The first season as head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks softball coach has been absolutely flawless for Ashley Chastain Woodard. In fact, she is already smashing records for the program.
The No.19 South Carolina softball team improved to 18-0 after securing a series win against No. 8 Duke. This is the best start for the program since 1976, when the team began the season 20-0.
Ashley Chastain Woodard is a former Gamecock student-athlete herself and was introduced as South Carolina's 11th softball coach on June 11, 2024. Before returning to South Carolina, Woodard was the head coach for the Charlotte 49ers for five seasons, leading them to a 154-96 overall record and two NCAA postseason berths. So, there is no question that she has been successful this early in her career as the Gamecocks head coach.
The Gamecocks' roster is full of talent with players such as senior infielder Ella Chancey, who transferred from Charlotte. Her presence on the field has earned her nicknames such as "Deuce" and "Double Deuce," reflecting her impact.
The early impact of a flawless season has moved South Carolina up the ranks in the Top-25 polls, creating a new culture of success and positioning for the Gamecocks as contenders in collegiate softball. For new coach Ashley Chastain Woodard, she has made Gamecock softball relevant again. GO COCKS!