Reinhardt University

Reinhardt University Athletics
7300 Reinhardt Circle Waleska, GA 30183

NAIA Georgia Southeast

Private Small Competitive team

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Coaches

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Matthew Wright

Matthew Wright comes to Reinhardt after having a successful run coaching fast-pitch softball in Houston, Texas, and Marietta, Georgia. He served as head coach for Impact Gold in Houston and the East Cobb Bullets in Marietta.

During his time in the competitive fast-pitch leagues, Wright implemented programs to enhance the growth of the athletes in the programs. He recruited top-rated players into the organization to create a higher competition level, making a stronger team.

Wright also conducted regular performance evaluations for assistant coaches, encouraging professional growth within the coaching staff.

Outside of softball, Wright was the CEO of Quartz USA in Ellijay, Georgia. He used some of the same techniques from coaching to create a successful company. He managed partnerships and strategic business relationships with contract negotiations and resolving conflicts. He specialized in enhancing brand reputation through marketing campaigns and public relations efforts.

Whether it is in the business world or on the softball field, Wright created a positive team culture resulting in increased player/employee satisfaction and retention rates. His ties to the softball community and past business relations will help in taking Reinhardt Softball to new levels with improved facilities, equipment, and a better overall experience for the student-athletes.

"We are excited to have Coach Wright here at Reinhardt University and are thrilled about his vision and leadership for our softball program," said Executive Director of Athletics Jeffrey Pourchier. "His coaching philosophy and his focus on the overall development of her players impressed the search committee." He is a teacher of the game, with a proven track record of skill development, helping student-athletes maximize their potential."

Wright had this to say about his opportunity to coach at Reinhardt, "I am eager and excited for the opportunity to join the Reinhardt athletic department, the Eagle softball program, and community," said Matthew Wright. As soon as I stepped on campus, I could feel the pride Reinhardt University has for its student-athletes, I'm beyond thankful for the trust Jeffrey Pourchier and Reinhardt University have in me to lead this program." He added, "I am focused on revolutionizing the culture within the softball program, drawing from over a decade within the highest level of coaching, training, and mentoring through various organizations. I envision an environment that emphasizes athletic success, personal growth, and academic achievement. My goal is to build a program that wins both on and off the field, creating well-rounded young women who excel in their sport and contribute positively to society. My hands-on approach and unwavering commitment to player development are at the heart of my coaching philosophy. I believe in creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where each player can reach their full potential. Through our leadership at Reinhardt Softball, I aim to prepare each player for future success in all aspects of life. Ensuring, they are equipped with the skills and values needed to thrive both in their athletic careers and beyond."

Wright is married to his wife, Shay, and they have two daughters - Maddie and Jamie Louise. They currently reside in Ellijay, Georgia. Wright is deeply committed to his faith and family, which drives his dedication to fostering young talent and instilling strong values in his players.

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Brody Blalock

Brody Blalock is in his third year with the softball program, with previous experience as a student assistant coach and on staff as the assistant coach. He has helped the softball program to develop and recruit stellar athletes and shows tremendous dedication to the university and program. He is from Calhoun, Georgia and graduated from Calhoun High School. He graduated from Reinhardt with a degree in Sports Studies and ran Track and Cross Country under Coach Jordan Turner and Coach Austin Brennan. Brody's dedication to RU Athletics, Students, and people will continue to show through his endeavors here as we head into the 24/25 season.

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Lauren Woods

Lauren Woods will be going into her second year on the coaching staff. She is dedicated to enhancing the players' development on and off the field. Coach Woods was a part of the Eagles Softball Team for three years where she was a crucial part of helping the team in any way possible. Her dedication to the team shows daily with drive to make the program and athletes better every day.