Annual Fundraiser

Guest Speaker: Razorback Softball Coach, Courtney Deifel

Courtney Deifel, hired as the fourth head coach in Arkansas softball history on June 11, 2015, has transformed the program in her nine seasons, guiding the Razorbacks to unprecedented success. Under her leadership, Arkansas has made seven consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including its first-ever Super Regional appearances in 2018, 2021, and 2022.

Deifel’s tenure has seen the Razorbacks win two SEC regular season championships, one SEC Tournament title, and set numerous program records, including being ranked 104 times in the NFCA Coaches’ Poll. She is the program’s all-time wins leader with 315 career victories, achieving four 40-win seasons, a feat Arkansas had never accomplished before her arrival.

In 2024, Deifel led the Razorbacks to a 37-18 record, securing a No. 12 national seed in the NCAA Tournament, marking their seventh consecutive appearance. Key players like Bri Ellis and Morgan Leinstock earned All-America honors, while freshman Kennedy Miller made an immediate impact, earning Freshman All-America honors. Deifel’s success with the transfer portal continued as Ellis, a former Auburn player, led the team in home runs and RBI. Additionally, the 2023 season saw Arkansas reach its sixth straight NCAA Tournament, with standout performances from players like Chenise Delce and Reagan Johnson.

Deifel’s remarkable coaching has solidified her legacy as one of the most successful and influential figures in Arkansas softball history. She and her husband Joe are the parents of two sons, Trip and Walt. The family resides in Fayetteville.