July 10, 2006

Virginia Intermont College announced the hiring of Eric Senter as the college's new head softball coach.  Senter replaces former  coach Jimmy Nelson, who has assumed responsibility as head baseball coach.

Senter is a retiring police officer in Bristol, Tenn., and a former assistant softball coach at Bristol's Virginia High School.  BVHS has won the Highlands District championship and district tournament championship the past five years.

"Eric has been a strong leader with Virginia High Coach Barry Reed and we feel fortunate to gain someone with his knowledge and experience," said Heather Conley, VI Athletics Director.

Senter served as assistant under Reed from 1993-2006. Their tenure saw 12 district championships, 10 district tournament crowns, three regional titles and several times they were regional runners up. In addition, they had 16 players go on to college careers in softball, including eight at Virginia Intermont.

"To move up to the college level is a dream come true," Senter said. "I have felt the excitement of girls going on to the college level and it's a thrill for me also."

Before his tenure at Virginia High, Senter coached in the Bristol, Va., Youth Leagues, beginning in 1985.

A native of Lebanon, Va., he is a graduate of East Tennessee State University and served the Bristol, Tenn., Police Department from 1977 until his retirement this year. The department bestowed the honor of  "Officer of the Year" to Senter this year. He has also worked as an instructor of Criminal Justice at Virginia High.

Senter and his wife, Debra, have four children and a grandson.