Valadez-Haralabidis Named Softball Coach

(Crete, Neb.) - Doane University Athletics is pleased to announce Samantha (Sam) Valadez-Haralabidis ('17) as the Head Coach for Tiger Softball. Valadez-Haralabidis will take over for Renae Littrell, who recently stepped down to pursue opportunities outside of coaching. Littrell won 175 games as the Tigers' Head Coach over two stints (2012-17, 2023-25).

"First, I want to thank Coach Littrell for all the great work she has done with our softball program and wish her and her family the best moving forward," commented Doane Vice President of Athletics Mark Wateska. "The softball program has made great strides the past two years and we are excited to keep the momentum going with Coach Valadez-Haralabidis. Sam has been an integral part of the success and we look forward to continuing building the program under her direction."

Valadez-Haralabidis has served as the Tigers' Associate Head Coach since August 2023 and has been a key contributor to the program's rebuild.

"I'm incredibly honored and excited to be named the next head coach of this program," Valadez-Haralabidis commented. "I'd like to thank our Athletic Director, Mark Wateska, Associate Athletic Director, Rick Schmuecker, and our administration for the opportunity to lead. My husband and I feel truly blessed to continue being part of the Doane and Crete community. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of our family and friends throughout this journey. This program means a great deal to me, and I'm eager to lead it forward with energy, integrity, and purpose."

Valadez-Haralabidis played collegiately at Doane from 2014-17 and was the starting third baseman on the Tigers' 2015 Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) Championship team. She helped the Tigers to the program's only NAIA National Opening Round appearances in 2015 and 2016. A three-time All-GPAC selection, Valadez-Haralabidis hit .373 during her career with a .546 slugging percentage and .446 on-base percentage, all Top 10 marks in program history.

"Becoming the head coach at my alma mater is an incredibly meaningful and humbling experience," said Valadez-Haralabidis. "It was a privilege to return to a place that helped shape me—this time in a leadership role. I'm honored to carry on the legacy of this institution and build on its proud tradition, both on and off the field."

Valadez-Haralabidis expressed that "as an alum, it's especially powerful to now be in a position to help develop the next generation of strong women leaders. I can't wait to support our current players on their journey—and one day welcome them as proud alumni alongside me and my teammates."

Following her playing days, she moved into coaching. Her first stop was at NCAA Division II Chadron State (Neb.) before some time at current GPAC member, Waldorf (Iowa). Prior to returning to Doane, she was on the Chaffey (Calif.) staff, helping the team to the 2022 conference title.

"The past two seasons have given me invaluable insight into the culture, values, and potential of this team," commented Valadez-Haralabidis. "Working side by side with Coach Littrell, strong groundwork has been laid, and I plan to build on that with a continued emphasis on player development, accountability, and competitive excellence. I'm looking forward to expanding on the momentum we've created, and I'm confident we can elevate our program even further."

Doane is coming off a 20-26 season and 10-12 mark in the GPAC, tying for seventh place. The Tigers advanced to the Northwestern Bracket championship game in the GPAC tournament before their season came to a close.