BLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech softball head coach Pete D'Amour announced Monday that Mike Lewis will be joining his staff as an assistant coach.
"There certainly wasn't a lack of interest in this position, quite the contrary," D'Amour said. "The level of interest from so many qualified coaches around the country was hopefully a testament to where we think the program is headed.
"The hiring process ultimately cumulated down to two specific traits. First, we wanted someone who was approachable, had integrity, and would not only respect everyone within and outside of the program, but would also earn the respect of everyone that has ties to Virginia Tech softball.
"The second trait we looked for was the ability of someone that could challenge our hitters in scrimmages from a pitching standpoint and also have the ability to throw batting practice. After speaking with a few players on the team, they agreed with that assessment."
Lewis joins the Hokies after serving as a volunteer assistant coach for Minnesota for the past two seasons and graduate manager during the 2018 season. As part of the 2019 Golden Gophers staff, Lewis helped coach the team to its first Women's College World Series.
Prior to Minnesota, Lewis was on the Missouri-Kansas City staff for three years, including two years as assistant coach where he managed the pitching staff and infield.
"Mike clearly stood out with both of those traits in mind and he'll bring much more to the program," D'Amour said. "I've seen Mike completely stifle Super Regional offenses consistently in scrimmages then throw 'feel good' BP the next day. Having that option alone should give us the opportunity to improve as an offense right away."
In his own fastpitch career, Lewis played for Team USA's men's fastpitch team. In 2012, he was a member of the junior national team that placed fifth at the World Championships in Argentina. He currently plays and serves as the general manager for the Fargo Kegel Black Knights softball club.
"From a character standpoint, you'd be hard pressed to find a nicer person that Mike," D'Amour said. "You can't find someone that will say a bad word about him.
"Mike has been associated with NCAA World Series programs, has been an assistant coach, director of ops, volunteer, camp director, knows the recruiting landscape and brings to Tech the experience of playing in multiple International Softball Congress World Tournaments.
"I'm thankful Mike will be joining us in Blacksburg."
Give Coach Lewis a follow on Twitter @michaellew10.