Bradley Hofmeister
Staff Writer
After 20 years of coaching softball at Mira Costa, head coach Richard Amberic decided it was time to finally hang up the spikes and enter retirement. Brittany Gardner, Amberic’s junior varsity coach for two years, was hired as Costa’s new head varsity coach upon his retirement.
“What I enjoy most about both coaching and playing softball is it has a very competitive nature,” Gardner said. “It is great for me because I am a very competitive person in general.”
Growing up in Pennsylvania, Gardner took an early interest in softball. This interest later developed into a part time career and a lifelong passion. She played competitively at her dream school, Boston University, where she led the team to three American East Conference Championships.
Photos: New Mira Costa softball coach pictures.
“I enjoy coaching softball because it gives me an opportunity to get back into the sport that I have played and enjoyed for so many years,” Gardner said. “As I grew up playing the game and played in college, I really enjoy having the opportunity to work with the girls and develop their skills.”
After graduating from Boston University, Gardner moved to California to find a job in the real estate industry. She wanted to give back and have a bigger role in her community, so she took a part-time job coaching Mira Costa’s JV softball team.
Website: Mira Costa softball roster and program’s website.
“Coach Brittany has really changed this program for the better,” senior catcher Jamie Hoffman said. “She finds a way to always do something new at practice and keep everyone participating by not leaving anyone out in the drills.”
Gardner is excited to start the new season and have the chance to help the girls reach their maximum potential. With a very competitive and hard working coaching style, Gardner hopes that the girls will be able to to win a Bay League title this year and qualify for California Interscholastic Federation playoffs.
Website: The Mira Costa softball team’s schedule.
“I really look forward to turning the program around here at Costa by bringing a fresh new start and perspective,” Gardner said. “The previous coach did an amazing job with his time here at Costa and I hope I can continue to bring the same type passion and competitiveness that he was able to do for so many years.”
Video: Mira Costa senior Sloan Cooksey pitching in the first game of the season at the Mira Costa softball field. Unfortunately the girls were not able to gain the lead and eventually went on to lose the game.
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