Bio

Gracie Lopez was named Head Softball Coach at Graceland University by Director of Athletics Brady McKillip on June 9, 2026.

Lopez brings an impressive and diverse coaching background to Graceland, with experience at the NJCAA, NAIA, travel ball, and international levels. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for developing student-athletes both on and off the field while fostering programs centered on accountability, leadership, mental performance, and academic success.

Prior to joining Graceland, Lopez served as an assistant coach at State College of Florida, where she worked with hitters, catchers, and infielders while assisting with recruiting, practice planning, player development, and the program's social media presence. She previously coached at New College of Florida, helping guide the program to its first-ever postseason appearance while coaching an All-Conference performer, multiple All-Academic student-athletes, and a conference Freshman of the Year nominee. Her responsibilities also included game management, scouting reports, recruiting, travel coordination, and practice planning.

Lopez has also gained extensive experience on the international stage. She serves as the Head Coach of the Wiener Neustadt Crazy Chicklets in Austria and as an assistant coach and hitting coach for the Austrian National Team. During the 2025 season, she guided the Crazy Chicklets to a 17-9 record, the No. 1 ranking in Austria, and a runner-up finish in the Austrian league finals. Under her leadership, five players earned Gold Glove honors, one was named Silver Slugger, and another was recognized as the league's Best Batter. She also helped the Austrian National Team achieve its highest-ever finish at the European Championships.

In addition to her collegiate and international experience, Lopez has coached with Fusion Travel Softball, one of Florida's premier travel organizations, where she has helped mentor athletes pursuing collegiate opportunities. She has also worked extensively as a private softball instructor, specializing in hitting, slapping, catching, baserunning, and overall player development.

Lopez earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology from Ave Maria University and is currently completing her Master of Business Administration in Sports Management at Webber International University. A former collegiate softball student-athlete and team leader, she combines her playing experience with a passion for building championship cultures and empowering female student-athletes to reach their full potential.

Lopez officially began her duties at Graceland in June 2026 and will lead the Yellowjackets into the 2026-27 season, focusing on developing a competitive program that excels athletically, academically, and within the campus community.