Making a smooth transition from player to coach, Melissa Garvey is now entering her third season as an assistant coach with the UIC softball program. The former Flames first baseman has been an integral part of the program for over six years, claiming three conference titles (1999, 2000, 2001) as a player and one as an assistant coach (2002) during her time on UIC's campus. As a coach, Garvey helped guide UIC to its fifth consecutive NCAA Regional appearance in 2002 while the Flames also captured the Horizon League regular-season and tournament titles en route to their 10th-straight 40-plus win season. Last season, she helped groom a large crop of newcomers that would go on to place third in conference. In her playing days, Garvey was a part of some of UIC's most successful teams as the Flames tallied 165 victories in her three years, including an NCAA record-tying 67 wins in 1999. UIC also advanced to the NCAA Regionals in each year she played. Garvey's best season came in 2001 as led UIC its fourth-straight NCAA Regional appearance, capping her senior campaign with an amazing final three weeks. During the span, the Frankfort, Ill., native hit .302 with four home runs, including a solo blast versus #7 Alabama in regionals, and 17 RBI. Besides playing softball, Garvey was also a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee while at UIC. Before coming to UIC, Garvey attended conference foe Butler University where she played first base. At Butler, Garvey was named to the Midwestern Collegiate Conference All-Newcomer team and All-Conference team. Garvey assists with all UIC softball players, but she mainly works with the hitters. She has extensive knowledge of the game and has worked closely with many great softball coaches in camps. Garvey is single and currently resides in Chicago, Ill. |
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