He wasn’t a professional coach or a former college star – just a softball dad who loved the game and his girls. Now, he’s at the helm of a historic journey, guiding Texas Tech to the College World Series, toppling the softball giants one by one.
Gerry Glasco’s coaching journey began for one simple reason: his daughters needed him. In the early 2000s, Glasco's three daughters – Tara, Erin and Geri Ann – were all crazy about softball. So he stepped up. He volunteered to coach their youth team – and kept on coaching. Eventually at the local high school, learning the ropes as an assistant coach. Then Glasco realized there was a greater need. Small-town girls with big talent deserved a shot on the national stage.
In 2001, Glasco founded the Southern Force, an 18-and-under travel team, molding them into a competitive squad. In 2004, they shocked everyone by winning a national championship. Glasco wasn’t chasing personal glory – he was a dad on a mission to give these kids a chance. In the process, he discovered his own calling.
Lessons
- Seize the Moment: Step Up When It Counts
The most meaningful opportunities often come when you least expect them — but only if you’re willing to step in and make a difference. - Opportunities Can Come from the Unexpected
The best paths often start in the most unlikely places — embrace them.
A Late Start in the Big Leagues of College
Despite all his success in youth softball, Glasco never imagined coaching college softball. In 2008, after nearly a decade of building the Southern Force, Glasco's reputation had quietly grown. The next year, at age 51, he got a phone call that changed everything. The University of Georgia – an SEC powerhouse – wanted him to join their coaching staff. Glasco took a leap of faith. He often joked later that he was “the oldest rookie coach in the SEC.”
He didn’t start coaching college ball until most people his age were thinking about retirement, but he made those years count. His unlikely rise was living proof to every parent and coach that the path to success isn’t always linear or early – sometimes the long road brings the sweetest reward.
