Wednesday evening, John A. Logan Softball made the announcement that legendary softball coach Kerri Blaylock has been hired as a volunteer assistant coach.  Former Logan pitcher Hayley Palm was also announced as an assistant coach hired by the program.

Blaylock is the all-time winningest coach in both Southern Illinois softball and Saluki Athletics history.  She stepped aside as SIU softball’s head coach on March 2, 2022 after 23 seasons at the helm due to health reasons.

Blaylock posted 18 30-win seasons and four 40-win seasons, including a program-best 47 wins in 2005.  The Herrin native compiled a record of 751-413-1 at SIU, collecting five MVC titles with eight NCAA Tournament appearances.

Blaylock joins the staff of Taylor Siefert, a former ace for Blaylock at SIU.  Siefert (née Orsburn), a Cobden native, attended SIU from 2010-2014.  She was a two-time first-team All-MVC selection (2011, 2012), and MVC ERA champ in 2014 (2.27 ERA), and an All-Mideast Region selection (2011).

“Kerri is a very special person to me. She has not only been my coach but a friend/mentor,” said Siefert.  “I am excited for our athletes to get the opportunity to learn from her and see the positivity she brings to this sport.

“It really is special to me to be able to have her helping the Vols,” Siefert continued. “I know I am going to learn from her and the athletes will enjoy having her around just as much as I do.”

Siefert is#3(t) in career at-bats at SIU (650), as well as #7 in career RBIs (137), #8 in career doubles (39), and #8 in career hits (197).  Her 15 doubles in 2013 is tied for the fifth best single-season effort.  Her 49 RBIs her freshman year in 2011 is the fifth best single-season total and the second-most by a freshman.

Siefert, Blaylock, and the rest of the Lady Vols begin the fall season on Saturday, September 7 at home against Mineral Area.  They will face SIU on Sunday, September 15 at SIU.