Miami University head softball coach Kirin Kumar has announced the addition of Courtney Vierstra as the newest member of her staff. Vierstra, who can be found throughout Miami's record book, joins the RedHawks as a pitching coach.
 
"I am super excited for this opportunity and to work with these incredibly knowledgeable coaches," said Vierstra. "Miami has given me so much, it is an honor to be back and to give these young women the same amazing experience I had. Love and Honor!"
 
Vierstra, who just completed her playing career last May, ranks in the top-5 in eight different career pitching records. Highlighted by 84 career wins (second all-time), she also ranks second in win percentage (.667), appearances (166), starts (109) and strikeouts (1,005). She ranks third in innings pitched (779.2) and shutouts (27) and is fourth with 69 complete games.
 
A three-time first-team All-MAC honoree (2019, 2021, 2022), Vierstra was named the Mid-American Conference Pitcher of the Year in 2021.  She finished the 2021 season with a 26-5 record, throwing three perfect games and four no-hitters that season alone. Miami would go on to finish the 2021 season at 46-10 overall and 36-2 in MAC record, both conference bests.

"Officially, I am now the worst player on the coaching staff," said Kumar. "I can't think of a better person to lead our pitching staff to the next level. Courtney proved time and time again that she is willing to do what it takes to get better and not take the easy way out. She helped grow this program to heights Miami hasn't seen on the field and now it's her time to do it on the other side. She is a tremendous person and to add her to our staff, I can't wait to watch what happens." 

The Thornville, Ohio, native went 17-9 this past season, including 13-3 in conference play, helping the RedHawks to both a regular season and MAC Tournament Championship. In the past two season, the RedHawks are 86-27-1 overall and 60-7 in MAC play.
 
Vierstra completed her bachelor's degree in education from Miami and finished her master's degree in educational psychology in 2022 as she wrapped up her playing career.