Dickinson State University Women's Softball

Kristen Fleury enters her 16th season as head softball coach at Dickinson State University, where she has built one of the most successful and respected programs in the NAIA. Since taking over the program in 2009, Fleury has guided the Blue Hawks to 473 victories, eight conference tournament championships, and ten NAIA National Tournament appearances. A former All-Conference third baseman for the Blue Hawks, Fleury returned to her alma mater with a clear vision for long-term success. Under her leadership, Dickinson State has become a perennial contender in the North Star Athletic Association and beyond. In 2015, she was named the NDAPSSA Female Team Coach of the Year after leading DSU to a conference title, an NAIA Opening Round championship, and the program’s first appearance in the NAIA World Series. Fleury’s teams are defined by their resilience and ability to peak in postseason play. In 2024, the Blue Hawks won the conference tournament as the No. 3 seed and returned to the NAIA Opening Round. Her 2025 squad continued that momentum, finishing 29–16 overall and second in the NSAA standings. She has earned multiple Conference Coach of the Year honors and continues to lead a program that excels both athletically and academically. Her student-athletes regularly earn all-conference, all-region, and NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition. In addition to her coaching role, Fleury serves as Associate Athletic Director at Dickinson State. She holds a master's degree in Human Performance and Physical Education with a coaching emphasis from Adams State University. A native of San Jose, California, Fleury is deeply committed to developing players who succeed in competition, the classroom, and life after athletics. Year-by-Year Head Coaching Record – Dickinson State Softball Season Conf. Record Overall Record Conference Finish Postseason 2025 14–6 29–16 2nd – 2024 15–9 26–24 3rd / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round 2023 17–9 26–24 3rd – 2022 10–10 20–26 4th – 2021 19–8 34–15 3rd / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round 2020 N/A 12–5 COVID-shortened – 2019 15–13 27–24 4th – 2018 16–10 30–21 3rd / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round 2017 17–9 22–24 3rd – 2016 19–3 46–12 1st / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round 2015 17–3 44–13 2nd / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round Champions / NAIA World Series 2014 20–1 39–15 1st / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round 2013 – 25–16 1st / Tournament Champions NAIA Opening Round 2012 10–5 28–23 A.I.I. – 2011 16–2 31–13 1st – DAC – 2010 21–3 34–13 1st – DAC NAIA National Tournament Total 237–96 471–285 – 10 NAIA Appearances Career Record: 473–284 Conference Tournament Championships: 8 NAIA National Tournament Appearances: 10 NAIA World Series Appearances: 1 (2015)

Todd Johns is in his eighth season as an assistant coach with the Dickinson State University softball program. With more than 20 years of coaching experience at the high school, collegiate, and ASA Gold levels, Johns plays a pivotal role in the development of the Blue Hawk offense and outfield defense. A native of Visalia, California, Johns joined the DSU coaching staff in 2018 and has been instrumental in the program’s sustained success, contributing to multiple conference tournament championships and NAIA National Tournament appearances during his tenure. Known for his player-first approach and deep knowledge of the game, he brings leadership, consistency, and a strong coaching presence to the field every day. Prior to his time at Dickinson State, Johns served 24 years in law enforcement, working in both California and North Dakota before retiring from public service. His background in leadership and discipline has seamlessly translated to the softball field, where he is widely respected for his ability to mentor student-athletes and foster a competitive team culture. Johns and his wife, Chris, moved to Dickinson in 2014 to be closer to their daughters, both proud graduates of Dickinson State. Their daughter Nicole was a member of the Blue Hawk softball team, while their daughter Megan competed for the DSU women’s golf program.

Bryant Merry is in his third season as an assistant coach with the Dickinson State University softball program. Since joining the Blue Hawks in 2024, Merry has brought a strong work ethic, broad experience, and a student-athlete-centered approach to the coaching staff. In his role, Merry assists in all facets of the program, with a focus on player development and day-to-day operations. His impact extends beyond the field through his additional responsibilities as the Athletic Groundskeeper and Building Maintenance Coordinator for the Sanford Sports Complex and Biesiot Activities Center. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence help ensure that Blue Hawk student-athletes train and compete in a first-class environment. Coach Merry’s versatility, dedication, and pride in the program make him a valued and trusted member of the Blue Hawk coaching staff.

Alexa Kappel is in her second season as a graduate assistant coach with the Dickinson State University softball program, following a successful playing career with the Blue Hawks. A dependable two-way contributor during her time at DSU, Kappel pitched and played infield, earning recognition for her consistency and competitive spirit. During the 2023–24 season, she delivered several key performances in the circle, including a five-inning shutout and multiple effective relief appearances. Her strong work ethic and team-first mentality made her a valued member of the roster throughout her collegiate career. Now transitioning into coaching, Kappel works closely with the Blue Hawk pitching staff and contributes to infield development, practice planning, and game-day operations. Her recent experience as a player and deep familiarity with the program provide a relatable and supportive presence for current student-athletes. Kappel is currently pursuing her graduate degree at Dickinson State University.

Dallis Mitchell is in her second season as a graduate assistant with the Dickinson State University softball program, bringing a fresh perspective and strong leadership following a successful four-year playing career with the Blue Hawks. A native of Phoenix, Arizona, Mitchell was a standout two-way player at DSU, making key contributions as both a pitcher and first baseman. She earned North Star Athletic Association Pitcher of the Week honors during her senior season and played a vital role in leading the Blue Hawks to a conference tournament championship and NAIA Opening Round appearance. Known for her competitive presence in the circle and reliable production at the plate, Mitchell was a respected leader on and off the field. In her coaching role, Mitchell focuses on pitching development, infield instruction, and team operations. Her recent playing experience and understanding of the program’s culture provide a valuable connection between the coaching staff and current student-athletes. Beyond her responsibilities on the field, Mitchell plays an active role in the community, helping organize the Give Back Softball Camp—an annual youth clinic supporting local charitable efforts. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree at Dickinson State University.