WEST BURLINGTON, Iowa - Southeastern Community College has named Lindsay Wilhelm as the next head coach of the Blackhawks softball program.
Wilhelm takes over the program after serving as the Blackhawks' pitching coach during the 2024-25 season, helping guide one of the program's strongest pitching performances in recent years. She brings years of coaching experience, deep roots in southeast Iowa, and a lifelong passion for developing student-athletes.
A graduate of SCC, Wilhelm earned an associate degree in criminal justice before completing a bachelor's degree in exercise science from Arizona State University. She graduated from Louisa-Muscatine High School and has spent years coaching youth and travel softball throughout the region while also working as a trainer at Great River Health.
"One of the things that stood out about Lindsay is how invested she already was in this program," said John McVey, athletic director. "She cares about our student-athletes, understands what Blackhawk softball represents, and has the energy and work ethic to keep this program moving forward."
Before joining the Blackhawks coaching staff, Wilhelm built a reputation throughout southeast Iowa as a pitching instructor and coach. Those relationships have already paid dividends. In just a few weeks, she rebuilt much of the team's roster by recruiting student-athletes from across southeast Iowa while retaining key returning players.
"I've always loved coaching, and this is something I've always wanted to do," Wilhelm said. "I'm excited for the opportunity to lead this program."
Building around local talent will be one of Wilhelm's priorities as she begins her first season as head coach.
"There's a lot of Iowa talent that's been somewhat overlooked," she said. "I'd love to come to an SCC game and have fans in the stands watching local athletes compete. That's something I'm really excited to build."
Her coaching philosophy is simple.
"Hard work pays off," Wilhelm said. "If the girls put in the work, I'll put in the work, and it'll pay off."
Beyond wins and losses, Wilhelm wants to create a culture built on communication, accountability, and trust.
"There's nothing my players can't ask me," she said. "They won't always get the answer they want, but they'll always get a conversation. I want to be approachable, and I want respect to go both ways."
SCC President Dr. Michael Ash said Wilhelm's commitment to students and her connection to the region make her a strong choice to lead Blackhawk softball.
"We're excited to see Lindsay lead our softball program," Ash said. "She brings a strong commitment to our student-athletes and a genuine investment in our community. We're looking forward to the positive impact she'll have on our campus and in the lives of our students."
As head coach, Wilhelm will oversee all aspects of the softball program, including recruiting, player development, practice planning, and game strategy. She hopes to build a program that competes with energy, represents the college well, and gives local student-athletes an opportunity to succeed close to home.
"I want people to expect energy," Wilhelm said. "No matter what's happening in the game, we're going to compete, support each other, and play with pride. I'm excited to build the next chapter of SCC softball."
