July 10, 2009

NASHVILLE, TENN. - - Chris Kuhlmeyer has been named head coach of Belmont Softball, Belmont University Director of Athletics Mike Strickland announced Friday.

Kuhlmeyer spent the past three seasons as the top assistant coach at Wichita State University. Over that stretch, the Shockers won 91 games - including four against nationally-ranked opponents (Illinois State, Southern Illinois, Texas, Washington) - in the highly-competitive Missouri Valley Conference. Last season, the MVC sported four teams in the Top 80 of the final NCAA Softball Ratings Percentage Index (RPI).

Kuhlmeyer made a profound impact in recruiting and player development at Wichita State. For instance in 2007, Kuhlmeyer helped transform then freshman infielder Kara L'Huillier into one of the top fielding catchers in the Missouri Valley and the NCAA. L'Huillier, who had no previous experience behind the plate, made only one error in conference play and threw out 10 runners attempting to steal base.

"We are excited to have Chris join our staff," Strickland said. "We feel his background and experience give him all the tools he needs to be a success at Belmont. We are confident he will take our softball program to new heights."

Prior to joining the staff at Wichita State, Kuhlmeyer spent four seasons as an assistant coach at Samford University. While in Birmingham, Kuhlmeyer served as the recruiting coordinator, first base coach and primary hitting and catching instructor for the Bulldogs. During his stead, Samford registered its most successful stretch in school history, winning 27 or more games in three of his four campaigns. The Bulldogs were among the NCAA leaders in stolen bases per game in 2006.

Previously, Kuhlmeyer served two seasons as a volunteer assistant coach at Baylor University. At Baylor, he shaped his coaching instruction of catchers and infielders, as well as overseeing the program's booster club and field maintenance.

The Anacoco, La. native also spent the summer of 2000 as head coach of the Louisiana Lady Hawks of the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) 16-and-under league. He led the Lady Hawks to three tournament titles and top three finishes at both ASA and National Softball Association (NSA) state tournaments.

The 32-year-old began his coaching career at his alma mater, Louisiana State University. He spent the 2000 season as a volunteer assistant coach for the Bayou Bengals and three seasons as a student manager while earning his bachelor's degree in education with a concentration in sport studies.

Kuhlmeyer is a member of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and has served on the association's Internet Committee. He is married to the former Shelley Dykes of Baton Rouge, La. The couple has one daughter, Addison.

Kuhlmeyer succeeds Amy Tudor, who served as head coach the last three years.