WAUKESHA, Wis. -- Carroll University is proud to announce Ericka Hess as the Pioneers' Head Softball Coach, becoming the program's fifth head coach this century. She replaces the program's longest-tenured and winningest head coach, Amy Gradecki, who chose to retire at the conclusion of the 2025 season.

"We're thrilled about the hire of Coach Hess. She's a passionate coach who has a strong foundation of the game," Carroll Athletic Director Michael Schulist said. "I look forward to working with Coach Hess to develop a strong and successful Carroll softball program both on and off the field."

Hess comes to Carroll from Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Mich., where she served as an assistant coach for the last three years. While at Hillsdale, Hess was in charge of coordinating team logistics, including travel, lodging, and meals, while ensuring smooth and efficient operations at the NCAA Division-II level. She also developed and implemented practice plans with a focus on outfield and slapper development, while contributing to individual player growth and overall team performance. In addition to that, Hess planned and executed youth and recruiting camp events for Hillsdale, while working instructional camps nationwide to build relationships and promote the program. While at Hillsdale, Hess also served as the school's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Assistant Coordinator, where she helped organize and facilitate campus SAAC meetings and encouraging collaboration and leadership among student-athletes.

"I'm honored to lead the Carroll University softball program, and grateful to Athletic Director Mike Schulist and the entire Pioneer community for this opportunity. We will compete with purpose, passion, and discipline, driven by hard work," Hess said. "My mission is to grow confident young women who will not only win on the field but also lead in their communities. I look forward to building a championship culture that reflects the values of Carroll University and sets a standard of excellence both in softball and in life."

Prior to her time at Hillsdale, Hess served as Head Varsity Coach for three years at her alma mater of Iroquios High School in Erie, Pa. In what served as her first Head Coaching position, Hess provided individualized softball instruction, focusing on hitting, fielding, and conditioning of student-athletes of all ages and skill levels. She also collaborated with athletes to identify specific goals and areas for improvement and development, while utilizing advanced technology to analyze swing data. Hess also spent three years as a softball instructor for Erie Elite Athletic Academy.

A 2019 graduate of Geneva College, Hess earned her Bachelors degree in both Psychology and Human Services. While at Geneva, she was a four-year member of the Golden Tornadoes' softball team, where she compiled a career batting average of .271. In 106 games, including 99 starts, Hess also recorded 62 hits, 20 RBI, six stolen bases, and 29 runs scored, while primarily playing second base and outfield. While at Geneva, she was Vice President of SAAC.

A native of Erie, Pa., Hess served as a ball girl for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 2018-21.