BYU assistant softball coach Alvey to retire

PROVO, Utah (May 31, 2013) — BYU softball head coach Gordon Eakin announced Friday that longtime assistant coach Vaughn Alvey is retiring after 11 seasons on the Cougar staff.

During his time as pitching coach at BYU, Alvey coached two conference pitchers of the year while helping the Cougars to seven conference titles and nine-straight NCAA tournament appearances. He also served as assistant head coach.

“It has been a tremendous experience working at BYU and having the opportunity to associate with such great people,” said Alvey. “I couldn't have asked for a better situation working with such fine young women. I'm proud of what we accomplished together during my time at BYU.”

Before coming to BYU, Alvey coached for 17 seasons at Alta High School in Sandy, Utah, leading the Hawks to eight state softball titles, including three consecutive championships from 1999-2001. In 2000, Alta named its new softball field Vaughn T. Alvey Field.

As a player, Alvey pitched for the United States in the Pan-American games, bringing home silver medals in 1983 (Caracas, Venezuela), and in 1987 (Indianapolis, Ind.). He also represented the USA at the 1986 and 1993 Olympic Sports Festivals.

Alvey and his wife Kay have five children: Brett, Shad, Cody, Kirsten and Cassie as well as nine grandchildren.

In addition, Eakin announced that assistant coach Ianeta Le'i is also leaving BYU to pursue other interests. Le'i has been on the softball coaching staff for the past seven seasons assisting with on-field development, recruiting and game management.

Originally from Oahu, Hawai`i, Le’i played for BYU from 2003-06. She was a two-time All-American, four-time All-Mountain West Conference selection and two-time MWC Player of the Year. As a senior in 2006, Le'i set BYU single-season records for at bats (206), hits (85) and RBI (82). Her 82 RBI in a season is tied for 17th-most in NCAA history.

“I appreciate all the positive contributions both Vaughn and Neta have made to BYU and our softball program,” said Eakin. “They are valued friends and we wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.”