HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – Northern Kentucky University Norse softball announced the addition of a pair of volunteer assistant coaches ahead of the 2026 season, Jackson Laumann and Emily Allphin. 

"I am thrilled about the addition of Jackson to our coaching staff," said head coach Morgan Gerak. "He brings a fresh perspective to our offense that our players are already loving. His experience in the MLB will enhance our offensive production. Jackson's passion and energy will make a tremendous impact on our program!"

Laumann, a former professional baseball player, was drafted in the 31st round of the 2011 MLB Amateur Draft, spending five years between the Atlanta Braves and Chicago White Sox organizations. Since leaving pro ball as a player, he's been serving as a regional supervisor/area scout for the Seattle Mariners, a title he held from October 2015 to September 2024. Laumann managed the Ohio Valley area during this time, scouting both amateur and professional players in the Midwest. Since 2023, he has owned and operated D-BAT Hebron, a baseball and softball training facility in Northern Kentucky. 

"I am so grateful to have Emily on our coaching staff," said Gerak. "Her recent experience as a player has helped her create deep connections with our team. Emily's willingness to do whatever is needed for our program to be successful will help us win more games!"

Allphin, a former collegiate softball player at Walsh, Shawnee State, and Thomas More, joins the Norse staff after five years of experience as a travel softball coach. A native of New Richmond, Ohio, she's also served as a private hitting instructor during her time in college. In 2025, with Thomas More, she posted a batting average of .303 and earned CSC Academic All-District Honors. Allphin earned her Bachelor's at TMU in spring 2025, and is currently earning her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from NKU.

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