By: Nate Calvin
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
sports@thevillagereporter.com
BRYAN – Bryan didn’t have to look far for a new softball coach with experience to lead their program after Samantha Molina stepped down over the summer.
Former Edon head coach and current Golden Bear assistant coach Hilary Staten was approved as the new head softball coach during the October 14 Bryan School Board meeting.
“We are thrilled to have coach Staten as our varsity softball coach,” said Nathan Keel, Bryan’s Athletic Director.
“She has been an assistant coach with us for the past four years which has been one of the most successful four year stretches not only in the area, but the state.”
“Her vision for where we are as a team, where she wants this program to go, and how we will go about it aligns with what we look for in a head coach.”
“She has a deep understanding of the game, which she has successfully translated into her coaching career. Her focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and fostering a winning mindset has produced notable results throughout her career”, added Keel in a press release about the hiring.
Staten, who played collegiately at the University of Findlay, was 110-79 at Edon and led the Bombers to BBC titles in 2010, 2011, and 2018.
She became an assistant at Bryan in 2021 and during that time, the Golden Bears have won three NWOAL titles (2021, 2023, 2024), four district titles, and most recently Division II regional champions and state runner-up in 2024.
“I’m beyond excited to lead this talented group of girls. We’ve got big things planned and unfinished business to take care of this postseason. I’m thankful for the opportunity and I can’t wait to get to work”, said Staten.
