June 19, 2008

Saluki softball head coach Kerri Blaylock has agreed to a five-year contract, the school announced Thursday. Blaylock, a native of nearby Herrin, recently completed her ninth season at SIU. She has a 345-156 lifetime record and five NCAA Tournament appearances to her credit.

"Kerri is one of the top softball coaches in the country," said Mario Moccia, SIU's director of athletics. "Saluki softball is an elite program both on the field and in the classroom, and we are extremely fortunate that she has chosen to stay here and build upon that tremendous success."

Blaylock has never had a losing season at SIU and has won 40 or more games four times. The Salukis have won two MVC titles under Blaylock (2004, 2005) and nine games in the NCAA Tournament.

The program has also consistently ranked among the best in the nation academically. Last fall, the National Fastpitch Coaches Association rated Southern Illinois second in the nation based on team GPA, and the Salukis have ranked among the top 10 by the NFCA in six of the last seven years. Blaylock has mentored seven Academic All-Americans during her tenure as head coach.

"I am very thankful and excited to be rewarded with a long term contract," Blaylock said. "My heart has always been with Southern Illinois University. I have had other opportunities, but my goal has always been to take this program to new heights. I greatly appreciate the support of the administration and know that my staff and I will continue to work hard everyday.

In a related move, Christy Connoyer was promoted to associate head coach. Connoyer, who is also a southern Illinois native originally from Bethalto, joined Blaylock's staff three years ago. Prior to SIU, she was the head coach at Tulsa.

"Christy has been a vital part of our success over the last three years," Blaylock said. "We wanted to make a commitment to Christy's future with Saluki softball."