By: ERAU Release

PRESCOTT, Ariz. – Embry-Riddle Athletics has announced the hiring of Holly Kathios as the Head Coach of the Eagle softball program. Kathios arrives in Prescott after spending the past four seasons at Barry University, where she most recently served as Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator.

Kathios brings a wealth of collegiate coaching experience, a proven track record in recruiting and player development, and a student-centered philosophy that emphasizes competitive excellence, academic achievement, and personal growth.

Kathios spent the last four seasons at NCAA Division II Barry University, where she progressed from Volunteer Assistant Coach to Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator before being promoted to Associate Head Coach in 2025. During her tenure, she played an integral role in all aspects of the program, including recruiting, offensive development, practice planning, academic support, travel operations, scouting, alumni engagement, and student-athlete mentorship.

"I am thrilled to be joining the Embry-Riddle Softball team staff." Kathios said. "This University and program have both a history of great success athletically and academically. I want to thank the athletic department, the search committee, and Athletic Director Jannelle Iaquinto for trusting me with this responsibility as head coach. I am very grateful for my time and experience at Barry University as it has prepared me for what I am about to embark upon next with Embry-Riddle. Go Eagles!"

Known for her energetic coaching style and strong communication skills, Kathios believes successful programs are built through meaningful relationships, accountability, and a shared commitment to growth. Her coaching philosophy focuses on developing the whole student-athlete by emphasizing effort, attitude, and dedication while creating an environment where every player feels empowered to succeed.

Kathios has also developed innovative systems to support student-athlete success beyond the field, including structured academic check-ins, leadership development initiatives, player feedback systems, and comprehensive recruiting strategies designed to identify student-athletes who excel academically, socially, and athletically. Her holistic approach aligns with Embry-Riddle's mission of preparing students for success in competition and in life.

Before joining Barry University, Kathios served as an assistant coach at Salve Regina University while also coaching with Rhode Island Thunder Gold, one of the premier travel softball organizations in the Northeast. She additionally worked as a private hitting and catching instructor, helping develop athletes at multiple competitive levels.

As a student-athlete at Salve Regina University, Kathios was a team captain, Second Team All-Conference selection, and Academic All-Conference honoree. She earned her bachelor's degree in Mathematics with minors in Education and Religious & Theological Studies before completing a Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Sports Psychology from California Southern University. She is an active member of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) and holds Level 1 certification through The Farm Hitting Program led by MLB consultant Joey Cunha.