SAN JOSE, Calif. - San José State is proud to announce the hiring of Roberto Verdugo as the new pitching coach for the Spartan softball program, announced by head coach Tammy Lohmann on Thursday.
Verdugo joins SJSU following a successful tenure across multiple collegiate and club programs, bringing a proven record of leadership, athlete development, and championship experience.
"We’re excited to welcome Coach Bobby and his family to the Spartan Nation. He brings a wealth of experience, having coached at every level—from Division 1 to the community college level," said Lohmann. "Most recently at Arizona Western College, he helped lead the team to the NJCAA D1 Softball World Series and guided the pitching staff to its lowest regular season team ERA in 10 years. His ability to connect with players and develop pitching talent speaks for itself, and I’m confident he’ll make an immediate impact on our pitching staff and team."
Coaching Background:
Arizona Western College (Yuma, AZ) – Assistant Coach and Sports Coordinator
- Guided the Matadors’ pitching staff to a 10-year low team ERA of 3.35.
- Helped lead the team to the 2025 NJCAA Softball World Series and a Region I Championship.
- Oversaw hitting, fielding, scouting, and recruiting operations.
- Recruited 14 new athletes to the program.
Minot State University (ND) – Assistant Coach
- Led the Beavers to a team ERA improvement from 5.10 to 2.56.
- Coached multiple All-Conference players.
- Elevated the program to its highest academic standing in school history (3.23 GPA).
- Achieved the best defensive performance in six years.
Colorado Northwestern Community College – Assistant Coach
- Managed team budgets and facilities, including building a covered hitting facility.
- Improved the student-athlete GPA from 2.76 to 3.10.
- SOZO Softball (Tucson, AZ) – Founder and President
- Established a player development program supporting 40+ athletes and multiple competitive teams.
Ball State University – Coaching Staff
- Developed a comprehensive video analysis system to enhance player development.
- Contributed to defensive efficiency improvements across the program.
University of Arizona – Volunteer Manager (Alma Mater)
- Worked with the Wildcats softball staff, assisting in team operations and player support.
- Graduated from Arizona in 2019
Military Service:
- U.S. Navy Veteran – Machinery Repairman, Petty Officer 3rd Class
- Served aboard the USS Peleliu.
- Attributes his discipline, leadership, and attention to detail to his military background, which continues to define his coaching philosophy.
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