Bill Vasko Named Head Coach of Saint Francis Softball

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"Coach Vasko brings a wealth of experience to our softball program," said Brazill. "We have enjoyed a lot of success on the diamond over the last decade, and we are excited to see Coach Vasko lead us into the next era of Red Flash softball."

Saint Francis University has ushered in a new era for its storied softball program, naming Bill Vasko as the 14th head coach in program history. Director of Athletics Jim Brazill made the announcement Monday, signaling the continuation of a championship legacy that includes seven Northeast Conference (NEC) Tournament titles and NCAA Regional appearances over the past eight seasons.

A Proven Leader with Decades of Experience

Coach Vasko steps into the Red Flash dugout with over three decades of coaching experience, including 15 years in collegiate softball and 10 as a head coach. Most recently, he served seven seasons at Frostburg State, where he engineered the most successful four-year stretch in the program's history-114 wins between 2021 and 2024.

Under his leadership, the Bobcats hit historic milestones:

• 31 wins in 2023 (2nd most all-time at Frostburg State)
• 29 wins in both 2022 and 2024 (tied for 4th most)
• Tied for first in the Mountain East Conference North Division in 2022
• Second place regular-season finishes in 2021 and 2024

Vasko's impact extended well beyond the win column. He mentored:

• 17 all-conference selections (3 first-team, 14 second-team)
• A conference Rookie of the Year
• A 2023 College Sports Communicators Academic All-American.

A Coach Who Builds Culture

For Vasko, it's not just about wins-it's about building leaders.

"I'm incredibly honored to be named the softball head coach at Saint Francis," said Vasko. "This program has a strong tradition of excellence, and I'm excited to build on that legacy while helping our student-athletes grow both on and off the field. Saint Francis is a special place, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead this program into its next chapter."

He added that his coaching philosophy centers on developing leaders, nurturing a championship culture, and competing with pride

A Coaching Journey Spanning the Diamond

Vasko's resume includes key roles across every level of college athletics:

• Assistant Coach at UMass Lowell (2013-17): Guided the program to its first winning season as a Division I member in 2017.
• Assistant Coach at Quinnipiac (2012): Gained NEC insight during his time with the former conference member.
• Head Coach at Wheeling Jesuit (2008-11): Led the Cardinals to 27 wins in his debut season-the third-best mark since the program's rebirth in 2002.

He began his softball journey as co-head coach and athletic director at Buckeye Trail High School in Ohio from 2002 to 2008.

Before diving into softball, Vasko built a foundation in football and baseball coaching:

• Football assistant roles at Ohio State, Ohio Wesleyan, Kenyon, Otterbein, and Denison
• Baseball assistant at Muskingum University.

A 1994 graduate of The Ohio State University, Vasko brings not only elite coaching credentials but also a deep-rooted commitment to student-athlete development.

High Praise from the Coaching Community

"Bill Vasko is one of the most well-rounded and forward-thinking coaches in the game," said Melissa Shock, current Barton College head coach and Vasko's former assistant. "He mentors his student-athletes with intention, builds strong relationships, and creates a family-first environment. Saint Francis is getting the kind of coach who makes programs better from the inside out."

Anthony Williams, Frostburg State's head baseball coach, added: "He works extremely hard for his players and knows what it takes to be successful. I look forward to following his success at Saint Francis."

With the Red Flash aiming to continue their championship legacy, Coach Vasko's arrival signals an exciting new chapter in Saint Francis softball-one built on excellence, leadership, and heart.