"After a nationwide search, I am pleased to announce the hiring of Desiree Ybarra as our new assistant softball coach," announced head coach Luke Wagner. "The applicant pool was incredibly strong, but during the interview process Desiree separated herself as the candidate that, I believe, best fits our program’s goals.
Ybarra, who was hired over the summer, only recently arrived to Rhodes. The former Cal State Fullerton pitcher has played with the Venezuelan National Team and just got back from playing professionally in Italy.
"I am grateful to Coach Wagner and Rhodes for the opportunity to be part of this program and for taking a chance on me," commented Ybarra. "When talking to Coach Wagner I could see how much passion he had for the game and for this program and felt that Rhodes was the best fit for me. Im excited to be part of the staff and to help the program reach their goals."
A 2016 graduate, Ybarro had an impressive career at Fullerton. In her freshman year, she made 39 appearances with 30 starts, and finished 13-17 with a 4.66 ERA and 87 strikeouts in 184 2/3 inning. Her senior season, Ybarra was decorated as the 2016 Big West Conference Pitcher of the Year, All-Big West First Team, NFCA All-West Region First Team, Big West Pitcher of the Week (twice), and Buffalo Wild Wings Student-Athlete of the Week. She finished the season by recording a 1.82 ERA with a record of 16-7. She was also named second team All-Region her sophomore year.
"Desiree faced adversity her junior year of college with an injury, but her positive outlook on challenges that year, revealed her maturity and true character," mentioned Wagner. "She stated that although the injury kept her out of the circle, it didn’t prevent her from being an involved member of the team, pouring even more energy into the program. Desiree's perspectives were on target and genuine...truly embodying our softball team’s core values."
Ybarra arrived to campus as Rhodes' fall season is getting underway.
