KENT, Ohio - The Kent State Athletics Department and head softball coach Eric Oakley have mutually agreed to part ways.

"I want to thank Coach (Eric) Oakley for nine years supporting Kent State student-athletes," Director of Athletics Randale L. Richmond said. "We wish him the best of luck and nothing but success in his future endeavors. It is an exciting time for Kent State Softball with the opening of the Devine Diamond and I look forward to what is to come with this program."

In eight years as head coach, Oakley guided the Golden Flashes to 201 victories which included a regular season Mid-American Conference title in 2016 and the 2017 Mid-American Conference Tournament title and NCAA Tournament berth. Oakley was recognized as the 2016 MAC Coach of the Year. He was also on staff as assistant coach in 2015, helping the Flashes capture the Mid-American Conference regular season title as part of a 41-win campaign.

"For the past nine years I have been blessed to be part of the Kent State Softball Family, but after much reflection, I have decided it is time for me to move on from my role as Head Coach at Kent State University," Oakley said. "I leave with so many wonderful memories both on and off the field. I want to thank Randale, President Diacon and all of the administrators for their support  as well as the athletics department staff, and the families, fans and donors for their support throughout my nine years here at Kent State."

Oakley led Kent State to top-four finishes in conference in five of his seasons and helped Holly Speers become the first Kent State softball student-athlete to earn First-Team All-America honors. His student-athletes shined in the classroom as well, highlighted by Maria Cegledy earning Academic All-America honors in 2019 and 2020.

"Most importantly, I want to thank the young women throughout the years who entrusted me as their coach," Oakley added. "It has been an honor to watch your growth as students, athletes, and people."

A national search for the next head softball coach at Kent State will begin immediately.