Waxahachie, TX
August 10, 2018
Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) looked no further than one of their own to find the third head softball coach in program history. Alumnus and former baseball player Steven “Watty” Watson has been named to lead the softball program at SAGU. Watson replaces former coach Sarah Harman who resigned in late July.
“During the process of reviewing and interviewing candidates, it was evident that Watty was an individual whose talents closely fit the roles defined by the institution for a SAGU head coach. He is an individual who knows and loves SAGU, has an impressive administrative background, and has demonstrated the ability to build relationships and serve people. I believe that Coach Watson will do an excellent job of building on the foundation laid by Coach Harman for the program”, stated Director of Athletics Jesse Godding.
Watson’s multifaceted background led him from Victorville, California to Waxahachie, Texas to play baseball and pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Education. Part of the attraction of the SAGU job for Watson is “to have the opportunity to invest in the lives of students and athletes in the manner I was invested in during my time at the institution.” Following graduation, Watson youth pastored in west Texas. The pastoral journey eventually led Watson to join the staff of Hope Fellowship in Frisco, Texas, a church that grew from 200 to 7000 plus during Watson’s tenure on the staff.
Watson describes himself as “thankful” for the opportunity at SAGU and state, “I am incredibly excited to be joining the athletic department at SAGU. SAGU holds a special place in my heart. I know firsthand the lifelong impact that Christ-centered friendships, campus culture, professors, and coaches can have on students. I look forward to mentoring and developing Lady Lions Softball athletes both on and off the field”. Looking to the future of the program, Watson’s goal is “to continue to develop a successful program that breeds athletes who are winners not just in the game, but in their spiritual, personal, and academic lives. I love softball, I love people, and I love that at SAGU that I will be able to focus on both”.
Watson began his coaching career while still a player at SAGU serving as coach/player in his senior season. Later, Watson became involved in softball due to the participation of his two oldest children. Watson’s leadership skills were recognized in the softball arena leading to multiple softball opportunities. Watson served as Frisco, Texas softball commissioner for seven years, founded the Texas Twist Girls Select Softball Organization , and coached the Texas Elite Softball Club 18U ’s for six years. During his involvement with club softball Watson promoted multiple players to all collegiate levels.
Watty, and his wife Julie have been married 25 years and have four children and one grandchild.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is a private, Christian university located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. The university was established in 1927, and now offers more than 70 associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees on campus or online. More information is available at www.sagu.edu
