CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Kella Goins has officially been named head softball coach at Queens University of Charlotte, Cherie Swarthout, director of athletics, announced today. Goins was entrusted with the program as interim head coach in mid-March after the departure of former head coach, Stacey Schramm.
 
"Since asking Kella to lead our program I have watched and supported knowing that we have the right person at the right time," Swarthout stated. "She has been purposeful in her leadership, nurturing in her care of our student-athletes, and committed to delivering a Queens experience. Please join me in congratulating Kella!"
 
Since taking over the reins, Goins has led the Royals to a 10-13 overall record and an 8-10 ASUN Conference record. The very weekend she was named interim head coach, the Royals began ASUN play on the road at Stetson and returned home with their first conference series win. Queens is currently tied for fifth place in the league standings and is in a good position to qualify for the ASUN Softball Championship. The team has won three of six ASUN series, and starting pitcher Autumn Courtney has twice been named ASUN Pitcher of the Week.  
 
"I am so grateful for this opportunity that I have been given," Goins stated. "I could not be more excited for the future of this program."
 
Hired as an assistant coach in November 2021 shortly after graduating from Lincoln Memorial University, Goins was able to provide a unique perspective having been a well-accomplished student-athlete with the Railsplitters. The four-time All-SAC First Team member capped her career as the 2021 SAC Player of the Year. She also earned D2CCA All-American honors twice and was recognized on the D2CCA All-Southeast Region and NFCA All-Southeast Region Teams during her playing career. In 2019, Goins was the NCAA II National Statistical Leader in doubles per game in 2019.
 
Prior to her time with Queens, Goins served as a graduate assistant at her alma mater, where she earned an MBA after having earned her bachelor's degree in exercise science.
 
Goins is the eighth head softball coach in Queens history. In 2022, just five percent of NCAA DI softball coaches identified as black females according to the NCAA Demographic Database. 
 
What Others Are Saying About Kella Goins
"Kella Goins is one of the finest people I have been around in my time as a collegiate softball coach and one of the strongest young coaches in the game. There is no question that her leadership skills will translate into success for the Queens softball program and insure a great college experience for the student-athletes in her care. I am elated for Kella and her family and congratulate Queens on a great hire." - Ritchie Richardson, Lincoln Memorial head softball coach
 
Next Up
Queens will travel to North Alabama for their next ASUN series. They have a doubleheader scheduled for Saturday, Apr. 29, and a single scheduled for Sunday, Apr. 30. For the full 2023 schedule, click here. 

Social Media
Be sure to follow the Royals softball program on Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest news and updates surrounding the team. Fans are also encouraged to follow Queens Athletics on social media @QueensAthletics to follow all of the Royals sports in action.