DURHAM – Assistant coach Olivia Watkins is one of three new faces to join the Blue Devils’ coaching staff this season. Watkins came to Durham in July after a three-year stint as an assistant coach at Boston College, where she worked on the defense, baserunning and slap-hitting.
Prior to her time at Boston College, Watkins spent two seasons as an assistant coach at Dartmouth College, where she coached hitting, baserunning and infield defense, as well as two seasons at the University of Illinois as a volunteer assistant coach.
The Florence, Ala., native played four years at Western Kentucky University and had a standout softball career as a Hilltopper. Watkins graduated in 2015 as the program’s all-time leader in batting average (.380) and stolen bases (117).
Watkins also spent time in professional softball, as the first Western Kentucky alumna to sign with National Pro Fastpitch (NPF). Watkins played for the Akron Racers, Pennsylvania Rebellion and Houston Scrap Yard Dawgs.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to lay the foundations and be a part of a championship caliber program.” said Watkins.
Q&A
How have the first few months in Durham been so far?
“My first couple of months here in Durham have been great so far. Everything honestly has surpassed my original expectations.”
Can you talk about your early days of playing softball and how you got into the sport?
“My siblings and I were involved in many sports and my older sister actually played softball before me. I gave it a shot and always enjoyed playing. But something changed when I saw Natasha Watley playing on television. After that, softball became something I wanted to pursue beyond the after-school activity that it had been.”
What are your goals for your first year at Duke and what is one impact you want to leave on your players?
“In my first year, I want to get to know the players and build trust among the staff. I want to continue to work and grow as a leader, to make those around me better and continue to elevate and enhance Duke softball.”
With several years of coaching under your belt, what do you feel you are bringing to Duke with this new team?
“I feel like I bring a unique style of coaching to the team with an emphasis on connection and support. I’ve lived in many different places and have been exposed to many…
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