Patty Gasso, the esteemed head coach of the University of Oklahoma’s softball team, has been appointed as the head coach of the USA Softball Women’s National Team (WNT). This announcement was made by USA Softball on February 3, 2025.
Gasso’s tenure at Oklahoma has been marked by exceptional success, including eight national championships and a career record of 1,515–352–2. Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing Oklahoma as a powerhouse in collegiate softball.
In her new role, Gasso will guide the U.S. Olympic Team through the 2025–2028 cycle, culminating in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. She becomes the seventh female head coach of the WNT, following predecessors such as Rosalie Sorenson, Marge Ricker, Carol Spanks, Shirley Topley, Margie Wright, and Heather Tarr.
Gasso’s involvement with the USA Softball Women’s National Team dates back to 2018, when she coached the U.S. Women’s Elite Team during the World Cup of Softball. She has also participated in various USA Softball training camps and selection trials, demonstrating her commitment to the sport and the development of aspiring athletes.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Gasso stated, “It is truly a remarkable moment in my career and a dream come true to be asked to coach Team USA. This is the highest honor I could ever receive, and I’m humbled by and thankful for the confidence USA Softball has in me.”
Craig Cress, CEO of USA Softball, praised Gasso’s selection, stating, “Throughout her career, Coach Gasso has made a significant impact on the softball community and has greatly contributed to the development of the sport. We are confident that her skills, knowledge, and experience will enhance our program, and we look forward to supporting Coach Gasso and the Women’s National Team as they strive to represent the U.S. with pride on the highest stage in the coming years.”
Gasso’s appointment is anticipated to bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the USA Softball Women’s National Team, as they prepare for the upcoming international competitions and the 2028 Olympics.