Amanda Chidester joins Michigan softball coaching staff

Amanda Chidester, an Olympian and two-time Big Ten Softball Player of the Year, has joined first-year head coach Bonnie Tholl’s staff.

Tholl was recently named head coach after nearly three decades working with Carol Hutchins, who retired as the sport’s winningest coach after a 38-year head-coaching career at Michigan. The addition of Chidester, an Allen Park native, was announced Tuesday and rounds out Tholl’s staff.

"As a former Michigan captain, 'Chiddy' has a true passion for Michigan and a clear vision for what this program stands for,” Tholl said in a release. “She will elevate the play and competitiveness of our players immediately. Sharing her experiences as an Olympian, professional…