Southeast Arkansas College is excited to announce the hiring of Tucker Hughes as the new head coach of the Lady Sharks Softball team. Hughes brings a wealth of coaching experience and a strong track record in player development to the program.
Hughes joins SEARK after spending the 2023-2024 season with the Georgia Highlands College softball program in Rome, Ga., where his efforts were challenged by roster limitations and injuries. Under his leadership, the Chargers saw multiple players earn All-Conference honors, including record-setting performances in stolen bases and batting averages.
Prior to his role in softball, Hughes spent three seasons with Georgia Highlands’ baseball program, helping guide the Chargers to 3 GCAA Conference Championships, 2 Region 17 Championship, 1 District Championship, 1 Region 17 Championship Runner Up, and the best start in Georgia Highlands College history. His recruiting efforts contributed to record-breaking team performances and a World Series Appearance with numerous players advancing to four-year programs, including several at the Division I level.
Before his tenure at Georgia Highlands, Hughes coached at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Ark., where he served as Pitching and Catching Coach as well as Recruiting Coordinator. During his time there, the team achieved its best start since 2008, and his pitching staff consistently ranked among the top in the conference. Hughes also held a coaching role at Waldorf University in Forrest City, Iowa., where he helped produce record-breaking performances in wins, strikeouts, and saves while mentoring multiple All-Conference players.
“I am excited to join Southeast Arkansas College and take the softball program to new heights,” said Hughes. “Our softball program here at SEARK will be competitive not only on the field but in the classroom. We want players that love to compete, work, and win championships.”
Southeast Arkansas College and the Lady Sharks 2024-2025 softball season was canceled due to limitations in team roster size to ensure the safety and well-being of our student-athletes.
Athletic Director Chad Kline expressed confidence in Hughes’ ability to lead the program. “Coach Hughes brings an incredible level of experience and dedication to player development. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to seeing the growth of our softball program under his leadership.”
