Howard College Head Softball Coach Kelly Austene Raines begins her fourth year as Head Coach of the Hawks.  Coach Raines led last year’s squad to a solid 32-21 record and once again advanced to the regional tournament.  In her four years at Howard, Coach Raines has compiled an impressive 137-87-2 record.

Coach Raines came to Howard from NAIA Lindenwood University in Saint Charles, Missouri where she served as the head women’s softball coach of the Lady Lions from 2003-2005.  

The Hallsville, Missouri native began her college softball career in 1996 playing pitcher for Pensacola Junior College in Pensacola Florida, earning her Associate of Arts degree in 1997. She then continued her college career playing two years for the Lindenwood University Lions.  She received several honors, including being named to the All-Tournament and All-Region team as well as earning NAIA All-American recognition for two consecutive years 1998, 1999.  She also received the prestigious award of Louisville Slugger/NFCA All-American 1998, 1999.  Raines received her Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, Major: Sports Management, Minor: Business Administration, in December 1999.  She also earned her Master’s degree in Business Administration, in December 2000 from Lindenwood University. In October of 2007 Coach Raines was indicated into the Lindenwood University Sports Hall of Fame. She was part of the Inaugural inductee class.

Coach Raines is no stranger to the WJCAC level of competition having served as assistant coach at Midland College for the 2001-2003 seasons.  While at Midland, she helped guide the Lady Chaps to one conference championship, two region championships and two appearances at the National Tournament in Clermont, Florida finishing 4th and 7th respectively.

Coach Raines  hopes that the “This is the year” for winning the Regional Tournament and advancing to the sixteen team National Tournament in Saint George, Utah.

Howard College Athletic Director Britt Smith describes Raines as an effective teacher/coach of the game. “She is a high energy individual and is well respected by her colleagues throughout the coaching profession.  Howard College is very fortunate to have Kelly lead our women’s program,” said Smith.   

Coach Raines family consists of Husband Scott Raines, who is the Fitness Center Director and Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach and 3 year old son Austen Scott Raines.