Albany, NY—Russell Sage College’s Director of Athletics Jim Lyons has announced the selection of Stephanie Reinhardt (Albany, NY/Colonie Central) as the next head softball coach. She replaces Erica Li, who served the Gators for five seasons and has transitioned into an administrative role at RSC as Associate Athletic Director.

Lyons commented, “I am thrilled to welcome Stephanie Reinhardt to Russell Sage, as our next head softball coach!” He added, “Success has followed Stephanie everywhere she has gone as a softball coach and player.  She brings with her a perfect blend of college coaching and recruiting experience, coupled with her background as a club and high school coach here in the Capital District.  RSC softball is in great hands as we work to maintain and improve our standing as one of the top softball programs in the Empire 8 and New York State.”

Reinhardt commented, “I am very excited and honored to be taking over the Russell Sage softball program!” She added, Coach Li has created a culture of success that I plan on continuing as the program’s new head coach. I can’t wait to come home to the Capital Region and get to work with the Gator student-athletes.”

She arrives at RSC after serving as the assistant coach at Iona University for the 2022-2023 academic year and guided the Gaels to a run for the 2023 MAAC Softball Championship. She spent the previous season at nearby Siena College also as an assistant coach.

Reinhardt was very familiar with the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, being a part of the league in some capacity since 2013. Reinhardt started four seasons for the Manhattan College Jaspers at shortstop, setting program records for consecutive games played, games started and innings played. Reinhardt joined the Siena coaching staff in September of 2020, eventually being elevated to the top assistant in October 2021.

After graduating from Manhattan College in 2018 with her bachelor of science degree in both primary and special education, Reinhardt spent three seasons coaching, lending her services at her alma mater Colonie Central High School, Fieldston Ethical Culture School and Fusion Softball. As a high school student-athlete, she excelled at shortstop, and helped to lead the 2010 team to the Section II NYSPHSAA Championship.  She is currently working on her MBA at Iona.