COLLEGEVILLE, Pa. – Ursinus Director of Athletics Erin Stroble announced Tuesday the hiring of Taylor Gardner as the new Softball Coach. Gardner returns to Ursinus after spending two years as an assistant coach under previous head coach, Sam Campo, from 2018 to 2020

"We are excited to welcome back Coach Gardner to Ursinus College," Stroble said. "Her interview showcased her enthusiasm for softball and Ursinus College is unmatched and I believe she will be an excellent fit for our softball program who will build on the team's successes and positive team culture."

After her first stint at Ursinus, Gardner served as a graduate assistant coach at Smith College for the past two years to complete her master's degree in Exercise and Sports Studies. Gardner helped coach one All-NEWMAC selection at Smith following a canceled 2021 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She worked with all positions on the team and assisted in conducting team meetings along with recruiting.

During her time as an assistant coach on the Bears softball staff, Gardner played a key role in assisting Campo in all aspects on the team. The Bears returned to the Centennial Conference Tournament for the first time since 2012 in the 2019 season and Gardner helped coach six All-Centennial selections that season. Gardner served as the interim head coach during the fall of 2019 while Campo was on maternity leave and helped prepare the team for their fall play dates. Gardner primarily worked with the Bears infielders in her two seasons as an assistant coach.

 "I am extremely excited and honored to be back as a Bear", Gardner said. "This program has seen impressive growth in the last decade, and I cannot wait to build upon it.  I am looking forward to seeing this program continue to reach new heights on and off the field."

Before beginning her coaching career, Gardner played four seasons at Middlebury College and served as a team captain during her junior and senior seasons. Gardner participated in the NCAA Convention Immersion Program in January of 2017 which allowed student-athletes to comment and contribute as to ways NCAA could be more inclusive throughout Division III.

Gardner is a native of Carlsbad, California and earned a bachelor's degree in history from Middlebury in the Spring of 2018.