WINTER HAVEN – When it comes to the 2025 Polk State Softball coaching staff, one might say Head Coach Kevin Lewis has his bases covered.
Holly Jones is the newest addition for the Eagles. She joins Lewis, Assistant Coach Tate McClellan, and Pitching Coach Madison Edwards on what’s now a four-member staff.
“I have about a decade of coaching experience,” Jones said. “I live in Auburndale and wanted to start coaching at the college level. There was no better way than with the local team.”
A native of Palm City, Fla., Jones was a two-way player at Jensen Beach High School where she earned All-Area first team and FHSAA Class 5A Player of the Year honors in 2013. Jones would go on to spend two years at Agnes Scott College, an NCAA Division III program in Decatur, Ga. In 2014, she earned Great South Athletic Conference (GSAC) first-team, All-Freshman, and Pitcher of the Year recognition after going 7-7 from the circle with a 3.42 ERA.
“Holly is a huge get for us,” Lewis said. “She has ties to this community, which will help us with recruiting. She has collegiate experience playing and coaching. She’s someone who will challenge our players mentally and physically. We’re very excited to have her.”
Following her two years at Agnes Scott, Jones transferred to Florida Gulf Coast University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism in 2017. Since 2016, Jones has worked as a coach with the United States Specialty Sports Association, coaching and scouting players from ages 9 to 18. She’s spent her summers coaching college athletes in the American Collegiate League since 2022, twice serving as a head coach.
“I love softball more than anything,” Jones added. “I’ve always found a way back to softball. I love the team atmosphere. As a coach, I learn more from my players than they ever could from me.”
For her love of coaching, Jones credits Lori Miller – her high school coach at Jensen Beach. During their time together at Jensen Beach High School, the Falcons had a winning season every year.
“Since 2009, she’s continually been my mentor,” Jones noted. “We still talk all the time. She taught me to be the best person and player I could on and off the field.”
At Polk State, Jones will be working primarily with the outfielders while assisting Edwards with the pitchers. After meeting Lewis, Jones knew immediately she’d be a good fit for the program.
“I liked how well we got along,” Jones said. “He has a lot of accolades himself. We have a very strong incoming freshman class. I want to help him elevate the program.”
Jones and her wife, Becca, have three cats. When she’s not on the softball diamond, Jones enjoys spending time with her family, who have been a key part of her support system. “Being able to immerse myself in the game has been very rewarding,” she concluded. “I’m looking forward to growing as a coach. I’d love to be a head coach one day.”
