June 16, 2006

OLATHE, Kan. - Vincent Dima made the most of his first season as head softball coach at the University of Mobile (Ala.) by winning a national championship and garnering NAIA Softball Coach of the Year honors.  His Rams cruised through the national tournament with an unblemished record when they defeated California Baptist University 4-1 in the title game.

Dima, a 2003 graduate of Thomas University (Ga.), arrived at Mobile after coaching his alma mater to a third place national finish last year.  In just his second year as a head coach, the Rams posted the school's first national title in the sport of softball, finishing with an overall record of 50-2 and the top ranking in the final national poll.  The team's season record set a new school record for wins in a season and best winning percentage.  Mobile spent the entire season ranked at the #1 or #2 spot in the country.

Softball, which was first started in 1990 at Mobile, has an impressive legacy at the school.  During those 17 years, 13 teams have qualified for the national tournament with three fourth-place finishes and a runner-up finish in 2003. 

In addition to Dima's honor, Ram pitcher Linden Jones received Tournament MVP honors and was named the NAIA Pitcher of the Year.

Dima will be honored at the 2006 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) National Convention in Tucson, Ariz.