LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) is pleased to expand its recognition of member coaches with the announcement of its inaugural Assistant Coach of the Year winners.

These awards salute the efforts of coaches from the various NFCA membership categories for their tireless dedication to the sport of softball and to the continued education, growth and development of young women, both on and off the playing field. All seven of this year's first class of recipients played a pivotal role in their team's success during the 2013-14 softball season.

The first-ever recipient from NJCAA Division II goes to Northwest's Carie Dever Boaz, who helped the Rangers set single-season school records in eight offensive categories in her first season assisting MACJC Hall of Fame head coach Mike Rowan.

"This is a great honor and one of the most fun seasons I've ever had," Dever Boaz said. "It's great to be back in college coaching alongside coach Rowan and I can't wait to see what's in store for next season. I really like the direction our program is heading."

Northwest fell one win shy of the 30-win plateau in 2014 but had an outstanding statistical season, setting new school records in slugging percentage (.492), hits (390), doubles (83), triples (22), stolen bases (143), hit-by-pitch (48), RBIs (253) & total bases (550).

Dever Boaz came to Northwest after five seasons as an assistant at Magnolia Heights, helping the Lady Chiefs to five state tournament appearances with two runner-up finishes. She also taught science and established the first ever SADD program at the school.

Dever Boaz has over 20 years of experience as a coach at the high school, collegiate and professional levels and is a well-known clinician and author, with five instructional videos to her credit.