POCATELLO, Idaho - After a program-elevating five-year tenure as Idaho State Softball head coach, Andrew Rich is departing Pocatello.
"I want to thank Coach Rich for his tremendous leadership and the lasting impact he has made on our softball program," said Director of Athletics Pauline Thiros. "Five years ago, we took a chance on a coach whose potential we believed in. He became the winningest coach in program history, led Idaho State to multiple conference championships, and helped deliver one of the most successful eras Bengal Softball has ever experienced. His impact extends far beyond the field through the culture and standards he established for our program. We are grateful for his commitment to Idaho State and wish Andrew and his family continued success in the future."
Idaho State softball reached new heights in 2025-26 as the Bengals won the Big Sky Conference tournament for the first time in program history and represented ISU and the Big Sky on the national stage at the NCAA tournament.
"Five years we moved to Pocatello with a vision of what this softball program could be and made everything happen. I am so thankful for my time in Pocatello and have created memories and friends that will last a lifetime. I can't thank Pauline enough for giving me the chance to lead the Idaho State Softball program. She is an amazing leader and the perfect person to be leading the Idaho State athletic department. Bengal Softball is in a great place and I hope someone can come in and continue to take it to even higher levels. My family and I will miss the Pocatello community and thank everyone for all the love and support they have shown over the years. Lastly, thank you to all of our players who have poured their hearts out for the Orange and Black and have helped us truly put Idaho State Softball on the national map!"
In his five years at Idaho State, Rich developed a culture of winning, bringing three regular-season championships to Pocatello and one Big Sky tournament championship.
Rich ends his tenure at ISU with a 144-119 (.545) record, the winningest coach in Idaho State program history, including the program's first-ever top-15 ranked win over #13 Texas Tech in the 2025 season and the program's first perfect game against Portland State, in 2025.
A national search for a new Head Coach will begin immediately; interested candidates can submit their applications here: Head Women's Softball Coach, Athletics (1176)
"We are excited to begin a national search for the next leader of our program," Thiros said. "Idaho State Softball has tremendous momentum, outstanding facilities, a passionate fan base, and alumni who are deeply invested in its continued success. Idaho State is making meaningful investments in the future of softball, and we are eager to identify a coach who will continue elevating Bengal Softball."
