Sept. 7, 2004

Columbia, Mo. -Missouri softball Head Coach Ty Singleton announced today that Autumn Eastes (pronounced EAST-is) has been named an assistant coach for the upcoming 2005 season. A former Texas All-American, Eastes comes to Missouri after working at Fresno State for three years as an assistant strength coach for the Bulldog softball program. "Autumn brings with her an enthusiasm and passion for the sport of softball," Singleton said. "I know she's committed to being the best coach possible and she is the type of person that will lead through service. Autumn is both an exceptional outfielder and slap hitter and I'm certain that her knowledge and excitement of the sport will carry over to the team." Eastes is a 2002 graduate of the University of Texas and received her Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology with a minor in nutrition. During her four years with the Longhorns, Eastes played outfield for the top-ranked program. The left-handed slap-hitter was named to the 1999 All-Big 12 First Team for her efforts both in the field and at the plate, and was also named to the 1999 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-America Third Team and All-Midwest Region First Team. A native of Lake Isabella, Calif., Eastes is a certified member of the United States Weightlifting Federation.