Egger takes over NIACC softball program

MASON CITY - Matt Egger has been hired as NIACC's new head softball coach.

Egger replaces Dan Gratz, who was the head coach of the Trojans from 2018-2021.

Egger was an assistant softball coach at the University of Northern Iowa from 2012-2017. Egger was the head softball coach at Ellsworth from 2009-12.

"The team has been fantastic since the day I arrived," Egger said. "They are ready to work and have done a fantastic job handling their responsibilities in the classroom and on the field.

"The energy they put into everything they do makes our job easier."

Egger will be assisted by Bob Horner, who is also the head varsity softball coach at Mason City High School.

"I also want to thank coach Horner for being here for the athletic department team while the hiring process was going on,"Egger said.

At Northern Iowa, Egger's duties were outfield coach, hitting coach, camp coordinator and travel coordinator.

As the head coach at Ellsworth, Egger's teams had 19 ICCAC all-region student-athletes, 17 ICCAC Academic all-region student-athletes, two NFCA all-Americans, one NJCAA distinguished academic All-American and one NJCAA all-American.

Egger said he's excited to be a part of the NIACC family.

"I want to thank President Dr. Schulz, athletic director Cam Olson, Dr. (Rachel) McGuire and the rest of the hiring committee for this opportunity," Egger said. "Coming to Mason City to work and coach softball at NIACC is something that I have wanted for a very long time - excited doesn't even explain it.

"Everyone I have met with since arriving have been so open and welcoming - what a great place with even better people."