University of Minnesota Athletics
Photo by: Brad Rempel
Coyle Announces Leadership Change in Softball
5/8/2026 11:13:00 AM | Softball
A nationwide search will start immediately for Minnesota's next head coach
University of Minnesota Thomas O. Moe Director of Athletics Mark Coyle has announced that the University has parted ways with softball head coach Piper Ritter.
Statement from Mark Coyle
"I want to thank Piper for dedicating more than 20 years to the Gopher softball program as a player, assistant coach and head coach. She coached and developed some of the best pitchers and players in program history.
"However, the program has taken a step back in the last three years and a new voice is needed. We wish Piper all the best in the future.
"We will immediately begin a nationwide search for our next head coach."
Statement from Mark Coyle
"I want to thank Piper for dedicating more than 20 years to the Gopher softball program as a player, assistant coach and head coach. She coached and developed some of the best pitchers and players in program history.
"However, the program has taken a step back in the last three years and a new voice is needed. We wish Piper all the best in the future.
"We will immediately begin a nationwide search for our next head coach."
Highlights: Gophers 3, Northwestern 2
Saturday, May 02
Highlights: Gophers 6, North Dakota 2
Tuesday, April 21
Highlights: Gophers 2, Ohio State 1
Sunday, April 05
Highlights: Gophers 2, Illinois 0
Sunday, March 29