Jexx Varner Joins Softball Staff

KENT, Ohio - The Kent State softball team recently announced the addition of Jexx Varner as an assistant coach for the 2010-11 season. With the Golden Flashes’ fall schedule just around the corner, Varner looks to prepare KSU for a sixth straight Mid-American Conference East Division title.

"Jexx fit all the needs that we had for this position," Head Coach Karen Linder said. "He’s worked with infielders and outfielders and has a consistent hitting philosophy."

Varner most recently comes from Ashland University, where he helped the Eagles to a 36-13 record and a 2010 Division II NCAA Tournament appearance. Ashland set 16 team records by the end of the season and placed seven players on the all-conference team.

Also bringing Division I experience to KSU, Varner served as an assistant coach at Robert Morris for two seasons. In 2008, the Colonials went 30-20, the program’s first 30-win season since 1997.

"This is a program that’s on the way up," Varner said of joining the Golden Flashes. "And it’s a great opportunity for my career advancement. Being able to coach with Craig Coleman (Robert Morris), Sheila Gulas (Ashland) and now Coach Linder...it’s a fantastic group to be a part of and learn from."

Varner began his time at RMU as the baseball club coach from 2004-07. He also coached baseball at the high school level in Fort Collins, Colo. and has held numerous administrative duties with Triple Crown Sports over the past decade.

"He has had an impact with every program he’s been at," Linder said. "And both of his previous head coaches had lots of positive things to say about him. With having some baseball in his background, he will give a new perspective to our players and I look forward to working with him."

Kent State begins its fall season Saturday, Sept. 18 at Ashland. The 2011 regular season is set to begin Feb. 12-13 at the Elon Invitational in Elon, N.C.