Meet the Coach: Ashley Hullihan, Head Softball Coach

For Ashley Hullihan, Penn State Schuylkill Softball has never just been a team—it has been a family.

After spending the last eight seasons as an assistant coach under longtime head coach Darle Cresswell, Hullihan is stepping into a new role as the leader of the Nittany Lions softball program. As she begins her ninth season coaching at Penn State Schuylkill, she brings a deep understanding of the program's culture, a passion for player development, and a commitment to continuing the tradition of excellence built over the years.

Hullihan's journey in softball began at a young age when her parents first signed her up to play.

"I got started in softball when my parents signed me up when I was younger," Hullihan said. "They supported me through every stage of my career. My dad coached me early on and again toward the end of my high school career, and he played a huge role in shaping my love for the game."

That passion eventually led her to continue her playing career at Elizabethtown College, where she competed for four years before graduating in 2017. Shortly after graduation, she received a call that would change the course of her softball journey.

"Darle Cresswell approached me about coming to Penn State Schuylkill to assist with the program," Hullihan said. "It allowed me to continue with softball in a new capacity. He helped me grow as a coach and as a person, and I'm excited to transition into the head coaching role and continue building on the foundation he created."

Having spent nearly a decade working alongside Cresswell, Hullihan has seen firsthand what it takes to create a successful program. Now, she hopes to continue developing student-athletes both on and off the field while maintaining the values that have made Schuylkill Softball a respected program.

When evaluating players, Hullihan believes character and effort are just as important as talent.

"On the field, we value athletes who stay steady when things get tough and work hard for their teammates," she said. "Effort, awareness, and how you carry yourself matter just as much as talent."

That philosophy extends beyond the diamond.

"Off the field, we care about who you are as a person," Hullihan added. "We want student-athletes who handle their academics, communicate well, and represent the program with pride. Being a good teammate and someone who elevates the people around them is the standard."

For Hullihan, some of the most meaningful moments in softball haven't come from championships or statistics.

"It's hard to pick just one favorite memory because softball has given me so many meaningful experiences over the years," she said. "My favorite part of the sport has been the relationships I've built."

She credits softball with introducing her to some of her closest lifelong friends and says one of the most rewarding aspects of coaching is watching her players form those same bonds.

"Watching them build friendships, overcome challenges together, and grow as teammates is something I truly enjoy," Hullihan said. "Some of my favorite memories are seeing players develop confidence, reach goals they didn't think were possible, and then graduate prepared for the next chapter of their lives."

As she takes the reins of the program, Hullihan remains focused on fostering a culture where athletes can thrive both personally and competitively. Her years of experience with the program have given her a unique perspective on what makes Penn State Schuylkill special, and she is eager to help guide the next generation of Nittany Lions.

And for players looking to learn a little more about their new head coach, here's a fun fact: Hullihan is a proud dog mom to her two dogs, LJ and Hydee.

With nearly a decade of experience on the Schuylkill coaching staff, a passion for mentoring student-athletes, and a deep appreciation for the relationships that make sports meaningful, Ashley Hullihan is ready to lead Penn State Schuylkill Softball into its next chapter.