GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — After nearly two decades of dedicated service, Brad Koch, the longtime leader of the Aquinas College softball program, is closing one chapter and beginning another. Koch, who has spent 18 years as part of the Saints family—nine of them as head coach—has announced he is stepping away from Aquinas to pursue a new opportunity.
Koch leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be hard to match. Since taking over as head coach in 2017, he has compiled an incredible 290-138-1 overall record. Under his guidance, Aquinas transformed into a consistent powerhouse in the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC), capturing two regular season championships (2018, 2021), a WHAC Tournament title (2021), and two NAIA National Tournament appearances (2021, 2024).
In 2024, the Saints tied the school record with 42 wins and made history with their first-ever national tournament victories, defeating Middle Georgia State and Rio Grande. Koch's achievements earned him WHAC Coach of the Year honors twice and recognition from the National Fastpitch Coaches Association as Regional Coaching Staff of the Year in 2018.
"It has meant the world to me for the last 18 years to be part of the Aquinas family," Koch said. "I've had the privilege of coaching hundreds of wonderful young ladies over the course of this time, and it has been a blessing to see them grow as players and people."
Koch has not only left a mark in the record books but also in the lives of his student-athletes. During his tenure, AQ produced a WHAC Player of the Year, two Newcomers of the Year, 23 First-Team All-Conference selections, and 12 Gold Glove winners. His teams consistently excelled off the field as well, averaging nearly nine WHAC All-Academic honorees per year.
"Brad Koch has been a tremendous leader and ambassador for Aquinas College over the past nine seasons," said Deputy Athletic Director Connor Leppink. "His impact on our softball program goes far beyond the 290 wins—he's helped shape a culture of excellence, integrity, and genuine care for our student-athletes. While we're sad to see him go, we're incredibly grateful for all he's poured into AQ and wish him nothing but success in this next chapter."
Koch originally joined the Aquinas athletic staff in 2008, serving as an assistant for nine seasons before being named the ninth head coach in program history. He also brought valuable experience from previous coaching stints at Grand Rapids Community College and Kenowa Hills High School.
Beyond wins and titles, Koch has been a pillar of the Aquinas Athletics Department—a presence defined by humility, mentorship, and relentless passion.
"Brad Koch has been more than just a coach at Aquinas—he's been a cornerstone of our department and a true friend to so many of us," said Assistant AD and Director of Athletic Communications Joey Sutherlin. "His dedication to the softball program, to his student-athletes, and to the mission of AQ Athletics has left an indelible mark. Personally, I've been lucky to call Brad a lifelong friend, and while it's tough to see him step away, I'm incredibly proud of everything he's accomplished and excited for what's next in his journey."
"Beyond just as an amazing softball coach, Brad will be missed for his compassion and dedication to service," added Mike Ingram, Director of Campus Ministry. "He regularly helped with keeping track of the student-athletes' number of service hours. While often soft spoken, Brad was always ready and willing to advocate for both his team and student-athletes in general. Anyone who knows Brad also knows how deeply committed to his faith he is. Both on and off the diamond, Brad has been a role model and he will be missed."
Looking ahead, Koch remains confident in the future of AQ Softball. "They have a great core group coming back, ten solid freshmen, and two transfers who will contribute right away. I think they'll have a good chance to compete at the top of the WHAC next year."
A national search is underway for Koch's successor, with Aquinas Hall of Famer and longtime coach Mary Takas stepping in as interim head coach. Though filling Koch's shoes will be no easy task, the program remains in strong hands.
Coach Koch's legacy at Aquinas is one defined by loyalty, leadership, and love for the game. His energy, passion, and presence will be sorely missed—but his impact will remain woven into the fabric of Saints Softball for years to come.
Thank you, BK. You will always be a Saint.
