Karlyn Stephens is new SCC softball coach | News

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WECT) - A familiar face in Columbus County athletics is stepping up to the plate as head coach of the Southeastern Community College softball team.

Karlyn Stephens of Lake Waccamaw, who has coached several sports at East Columbus High School, will lead the Lady Rams beginning in the 2013 season. She will also serve as a physical education instructor at SCC.

The 40-year-old grew up in Columbus County and graduated in 1990 from Whiteville High School, where she was a three-sport athlete in tennis, basketball and softball. Stephens played softball at Louisburg College and transferred to UNC Wilmington, earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1994.

She earned her master’s degree in physical education from UNC Pembroke in 2003.

Stephens has worked at East Columbus since1997. She coached volleyball for 14 years, softball for five years, girls varsity basketball for nine years, and girls and boys soccer for three years.

“I have spent my entire education career at East Columbus High School. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time there and am indebted to the high school and Columbus County Schools,” Stephens said. “I simply could not turn down the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level. There is strong support at Southeastern for the softball team, and I am glad to be on board during this exciting time for the program.”

“Karlyn brings many years of teaching and coaching experience. Being a long-time member of the community, she knows the softball coaches and players throughout our region. Those relationships are vital to successful recruiting,” said SCC Athletics Director Clarence Ganus.

The players are excited to have Stephens aboard and are looking forward to kicking off the season, Ganus reported.

“I have witnessed Karlyn’s work ethic over the years. I am confident that she will continue to advance our softball team with a winning and competitive attitude,” he said.

The Lady Rams kickoff their 2013 season at Stephens’ alma mater, Louisburg College.