Region IX Coach of the Year Kevin Kaalberg has been announced as the next Head Softball Coach at Southeastern Community College. Most recently Kevin served as Head Coach at McCook Community College in Nebraska for the past two seasons.
"When we set out in search of our next head softball coach, we were looking to build upon the foundation of success and tradition that our softball program has experienced. To that end, we wanted to focus in on someone who has an appreciation for the rich softball talent in Iowa and the southeast Iowa region," Athletic Director Peyton Deterding stated. "It quickly became evident that Kevin embodied the qualities of hard work, dedication, and family atmosphere we were looking for in our next coach. Those qualities along with his vast knowledge of the Iowa softball landscape make him a great fit at SCC. As with many of our programs, I feel softball has unlimited potential and have full confidence Kevin is right person to lead our student-athletes to continued success."
At McCook, Coach Kaalberg reached unparalleled success in a short amount of time. During his two seasons, his squads achieved an overall record of 80-35, including 47-19 in Region IX and were Region IX Champions this past season, which was the first in program history. As well, Kaalberg's teams set 10 school records and ranked in the top 20 in the nation in several offensive categories. They were twice Nebraska Conference champions and had the second highest win total in program history with 42 in 2022. There was also emphasis in the classroom as well, as the 2021 team received Academic All-American status.
Prior to McCook, Kaalberg headed up high school programs at West Branch and Durant, Iowa, while also leading respected travel programs in eastern Iowa. As well, Kevin spent time in finance at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
"I am very excited to be back in southeast Iowa. I'm looking forward for the opportunity to continue to build on the softball tradition at SCC. I'm excited about the growth potential in the region," Kaalberg stated.
Kevin is a native of Kalona, IA. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Mount Mercy and a Master's Degree from Upper Iowa University.
