Coaches

Tara Archibald

Eastern Illinois

* Hired as 13th head softball coach at Eastern Illinois on Aug. 5, 2019 -- Hiring Press Release


Prior To Eastern Illinois

* Pitching coach at Illinois State University (2017-19)

* Coached second team All-Missouri Valley Conference Pitcher (Morgan Day)

* Coached one All-MVC Tournament selection

* Coached pitchers that earned both MVC Freshman of the Week and MVC Pitcher of the Week honors

* Pitching staff had seven complete game shutouts in 2019 including a win over nationally ranked Indiana

* Pitching staff increased number of strikeouts by 32% in first year, 47% in second year over total in year prior to arrival

* COO/Sports Administrator/Softball Instructor at Field House Sports in Mllican, Texas (2014-17)

* Assistant softball coach at University of Georgia (2011-14)

* Helped coach team to three NCAA Regional Appearances in 2012, 2013, 2014

* Helped coach team to NCAA Super Regional Appearances in 2012 & 2014

* Helped coach team to Southeastern Conference Tournament Championship in 2014

* Coached All-American pitchers Chelsea Wilkinson (2014) and Erin Arevalo (2012)

* Helped coach SEC Freshman of the Year Geri Ann Glasco (2013)

* Head coach for Souther Force Softball (2006-11)

* Coached five future College All-American players (3 NCAA Division I / 2 NCAA Division II)

* Coached teams to four "Top 4" finishes at the 16U ASA National Championships - runner-up finish in 2007

* Assistant softball coach at Pinckneyville HS (2005-06)

* Helped coach team to IHSA Class A State Tournament 4th place finish in 2005

* Helped coach team to conference and regional titles in 2005 & 2006

* Coached Pinckneyville Junior High to 2005 IJHSAA State 4th place finish


Personal

* Played softball at Southern Illinois University

* Earned MVC Commissioner's Academic Excellence Award in 2003

* Helped SIU advance to NCAA Regional in 2003, team advanced to the final 16

* Bachelor's Degree from Southern Illinois University in 2004

* She and husband Bryan have three children

* Native of Johnston City, Illinois