JACKSONVILLE – Julie Boland has been announced as the new head coach for Jax State softball, propelling the long-time assistant to the lead role after the retirement of Hall of Fame coach Jana McGinnis.
 
Boland embodies the standard and family culture that is Gamecock softball. As a former player and then 23-year assistant, Boland was at McGinnis' side in some capacity for 28 of her 31 seasons and saw nearly 1,000 wins.
 
"We are excited that Julie Boland will lead our softball team and continue to build upon the rich history and tradition of our program," said Director of Athletics, Greg Seitz. "Julie has been a loyal assistant coach for more than 20 years and is a former player who embodies and understands the commitment and expectations of Gamecock softball."
 
In her two prior decades on the bench for Jax State, Boland helped guide the Gamecocks to 15 conference championships and eight appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
 
Boland's commitment to Jax State dates back to her playing days when the Lewisville, Texas, native, became a four-time all-conference selection at shortstop in the TAAC/Atlantic Sun from 1997-2000. The Gamecock slugger who finished her career with the program's second-most hits at 198, has since mentored eight Gamecocks who went on to eclipse her mark since 2005. Boland's collegiate marks still rank 20th in program history with 100 RBI, 14th with 26 stolen bases and eighth in runs scored at 142.
 
"My heart swells with gratitude and pride to take this position and continue the legacy that coach McGinnis has built," said Boland. "I want to thank Coach McGinnis for believing in me as a player, and her continued belief and mentorship as a coach and friend. I would also like to thank President Killingsworth and Greg Seitz for their support and vision for our future in Conference USA. We will continue to strive for excellence both on and off the field."
 
During her time on staff, Boland ran team operations, recruiting and led hitters and middle infielders at various times. She becomes only the third head coach to lead Gamecock softball behind McGinnis (1994-2024) and Amy Hardeman (1988-1993).
 
Jax State gets fall action underway next month with its annual Tera Ross Memorial Tournament on September 28 at Choccolocco Park in Oxford.