GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – Colorado Mesa Co-Directors of Athletics Kris Mort and Bryan Rooks announced the hiring of Erik Kozel as the head softball coach today (July 9). Kozel served as the interim head coach this past season for the Mavericks after being an assistant the previous two seasons.
 
"We are pleased to announce Eric Kozel as our next head softball coach.  Bryan and I are confident that the softball program is in a good place and are excited to continue the success and trajectory of the program with Coach Kozel at the helm," Mort said. "Erik's immediate success and familiarity with the current players, current recruiting needs, player development, and all aspects of the operation make him a natural selection to lead the Mavericks into the future."
 
Kozel, a Tucson, Ariz. native, led the program to a 45-11 mark and helped the team capture their fourth straight Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Championship. The Mavericks also made a trip to the NCAA Tournament for the fourth straight season.
 
He coached a pair of All-Americans this season in AnnMarie Torres and Kaila Jacobi.
 
"I am excited for the opportunity to continue working with such great athletes," Kozel said. "I want to thank President Foster, Kris Mort, and the search committee for having the faith in me to continue to lead the softball program."
 
Kozel played two seasons for the Maverick baseball program where he split time between the outfield and catcher after transferring from San Joaquin Delta College in California. He went on to spend three seasons playing independent professional baseball in the Pecos League and the Canadian-American (Can-Am) League.