Wendy Hogue is back at the helm of the William Carey softball.
The Crusader alum will be a familiar face in Hattiesburg. Hogue previously led the program from 2005 to 2014, when she reestablished consistent success for a club that had not achieved a winning season since 1996, the program’s first season.
During that span, WCU hit more than a few high marks. The Lady Crusaders notched their first-ever 40-win season and trip to the NAIA World Series in Hogue’s fourth year. They captured the school’s first conference championship and a second straight world series appearance a year later. The Crusaders landed conference titles and world series in each of the following three seasons.
“We are excited to welcome Wendy back to our family,” William Carey Athletic Director Tracy English said. “She is a proven winner and leader, and I can’t wait to work with her and watch her continue to grow the program.”
In 2014, Hogue’s final as the head coach at William Carey, the Lady Crusaders fell one win short of a national championship in another world series appearance. Shortly after, Hogue was named the head coach at nearby Southern Miss, where she spent the next five seasons.
Hogue stepped down at USM in 2016 to spend more time with family, though she soon was back in the profession as the leader of Petal High School. The Panthers captured the school’s first ever softball state championship in 2022 under Hogue’s guidance. She has since served as the athletic director for Petal School District.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Dr. Matt Dillon and the entire Petal School District for their support, encouragement, and belief in me. It’s the people of this district – coaches, students, administrators, and colleagues who have made what should have been an easy decision so difficult,” Hogue said.
“With a full a grateful heart, I’m excited to return to William Carey University, my alma mater, and my Carey family, as head softball coach.”
Craig Fletcher, who took over in 2014 following Hogue’s departure, carried on the momentum. From 2015 to 2025, the Lady Crusaders collected 416 wins to just 151 losses, along with three regular season conference titles and three conference tournament championships. Fletcher will remain on staff as an assistant under Hogue.
On top of returning to lead her alma mater, Hogue will also have the privilege of coaching her daughter Kinley in the 2026 campaign.
“Kinley and I spent the first 10 years of her life as part of the Carey softball family,” Hogue concluded. “And now, to be back as her coach in this special place is truly incredible.”
