Pitching Coach

Ariel Rico, Pitching Coach for the women’s softball team, is a dedicated coach driven by her desire to give back to the sport that shaped her. Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Arizona Christian University, it was there that she honed her leadership skills and deepened her connection to softball. Inspired by her former coach, now Nelson Head Coach Jimmy Gutierrez, and his values, Rico pursued coaching to pour back into the sport that help raise her. The opportunity to join him at Nelson University was a natural fit, aligning with her passion for mentoring young athletes. Coach Rico integrates Christian values into her coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of faith in navigating the challenges of college athletics. Drawing from her own experiences as a player, she coaches her athletes with the guidance and support she valued during her career, fostering resilience, character, and a strong spiritual foundation in their athletic journeys. As the Pitching Coach, Coach Rico brings enthusiasm and a faith-driven approach to developing her players, creating a positive and impactful environment for the team.