AVE MARIA, Fla. --- Softball head coach John Kelly has announced the hiring of Brett Sauerwein as an assistant coach. Sauerwein comes to Ave Maria after previously working as an assistant at Missouri Baptist.

"We are excited to have Brett joining the Ave Maria Softball program. Brett brings solid collegiate coaching experience from a successful NAIA program," said head coach John Kelly. "His enthusiasm, knowledge of the game and Midwest work ethic make Brett a perfect fit to help advance the Ave softball program to national prominence over the next few years."

After graduating from McKendree University in Illinois with a leadership in sport and exercise science degree, Sauerwein accepted a GA position at Missouri Baptist. At Missouri Baptist, he earned his Master's degree in Sport Management while working as assistant coach for their softball program.
 
In 2016, Sauerwein primarily worked with the hitters and infield as they team posted a 28-25 record. They hit .287 as a team and had a .962 fielding percentage. The team made the AMC tournament and had three players selected to the all-conference team. During the 2017 season, he worked with pitchers and the infield and the team boasted a 2.92 team ERA.
 
Last season, Sauerwein transitioned to a full-time assistant coach and head junior varsity coach. The team went 31-22 and set a school record for wins. The team had a fielding percentage of .959 and made the semifinals of the conference tournament.