June 27, 2006

Missouri Baptist University announced the hiring of Craig Walston as the Head Softball Coach of the Lady Spartan program. Walston will assume his new duties July 1, 2006.

Walston then spent nine seasons at Webster University (Mo.) where he served as the head softball coach. While at Webster, Walston compiled a 263-90 record over nine seasons with a winning percentage of .750. Walston led his Webster teams to five consecutive NCAA Division III National Tournament bids and he was recognized as a two time Conference Coach of the Year selection and boasts of one Regional Coach of the Year honor.

Walston has been recognized for his efforts as he was named an assistant coach in 1996 and head coach in 2000 of the local St. Louis Softball All Stars who faced the United States Olympic team in softball exhibitions.

Prior to his collegiate coaching days, Walston served in the Meramec Valley School District and the Rockwood School District (Mo.) respectively as a high school mathematics teacher for 16 years.

Walston will bring much experience and success to the Lady Spartan Softball program and his ties to the St. Louis area will serve vital to his recruiting needs. Walston is a University of Missouri graduate and holds a Master's degree from the United States Sports Academy. Along with his duties as Head Softball Coach, Walston will also teach in MBU's undergraduate program.