ANDERSON, S.C. – The Anderson University softball program is eager to announce the hiring of Vanessa Wilson as the new assistant coach effective Dec. 1.
 
"I am super excited for the opportunity that God has blessed me with to be apart of such an amazing program that not only has a passion for softball but also for Him and His glory." said Wilson.
 
Wilson comes to Anderson after a year at Auburn University of Montgomery working as a Graduate Assistant for Athletic Administration.
 
"I am excited to welcome Vanessa Wilson to our coaching staff." said head Coach Kelly Roberts.
 
The Loganville, Ga. native competed for four seasons at Newberry College where she recorded 19 homeruns, 110 RBI and a .330 batting average. In her senior year, she led the team in RBI, doubles, triples, total bases, tied for first in homeruns, and was second on the team in hits. In the same season, Wilson was in the Top 10 of the South Atlantic Conference with 10 home runs and 47 RBI while also being named to the All-SAC third team. In the Newberry softball all-time records, she is ranked 10th in runs scored (106), eighth in homeruns (19) and RBIs (110) and fifth in walks (52).
 
Wilson earned her bachelor's degree from Newberry College in 2024, Majoring in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood add-on before earning her master's degree at AUM in Dec. 2025. During her time as an athlete, she was a two-time CSC academic all-district nominee, inducted into the Bachman Honor Society at Newberry College (top 8% of the graduating class), two-time Student Teacher of the Year honoree, and a graduation commencement speaker.
 
"Her experience competing in the SAC gives her a deep understanding of the preparation and competitiveness required at this level. She brings outstanding energy, leadership, and a true passion for developing student-athletes. Vanessa's strong faith and character shine through in the way she approaches the game of softball. I am grateful to Dr. Bert Epting for his support and for allowing us to make this important addition to our program." added Roberts.
 
The softball program is entering a new era as Roberts and Wilson look to carry the historical success of the team into their first season together.