Patrick & Henry Community College (P&HCC) Assistant Softball Coach Josh Gooch has been named the 2025 Easton/NFCA Assistant Coach of the Year for NJCAA Division III. This national honor, presented by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA), recognizes outstanding contributions and leadership by an assistant coach at the collegiate level.
Gooch has been instrumental in elevating the P&HCC Lady Patriots Softball program to national prominence. Entering his third season as an assistant coach, Gooch has helped guide the team to back-to-back appearances in the NJCAA DIII National Championship game—capturing the National Title in 2024 and finishing as the National Runner-Up in 2025.
“Josh has been nothing short of phenomenal since he joined our program,” said P&HCC Head Coach Roger Campbell. “He’s a tireless worker, a sharp softball mind, and most importantly, a genuine mentor to our student-athletes. His passion for the game and dedication to our team culture has helped us build something truly special here at P&HCC. This award is well deserved.”
The NFCA’s Assistant Coach of the Year awards are selected based on peer nominations and celebrate coaches who demonstrate excellence on and off the field. Gooch was recognized not only for his technical knowledge and competitive success but also for his leadership, recruiting impact, and commitment to student-athlete development.
P&HCC Athletic Director and Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement, Brian Henderson, added, “Coach Gooch has helped build a legacy that will be felt for years to come, and we’re incredibly proud to see him honored on the national stage.”
With Gooch’s continued leadership and experience, the Lady Patriots are poised for another championship-caliber season in 2026.
