When it comes to women’s college softball, Patty Gasso’s name is a trailblazer. With a career spanning over three decades, Gasso has coached some of the most successful teams in college softball history and has become a role model for aspiring female coaches and players.
Early Life and Career
Gasso was born on August 14, 1963, in Las Vegas, Nevada. She grew up in a sports-loving family and played softball and basketball in high school. After graduating from Bishop Gorman High School in 1981, she attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she played softball and earned a degree in physical education.
After college, Gasso began her coaching career as an assistant coach at San Diego State University. In 1988, she became the head coach at Long Beach City College, where she led the team to two state championships in four years.
Success at Oklahoma
In 1995, Gasso was hired as the head coach at the University of Oklahoma. At the time, the Oklahoma softball program was struggling, but Gasso quickly turned things around. In her second year, she led the team to the Women’s College World Series for the first time in school history.
Gasso’s success at Oklahoma continued over the years, and she has become one of the most successful coaches in college softball history. Under her leadership, the Oklahoma Sooners have won four national championships (2000, 2013, 2016, 2017) and have made 14 Women’s College World Series appearances.
Impact on Women’s Sports
Gasso’s impact on women’s sports goes beyond her success on the field. She has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports and has worked to create opportunities for women in coaching and leadership positions.
In 2018, Gasso was inducted into the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame, a recognition of her contributions to the sport.
Conclusion
Patty Gasso’s career in women’s college softball has been nothing short of remarkable. She has achieved great success on the field and has become a role model for women in sports. Her impact on women’s sports will be felt for generations to come.
