University of Sioux Falls Women's Softball

The University of Sioux Falls has announced the hiring of Tommy Downs as head coach of Cougar Softball in June 2025, bringing a proven track record of transforming programs and developing championship-caliber teams. Downs arrives at USF fresh off a remarkable three-year tenure at Dakota Wesleyan University, where he engineered one of the most dramatic turnarounds in recent GPAC history. Under his leadership, the Tigers achieved their best season in program history with 34 wins in 2025 and earned their first conference playoff berth in a decade. During his time at Dakota Wesleyan, Downs' impact was immediate and comprehensive. His teams didn't just win games – they rewrote the record books, shattering 32 school records across offensive categories including hits (505), runs (301), RBIs (249), home runs (50), triples (21), doubles (102), stolen bases (98), and team batting average (.346). The Tigers' pitching staff also set a new ERA record of 3.15. Perhaps most impressively, his student-athletes excelled academically, with the team ranking 20th nationally in GPA and first in the GPAC conference with a collective 3.7 GPA. Before revitalizing Dakota Wesleyan, Downs orchestrated an equally impressive transformation at Embry-Riddle University in Prescott, Arizona. In his tenure from 2020-2022, he guided the Eagles to a remarkable 42-8 record while earning the program's first-ever national ranking, peaking at No. 23 in the NAIA Softball Poll. His teams also captured a conference championship and defeated seven of nine top-25 opponents they faced. His Eagles set new standards for excellence, establishing school records with a dominant 1.16 team ERA and .374 team batting average. The program achieved additional milestones including a perfect game, eight shutouts, three no-hitters (all school records), and ranked 7th nationally in triples and batting average against. Downs brings more than 20 years of coaching experience across multiple levels, from high school and club programs to collegiate competition. As a former professional hitting instructor, he has mentored student-athletes from NCAA Division I programs through NAIA and junior college levels, developing a reputation as both a skilled tactician and mentor. Adding to his credibility, Downs had a successful 20-season amateur baseball career that included a tryout with the Kansas City Royals organization and competition in four state championship games and two super regionals – experience that provides him with a deep understanding of high-stakes competition from a player's perspective.

Branson enters her first season with USF, bringing a wealth of playing and coaching experience across NCAA Division I and II levels, as well as professional international competition.  Branson began her collegiate career at the University of Kentucky in 2018, where she contributed as an infielder and helped the Wildcats reach both an NCAA Regional and Super Regional in 2019. She then transferred to Miami University in 2020, where she was part of three Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship teams and made two NCAA Regional appearances. While at Miami, she earned her bachelor's degree in Sports Leadership and Management with a minor in Business.  Branson capped her playing career with a graduate year at Thomas More University in 2022, where she completed her master's degree in Organizational Mangement & Ethical Leadership while competing as an infielder.  Following her decorated playing career, Branson transitioned into coaching with a variety of roles that have developed her as both a teacher and leader of the game. She served as an assistant coach at Thomas More University from 2023 to 2024 before taking her knowledge overseas as a player/coach in Germany in the summer of 2024.  In the fall of 2024, Branson joined the staff at West Virginia State University as an assistant coach and also served as an assistant coach for the Wausau Ignite of the Northwoods League in the summer of 2025, where she focused on player development and competitive training.  Known for her expertise in player evaluation, game strategy, and performance development, Branson has built a reputation for fostering positive team culture and preparing athletes for success on and off the field.