SAINT PETER, Minn. – Gustavus Adolphus College head softball coach Coley Ries Welter has announced her resignation after five seasons leading the program. A 2017 graduate of Minnesota State University-Mankato and former All-American pitcher, Ries Welter will return to her alma mater to serve as an assistant coach.

"On behalf of the entire athletic department, we want to thank Coley for her dedication, leadership, and the positive culture she has cultivated within the Gustie softball program," said Athletic Director Tom Brown. "She has positioned the team for long-term success, and we wish her all the best as she returns to the Mavericks."

Ries Welter took the reins of the Gustie softball program in 2020, and immediately began building a strong foundation. She led the team to a 17-17 overall record in her first season, followed by steady improvement each year. In 2023, Gustavus enjoyed one of its most memorable seasons in recent history, finishing 24-18 overall and 14-8 in the MIAC—good for fourth place. That season included a signature win over nationally-ranked Saint Benedict, the program's first-ever home playoff game, and its first MIAC playoff victory since 2015. Four players earned All-Conference honors, including the first Rawlings Gold Glove Award recipient in program history.

The momentum continued into 2024, with the Gusties posting a 16-6 MIAC record—their best conference mark since 2016—and tying for fourth place. They earned wins against every league opponent, including a sweep of No. 10-ranked Bethel, and splits with both MIAC champions Saint Mary's and Saint Benedict. The team's pitching staff finished the regular season with the conference's best ERA, while four more players garnered All-Conference recognition.

Ries Welter concludes her tenure at Gustavus with an overall record of 98-97.

"I want to thank the entire Gustavus community, and especially Tom Brown, for welcoming me with open arms and supporting me—not only as a young first-time head coach, but also as a first-time mom," said Ries Welter. "Gustavus is special because of its people, and I'm so proud to have been a part of this community.

"The hardest part of leaving is saying goodbye to this team. These young women have the potential to achieve incredible things on the field—and even more off it. I love them like family and will always be their biggest fan. I can't thank them enough for helping shape Gustavus softball into what it is today."

A national search for the next head coach of Gustavus softball will begin immediately.