Bodeen retires as softball coach
Yakima, Wash. — Yakima Valley College has announced that Head Softball Coach Chuck Bodeen will be retiring from coaching at the conclusion of the 2021 softball season.
“We are very thankful and appreciative for all of Chuck’s efforts he put into running the softball program at YVC. He was instrumental in providing a consistency to the program, but more importantly impacted the lives of all of his players during his time here,” said Director of Athletics Ray Funk. “We wish Chuck nothing but the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
Hired in 2005 by the college, Bodeen concludes his career as the longest-tenured softball coach in school history — this spring will mark his 16th season at the helm of the Yaks. During his time at YVC to date, Bodeen has seen 27 of his players move on to 4-year programs, while 32 players have received NWAC All-East Region team honors and another 18 players have been named to the NWAC All-Academic team. Prior to YVC, Bodeen coached baseball for a combined ten years at Selah and Eisenhower High Schools and was the Athletic Director at Eisenhower High School.
“I have been blessed to coach the Yaks for 16 years. When I began this job, I thought I might coach into my early 60s — next month I turn 70,” said Bodeen. “Coaching, teaching and mentoring these young ladies in the sport of softball and life has been special for me. I will really miss these special student-athletes — they will be world changers!”
The search for a replacement will begin immediately and the position has been posted on the YVC Human Resources website.
Press Release Contacts:
Dustin Wunderlich / 509.574.6870 / dwunderlich@yvcc.edu
Stefanie Menard / 509.574.4646 / smenard@yvcc.edu