April 17, 2007

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Lee University's Emily Russell holds several records as a pitcher and she is quickly climbing up the ranks as a head softball coach. On Friday April 13, Russell collected her 200th coaching victory when the Lady Flames defeated Southern States Athletic Conference opponent Brewton Parker College 8-0.

Russell reached a milestone in just her 5th year as a head coach. Her Lee teams have averaged over 41 wins per season and currently holds a 36-10 record and are ranked 10th by the NAIA. The Lady Flames are on pace to top the 40-win mark for the third straight season. They finished in the top eight in last years NAIA national tournament in Decatur, Ala. and recorded a university record with 55 wins.

This season has been extremely busy for coach Russell. Not only has she been directing the Lady Flames to another successful campaign, she gave birth to her first child, Tyson Sean Russell in March.

"When I think about getting my 200th win, I reflect on the players that I have coached and the games that they played," said Russell after Friday's win. "I feel blessed to have coached such talented athletes that were able to achieve 200 wins in five years. Certainly, there are games that I remember and cherish. Winning conference and region tournaments at Union University in 2004 were very big games for me personally."

As a pitcher Russell hurled an amazing 305 innings during the 2000 season and struck out a school record 194 hitters. After completing her college career, she traveled to Europe and pitched professional ball for two years before returning to Lee as an assistant coach.

Russell has directed two straight Lee clubs to the NAIA National Tournament. She recalls so many big plays and big hits by her former and current Lady Flames. "There are so many instances that make me so happy to have been a part of this program. Now as the girls graduate and move on with their lives, it is like a big extended family. Lee softball is something I will always be grateful to be a part of."

Lee athletic director Larry Carpenter praised the work of his softball coach. "Coach Russell has quickly shown she has what it takes to coach at the very top," the AD stressed. "She has an eye for talent and the ability to recruit outstanding student athletes. She is an excellent motivator and situational coach. Her teams play with enthusiasm and confidence and to win 200 as quickly as she has is a testament to her skills. We are proud to have her on our staff and look forward to many more wins.