Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Brings Experience to Oxford
Eri Yamada’s Experience Strengthens Ole Miss Softball
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Eri Yamada was announced by Ole Miss Head Coach Jamie Trachsel as the Director of Player Development.
Yamada captured Olympic gold medals at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China, and the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.
During the 2008 Olympics, Yamada put her talent on full display, hitting .344 for the tournament with two home runs and five RBIs. In the gold medal game, she came through in a big way, going 2-for-3 and hitting a solo home run off Cat Osterman to help Japan secure a historic victory.
She brings 24 years of experience in the game as both a player and coach. Her coaching career includes serving as an assistant coach for the Japanese national softball team, Tsukuba University, and the professional Japanese club Denso Bright Pegasus.
As a player, Yamada spent 20 years competing at the highest levels. That included 18 years with Hitachi Sundiva in Japan, along with time in the United States playing for the Chicago Bandits and the Dallas Charge in the National Pro Fastpitch league. She closed out her playing career with two seasons at Denso.
With Yamada’s background as both a champion athlete and respected coach, Ole Miss softball will benefit from her knowledge and leadership. The addition of Yamada gives the program another valuable presence to continue its growth and development.
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