WICHITA, Kan. - Sydney McKinney, Wichita State softball's most decorated athlete in school history, has officially been named an assistant coach for the program, as announced by head coach
Kristi Bredbenner Wednesday morning.
A three-time All-American and two-time American Conference Player of the Year, McKinney returns to the dugout on a full-time basis after spending the past season as a graduate assistant on staff. The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 Athletes Unlimited Collegiate Softball Draft will oversee the defense, while also serving as the recruiting coordinator.
"Sydney helped build one of the greatest eras in Wichita State Softball as a player, and now she'll help build the next one as a coach," Bredbenner said. "She represents everything our program stands for—competitive excellence, toughness, humility and an unwavering commitment to others. I couldn't be more excited to have her leading our defense and helping shape the future of our program."
McKinney spent two seasons (2024-25) on staff at Marshall as an assistant coach, primarily working with the Thundering Herd hitters.
As a player, McKinney - one of the most accomplished athletes statistically in college softball history - was a career .451 hitter for the Shockers, with 378 hits, 48 doubles, 28 home runs, and a .647 slugging percentage. She is Wichita State's all-time leader in batting average, hits, runs scored, and total bases. Her 378 hits rank fifth all-time in NCAA DI history. Her 34-game hitting streak was the sixth-longest in NCAA Softball history.Â
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"I'm incredibly proud and grateful for the opportunity to coach at the program that shaped who I am today," McKinney said. "Wichita State became home the moment I stepped on campus seven years ago, and it still feels that way today. I'm especially honored to coach at a university that continues to invest in and elevate women's sports. That commitment has opened doors for athletes such as myself, and it's a privilege to help carry that forward as I take on this new role. Being able to work alongside two women who have had such a profound impact on my life is a dream come true. I'm excited to share my knowledge with current and future Shockers as we compete for many championships to come. Go Shocks!"
McKinney also became the first player in NCAA history to lead the nation in both batting average and hits in consecutive seasons.
The Norborne, Mo., native is completing her fourth professional season with Athletes Unlimited, and first as a member of the AUSL's Oklahoma City Spark.
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