Courtesy: Hillsdale Athletic Department

Taylor Segorski joined the Hillsdale softball team as assistant coach for the 2025-2026 season. 

Hillsdale is Segorski’s third collegiate coaching position. She previously coached for Davenport University and Albion College. 

“I’m looking forward to her experience at other championship programs, bringing that, and just to see her grow with the team,” head softball coach Kyle Gross said. “It’s rewarding to see a coach under you find their niche and hit their stride.” 

Segorski is replacing Ericka Hess, the previous assistant coach. Hess coached at Hillsdale for three years before leaving to become the head coach at Carroll University, according to the Carroll University Athletics website. 

“I’m looking forward to coming in and getting to know the girls, getting integrated into the team and contributing to the culture,” Segorski said. “But I’m also looking forward to playing some high-level softball. We have a really strong both fall and then early spring schedule that I’m excited to dive into and see where we’re at.”

Segorski played for Escanaba High School, a varsity team in the Upper Peninsula. She played collegiate softball at Grand Valley State University, where her team made two Division II College World Series.

“I wanted to be at a Division II school,” Segorski said. “I really love DII. I think that it’s kind of the purest form of high level sport right now. And obviously, coming up through Grand Valley’s program, I was familiar with Hillsdale, I was familiar with their success, and I wanted to be a part of a program that seemed like they were doing things the right way.” 

Segorski played catcher and outfield. She hopes to build on previous seasons of success while making sure the team feels confident. 

“We’ve talked a lot about our standards, making sure that they feel good stepping out onto the field and have a good grasp of what we’re there to accomplish, and I think that the checklist of goals will accomplish themselves along the way there,” Segorski said. 

The softball team has welcomed Segorski and are excited about her addition to the team, according to senior Anna Chellman. 

“Coach Segorski has definitely made a great first impression,” Chellman said. “Hearing her perspective on the game of softball makes me confident that she’ll be a great addition to this team, and so far all of us have liked her a lot and welcomed her into our program.” 

Chellman plays third base and said she is excited to go on the team trips to Florida and Texas.

“Hillsdale softball brings me so much joy and fulfillment,” Chellman said. “My best friends are on this team, and they make every day such a blessing. I love being able to share my experiences with these people, and I have so many friends here who care about me and who I care for. It’s definitely the people, for sure.” 

The softball team has a larger roster and a larger pitching staff this year, according to Gross. 

“I’m actually looking forward to how this new staff approach works, versus just a number one and a number two pitcher,” Gross said. 

The softball team will play nine games in their non-championship season this fall. The regular season will begin in January after Christmas break. 

“We don’t talk a whole lot about the wins and losses,” Gross said. “Those are kind of there. You’re starting the season wanting to win a GMAC championship, go postseason, those kinds of things, but really just want to see this team come together by the end of the season and be playing our best.”