Bio

Fitchburg State University has named Merry MacDonald as the tenth head coach in the history of the softball program. The announcement was made by Sue Lauder, Director of Athletics at the University.

“I am pleased to name Merry MacDonald as the head softball coach at Fitchburg State University,” said Lauder. “Merry’s softball background, both as a player and as a coach, have prepared her well for this opportunity.” 

“I am extremely excited and honored to become part of the Fitchburg State University athletic community,” said MacDonald. “From the moment I arrived to campus, I could feel a sense of pride and commitment that both the faculty and student-athletes share.” 

MacDonald takes over at the helm of the Falcons softball program after serving the past two years as an assistant coach at Springfield College. With the Pride, MacDonald was responsible for all the recruiting needs of the program, while also assisting with game day operations and administrative duties. She graduated from Springfield in 2012 with a Master’s Degree in Athletic Administration.

In addition to her experience at the collegiate level, MacDonald has also enjoyed a pair of summer coaching stints, one with the Braintree Blue Diamonds 14U Junior Olympic softball team, and the second with the 18U Mass Inferno Junior Olympic softball team.

A 2010 graduate of Endicott College, MacDonald was a four-year member of the Gulls softball team, earning the 2010 TCCC Senior Scholar Athlete award, the 2009 TCCC Player of the Year honor, and three All-TCCC selections. MacDonald was also a three time NFCA Regional All-American, while graduating Suma Cum Laude in Sports Management.

In addition to her coaching duties, MacDonald will also serve as the department’s Compliance Officer, Senior Women’s Administrator and CHAMPS/Life Skills mentor. She will assume all duties effectively immediately.

“I am looking forward to working with these talented student athletes in developing them not only as athletes but as successful members of the community,” said MacDonald. “In doing so, I hope to build upon the tradition and success of this program in the years to come.”