From Player to Program Builder: Gina Oaks Garcia’s Journey Through Every Level of College Softball

In this episode of The Significant Coaching Podcast, Matt Rogers welcomes Gina Oaks Garcia, Head Softball Coach at NCAA Division I Cal State Fullerton. A two-time All-American and former professional athlete, Gina has coached at every level of college softball—NAIA, Division III, Division II, and now D1—bringing a unique and powerful perspective on leadership, team culture, and athlete development. Being back home has suited her as she was named The Big West Conference Coach of the Year in just Year One of her return to lead her alma mater!

Gina shares how her experiences shaped her approach to coaching, what it means to return home to Fullerton, and why D1 programs are increasingly looking to hire coaches from lower divisions. If you're a softball coach, player, or parent, this is a must-listen conversation full of insight and inspiration.

🎯 And if you're here for recruiting help—don’t miss two game-changing tools available at coachmattrogers.com/books:

• Significant Recruiting: The Playbook for Prospective College Athletes – a practical guide to help student-athletes take ownership of their recruiting journey.
• The Softball Recruit’s Journal – the sport-specific tracker, planner, and weekly reflection tool every serious softball recruit needs.

You can also subscribe to the This Week in Significant Coaching newsletter, take the Significant Recruiting Launchpad virtual course, or schedule a 1-on-1 strategy session with Matt directly on the site.

📲 Like, subscribe, and share—this episode was made for the softball community.

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