Courtesy of MCLA Sports Information

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts' (MCLA) Athletic Director Scott Nichols has announced that Jamie Trudeau is the new head softball coach for the Trailblazers, effective immediately.  She replaces Mike Ameen, who led the program for the past three seasons.

"We are very excited to have someone with Jamie's background and experience as the new head softball coach at MCLA," Nichols said. "She is an excellent teacher of the game and has raised the level of each of her players during all of her previous coaching positions.  We are very fortunate to have her as a part of our coaching staff."

Trudeau was the assistant coach at Division I Siena College in Albany, N.Y., for the past two seasons, primarily working as the hitting instructor and infield coach.  She also worked as an instructor for the All Stars Baseball/Softball Academy in Latham, N.Y.

Trudeau was at the helm at Wells College in Aurora, N.Y., for three seasons.  While at Wells, she led the program to its highest win total in school history. The student-athletes in her program also were recognized for their academic success. 

She also earned experience at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, N.Y., The University of South Dakota in Vermillion, S.D., and Plattsburgh State University in Plattsburgh, N.Y. 

Trudeau received her bachelor's degree in physical education from Chowan College in Murfreesboro, N.C., in 2003 before earning a master's degree in arts, health, physical education and recreation, with an emphasis on athletic administration from the University of South Dakota.

"I am excited about becoming the MCLA Head Softball Coach.  With the dedication and commitment  the college and  athletic department have shown towards its student athletes, it is a great opportunity to become part of a dynamic softball program with a loyal history." Trudeau said in regards to taking over.

Trudeau will inherit a program that returns a pair of All-Conference players – Rachel Quackenbush '16 and Michaela DiNicola '15.  The Trailblazers were 13-17 last season, and finished second in the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) regular season standings. They also were conference finalists in 2013.   

MCLA will begin its 2014 season in March in Clermont, Fla., at the PFX Spring Games.