Friends Athletics
Levi Convirs, Sports Information Director
WICHITA – Tony Segovia has stepped down as head softball coach at Friends University and accepted the same position at his alma mater, McPherson College.
It marks the end of a nice 14-year tenure at Friends for Segovia, who was selected as the KCAC Coach of the Year in seven of those seasons.
Segovia also led the Falcons to seven conference titles that included a school record 17 game winning streak in 2005.
“I am sad to see Tony go but certainly understand his decision,” Friends University Athletic Director Rob Ramseyer said.
“He has run a model program in many ways. His team has been successful on the field, in the classroom, and have represented Friends University well. Tony’s deep care for his student-athletes and Friends University will be missed.”
Segovia guided the Falcons to their first-ever appearance in the NAIA National Tournament in 2008 and five national tourney berths overall.
He ends his run with the Falcons holding an overall record of 454-212 overall, along with a 199-50 mark in the KCAC.
Statement from Tony Segovia:
“I want to thank Dr. Biff Green, Joe Zimmerman, and Robin Johnson for taking a chance on a young guy 14 years ago with no head coaching experience. They saw something in me that I never saw. I want to thank all my assistant coaches, but especially want to thank Jorge Martinez who was with me from the start. If it wasn’t for him we wouldn’t been able to accomplish all that we did. I will always be thankful for him.
“To everyone at Friends University: Coaches, trainers, administrators, staff, and professors. I will always cherish the relationships that we have.
“Finally, to all my players. You put in all the work to make this program successful, and I will always appreciate everyone that has been a part of this program in some capacity. I love every single one of you and thank you for everything you have done! The program will be in good hands, Dr. Ramseyer has been amazing with this transition and will put the student athlete’s best interests in mind when finding a replacement.
“Thank you, Friends University for a great 14 years, it’s a special place and will always be another home for me!”
The search for Segovia’s replacement will begin immediately.