Former Sooners Pitcher Giselle Juarez, a 2021 Graduate, Appointed Oklahoma Sooners Softball Associate Sports Director…
NORMAN, OK — The Oklahoma Sooners softball community is celebrating a landmark moment, as one of its most cherished champions returns home in a leadership role. Giselle Juarez, the star pitcher who led Oklahoma to a national championship in 2021 and was named the Women’s College World Series Most Outstanding Player, has been officially appointed as the Associate Sports Director for OU Softball. The announcement, made by the University of Oklahoma Athletic Department earlier this week, marks a full-circle journey for a player whose influence continues to shape the sport.
Juarez’s appointment is more than symbolic—it’s a testament to the program’s commitment to nurturing leaders from within its own legacy. Her new role as Associate Sports Director will place her at the heart of the Sooners’ athletic operations, focusing on program development, player support, and long-term strategic planning.
From Pitcher’s Mound to Leadership Office
Giselle Juarez—or “G” as she’s affectionately known to fans and teammates—first stepped onto the Oklahoma campus in 2019 after transferring from Arizona State. Almost immediately, she became a key part of the Sooners’ rotation, dazzling fans with her poise, control, and explosive rise-ball. Over her three seasons in Norman, she posted a remarkable career ERA and amassed hundreds of strikeouts, culminating in one of the most dominant pitching performances in WCWS history in 2021.
In her final season, battling back from injury, Juarez led Oklahoma to a national title with a legendary postseason run. She went 5–0 in the WCWS and gave the Sooners everything she had on the biggest stage. Now, in her new position, she’ll be doing the same—this time behind the scenes, working to support the athletes and coaches as they pursue more championships.
A Vision for the Future of OU Softball
According to Athletic Director Joe Castiglione, Juarez’s hiring is part of a broader vision for integrating alumni into leadership roles.
“Giselle Juarez is more than a softball legend—she’s a leader, a thinker, and a passionate advocate for student-athletes,” Castiglione said. “She understands the culture of excellence here at Oklahoma because she helped build it. Her experience as a player and her dedication to education and equity make her a perfect fit for this role.”
Juarez, who earned her degree in Human Relations with a minor in Sports Business in 2021, has remained active in the softball community since graduation. She spent time mentoring youth athletes, working with nonprofit organizations that promote girls in sports, and recently completed a leadership development program through the NCAA. Her return to Oklahoma is the culmination of a dream she’s long had: to influence college athletics from the inside.
In a statement released on OU Athletics’ official site, Juarez shared her thoughts on the opportunity.
> “I’ve always believed that the Oklahoma Softball program is about more than wins and trophies. It’s about people—players, coaches, staff, and fans who give everything for something bigger than themselves. Being able to return in this capacity is an honor I don’t take lightly. I’m here to support our student-athletes, empower their journeys, and help take this program to even greater heights.”
What Her Role Entails
As the Associate Sports Director, Juarez will work closely with Head Coach Patty Gasso and the athletic administration. Her responsibilities will include:
Athlete Development: Overseeing mental wellness, academic support, and leadership training for players.
Program Operations: Supporting day-to-day program management, including scheduling, travel logistics, and compliance coordination.
Alumni Engagement: Strengthening ties with OU Softball alumni and building long-term networks for mentoring and fundraising.
Diversity & Inclusion: Serving as a liaison for initiatives related to equity and representation within OU Athletics.
Coach Gasso, who coached Juarez during her storied career, was deeply moved by her return.
“Giselle was one of the most mentally tough and graceful competitors I’ve ever coached,” Gasso said. “She inspired not just our team, but the entire sport. Now, she’s bringing that same drive and wisdom to our leadership. I can’t wait to see how she shapes the future of OU Softball.”
A Beloved Figure in Norman
Juarez’s impact on the program—and the city of Norman—extends far beyond the stats. She was known for her humility, her spiritual strength, and her ability to remain composed under pressure. During her playing days, fans often spoke of her as the embodiment of what it meant to be a Sooner: resilient, courageous, and full of grace.
Even today, she remains a role model for young pitchers across the country. Her story—of injury, comeback, and ultimate triumph—is a touchstone for athletes facing adversity.
Social media erupted in celebration when news broke of her return. Former teammates, fans, and sports media praised the decision, calling it “a home run move” and “a masterclass in bringing leadership full circle.”
Building a Legacy Beyond the Field
Juarez is part of a growing trend of former female athletes stepping into prominent administrative and coaching roles. Her transition from athlete to director is particularly impactful in a sport where representation in leadership has lagged behind on-field success.
“She represents the best of what we hope student-athletes become,” said Heather Reimer, OU’s Deputy Director of Athletics. “It’s not just about who you are on the field, but who you become when you step off it. Giselle is the perfect example.”
In her own words, Juarez said she’s not done competing—just competing in a new way.
> “My cleats might be hung up, but I’m still here to win. Just now, it’s for a team behind the scenes. And I promise, we’re not slowing down.”
The Next Chapter in the Sooner Story
As Oklahoma continues to build on its dynasty in women’s college softball, the return of a champion like Giselle Juarez to the administrative team signifies more than just nostalgia—it’s a strategic step toward sustained excellence.
Her intelligence, integrity, and intimate understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level make her one of the most promising young leaders in college sports today. And as she steps into her new office at Love’s Field, one thing is clear: Giselle Juarez is still throwing heat—just in a different way.
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