 2016 and 2017. She was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2017 Women’s College World Series (WCWS), showcasing her clutch performance on the biggest stage.Wikipedia+2University of Oklahoma+2University of San Diego Athletics+2University of San Diego Athletics+3University of San Diego Athletics+3University of Oklahoma+3
Over her four-year career at Oklahoma, Knighten played in 239 games, starting 233, and achieved a .360 batting average with 247 hits and 42 home runs. She ranks fourth in program history for sacrifice flies and sixth in RBIs. Her accolades include two NFCA Second Team All-American honors and the 2017 Big 12 Player of the Year award. Wikipedia+4University of San Diego Athletics+4University of San Diego Athletics+4University of San Diego Athletics+2Wikipedia+2University of San Diego Athletics+2
Following her collegiate success, Knighten was selected 20th overall by the USSSA Pride in the 2019 National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) Draft. She contributed to the Pride’s NPF Championship that same year, further solidifying her reputation as a winner. In addition to her playing duties, she was actively involved in youth development, coaching over 200 young athletes through camps and clinics.USSSA Pride+3University of San Diego Athletics+3Wikipedia+3
Knighten’s coaching journey began in 2019 when she served as a student assistant coach for the Oklahoma softball team. This role allowed her to transition from player to mentor, gaining valuable experience in coaching and player development. In October 2020, she joined the University of San Diego (USD) as an assistant coach, working with hitters and infielders while also assisting with recruiting, scheduling, and fundraising efforts. University of Oklahoma+3University of San Diego Athletics+3University of San Diego Athletics+3
Her appointment as associate head coach at USD reflects her growth and the trust the program has in her abilities. Head coach MJ Knighten, who shares a surname but is not related, expressed confidence in Shay’s leadership, stating, “Shay is the definition of championship mindset.” She added, “Her background and resume speak for itself. She knows what it takes to win and to win often.” University of San Diego Athletics
As associate head coach, Knighten is expected to play a crucial role in elevating the Toreros’ program. Her experience as a player at the highest levels provides her with unique insights into the game, which she can impart to her athletes. Her expertise in hitting and infield play will be invaluable as she works to enhance the team’s performance in these areas.University of San Diego Athletics+4University of San Diego Athletics+4Wikipedia+4Wikipedia+2University of San Diego Athletics+2University of San Diego Athletics+2
Furthermore, Knighten’s background in player development and her involvement in youth softball initiatives align with USD’s commitment to fostering talent both on and off the field. Her leadership is anticipated to inspire the team and contribute to a culture of excellence within the program.University of San Diego Athletics+2University of San Diego Athletics+2University of San Diego Athletics+2
Shay Knighten’s appointment as associate head coach at the University of San Diego signifies a promising future for the Toreros softball team. With her championship experience, coaching acumen, and dedication to player development, she is poised to make a significant impact on the program’s success. As she continues to build her coaching career, Knighten’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how former athletes can transition into impactful coaching roles, shaping the next generation of softball talent.
