In a heartfelt return to her alma mater, Sydney Romero has been appointed as the Associate Head Coach of the University of Oklahoma softball program, marking a significant homecoming for the former Sooner standout.
Romero’s illustrious playing career at Oklahoma from 2016 to 2019 was marked by exceptional achievements. As a two-time NFCA All-American and four-time All-Big 12 selection, she played a pivotal role in securing national championships in 2016 and 2017. Her senior year was particularly noteworthy, leading the Big 12 in batting average (.431), home runs (17), RBIs (51), and total bases (144), culminating in her recognition as the 2019 Big 12 Player of the Year.ย
Following her collegiate success, Romero transitioned into coaching, beginning as a graduate assistant at Oklahoma. During her tenure, she contributed to the team’s back-to-back national titles in 2021 and 2022. She then expanded her coaching repertoire with assistant coaching roles at Duke University and the University of Oregon. At Duke, she served as the hitting and infield coach, helping the team achieve a 48-12 record and their first NCAA Super Regional appearance. At Oregon, she was instrumental in guiding the Ducks to their first Women’s College World Series appearance since 2018, finishing the season with a 54-10 record.
Romero’s return to Oklahoma reunites her with head coach Patty Gasso, under whom she achieved significant success as a player. Gasso, who has led the Sooners to multiple national championships, expressed enthusiasm about Romero’s return, highlighting her deep understanding of the program’s culture and her commitment to excellence.
In addition to her coaching accomplishments, Romero has maintained an active presence in professional softball. She was the third overall pick in the 2019 National Pro Fastpitch Draft by the USSSA Pride and has competed with Athletes Unlimited since 2020.ย
Romero’s appointment as Associate Head Coach is not only a testament to her impressive resume but also a strategic move for the Sooners as they continue to build upon their storied legacy. Her blend of playing excellence, coaching experience, and familiarity with the program positions her to make an immediate and lasting impact on the team’s future success.
