University of Delaware Athletics
Christian, Stauffer Remain with Softball Program, Join Coaching Staff
8/23/2022 10:00:00 AM | Softball
NEWARK, Del. – A couple of graduating members of the 2022 University of Delaware softball team have decided to return to the Blue & Gold and will remain with the program on the coaching staff. Kailey Christian will serve as the team's graduate manager, while Megan Stauffer will act as the volunteer assistant coach.
"There are a lot of proud moments you get to experience as a coach, but one of my favorites is when our former athletes have a desire to stick around with the program and give back in a different capacity," said Head Coach Jen Steele. "I am thrilled that both Megan and Kailey are joining us this year. Not only were they pivotal in helping us secure the regular season championship this spring, but they both positively impacted our team culture. I can't wait to work with them in a different capacity and am excited that our current athletes get to learn from them in a new role."
Christian, who graduated from Delaware with a degree in finance this spring, was a key member of the program for three seasons after transferring to UD as a sophomore. In her time in a Blue Hen uniform, Christian registered a career .244 average with five home runs and 34 RBI. She hit a game-winning grand slam in the eighth inning of an elimination game during the 2021 CAA Tournament. As a senior in 2022, Christian had 12 extra-base hits and 23 RBI while scoring 19 runs. She also made 24 career appearances in the circle, going 6-4 with a 3.40 ERA.
"I am beyond happy and honored to come back and work with Delaware softball," said Christian. "I'm excited to continue my journey with this team and continue to help make an impact to the program. Go Hens!"
Stauffer joined the program for the 2022 season as a graduate transfer. In her lone season with the Blue Hens, Megan appeared in 20 games in the circle, registering a 1-1 record with a 2.98 ERA in 47.0 innings. She made 17 appearances out of the bullpen and led the CAA, as well as set a Delaware record, with five saves.
"I am beyond excited for the opportunity to join the Delaware softball coaching staff," said Stauffer. "I am eager to help in the bullpens and with the team while gaining more knowledge of the game from the best coaches. I am so grateful for this opportunity and can't wait to get started this Fall. Go Hens!"
Delaware finished the 2022 season with a 29-16 overall record, including three wins over Power Five opponents (Purdue, N.C. State, Penn State), and went 11-4 in conference play, winning the program's first-ever CAA Regular Season Championship. Hanna Garber was named the CAA Defensive Player of the Year, the first Blue Hen to win the award, and Head Coach Jen Steele was selected as the CAA Coach of the Year while a league-high five Blue Hens earned All-CAA honors.
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