In a milestone event held in May 2019, Kimberlee Walston made her commitment to Holy Names University in Oakland official to play softball. Behind her stood a cohort of important figures, including former athletic director Tom Petithomme, current head baseball coach Jason Chatham, and former coaches, all united in celebrating this achievement.
The Grizzlies softball team enters a new era as Todd Pridy accepts the role of head coach, succeeding Ron Walston, who led the team for eight of the last nine seasons. Pridy, a well-known face around the baseball circuit, demonstrated his adaptability last season when he replaced Walston five times, receiving considerable praise and experience.
Having dedicated 17 years to the Napa High baseball program, Pridy is no stranger to the field. From 2002 to 2018, he guided the Napa team to remarkable success, winning Monticello Empire League titles in 2007, 2009, and 2012. His illustrious career earned him a place in the Napa Athletic Hall of Fame High in 2004.
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Pridy commented on the smooth transition, saying, “With Ron stepping down after a successful tenure, a position was vacant, and I was fortunate to gain direct experience managing the team last spring. I I’m leaning on friends from baseball who now coach softball to help me navigate this new landscape.” Her collaboration with longtime assistant coach and veteran softball educator DeAnna Bowers will be essential in this transition.
Bowers, with a rich softball cheering history, brings valuable knowledge to the Grizzlies. A three-time former San Mateo County Player of the Year and an All-American at Utah State, she is poised to become a cornerstone of the coaching staff. Pridy has previously recognized her expertise as crucial, saying: “She is a calming and incredibly competent presence in the game.”
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Despite graduation losses impacting the team’s experience, Pridy is optimistic about his roster. He noted the team’s positive reception to the organizational changes, consistent with its communications strategies established during its extensive baseball career. “Young athletes are all alike, and organization is key, regardless of gender,” he added.
As he embarks on this softball journey, Pridy remains grounded in his coaching philosophy. Although analytics play an increasingly significant role in modern sport, he is determined to trust his instincts, emphasizing: “Ultimately, we need strong contact, and I rely heavily on that I see during the game.” With a fresh perspective injected into the program, the Grizzlies are ready to take on the challenges of the Vine Valley Athletic League and North Coast Section under Pridy’s leadership.
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As the new season approaches, the Grizzlies and their devoted fans are looking forward to it. Pridy’s immense experience, coupled with a fresh vision, might just be the recipe for success.
