The Warsaw Athletic Department is announcing the recommendation of former Lady Tiger softball standout Hilary Kiser as the new head softball coach at WCHS. 

Kiser was chosen by the selection committee last week to replace Samantha Tew, who resigned this summer after her second season as head coach. Kiser's hiring is pending school board approval. 

She graduated from Warsaw in 2007, and was a highly-decorated player for the Lady Tigers. She was a three-time defensive MVP and was named Most Improved Player. 

In the summer after graduation, she was invited to play for the USA Athletes International team in Australia, and later accepted a full scholarship to play at Indiana Tech. She finished her softball career at Grace College, where she played for two seasons.

Kiser's passion for the game of softball runs deep.

"I am dedicated to building a successful program," she says. "I strongly believe that sports play an essential role in preparing students for adulthood, and I'm eager to be a part of that journey with my athletes."

She also expressed, in a statement after her selection, what she expects from the players in her program. 

"I expect dedication, hard work, and a positive attitude from all players," she says, "and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to lead this team. My coaching philosophy focuses on creating a positive, supportive environment where players can grow, build confidence, face challenges, and most importantly, enjoy the game. I believe that being part of a team equips athletes with invaluable life skills that will benefit them beyond the field."

Athletic Director Matt Binkerd says Kiser is the right person to take over the program.. 

"Hilary will do a great job building on the foundation of our softball program that Sam Tew built these past few years," Binkerd said.