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Louisiana Softball introduces Alyson Habetz
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LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – Louisiana's favorite daughter has come home.
Friday's introductory press conference for new Louisiana Softball Head Coach Alyson Habetz was full of laughter, tears, and smiles. There were numerous memorable moments throughout, starting with a look behind the how Louisiana Athletics Director Dr. Bryan Maggard was able to sway Coach Habetz back home to Cajun country.
"It was a 10 a.m. meeting at PJ's Coffee in Scott, Louisiana. After a bit of small talk and catching up, the conversation started to get into the coaching vacancy. We sat in PJ's coffee for five hours." Maggard said.
Habetz responded to Maggard's determination to strike a deal saying, "Your persistence, your patience, and your shrewd recruiting strategy is quite impressive. I mean, coming to see mom, that was well-played.".
One essential part of Habetz life is family. Over a dozen members of the Habetz family were in attendance during Friday's introduction including her mother, Deanna. Coach Habetz would retire in 2023 from her role at The University of Alabama to return to Crowley and care for her. Dr. Maggard honored Momma D by naming her an honorary head coach and presenting her with a custom jersey.
"Oh, that means everything. Because mom's the reason i retired. You know me, mama college. So, and the whole point of all this, it was it was a hard no originally, because I need to take care of mom. That's why I came home. But the realization that i can take care of her and do something i love to do and she can be a part of it is a positive. I never even thought about that." Habetz said.
Make no mistake about it, behind that infectious smile is a leader who is looking to continue a winning culture with her former team.
When addressing fans about the consistency of the softball program Habetz said, "I want to win. I mean, make no mistake about that. I'm competitive. I want to win. I want to win the natty. That's the expectation every year. So, fans just know going in. That's my expectation. Okay. Without a doubt."