Entering her fourth season as the head coach of the George Fox University softball program in 2012, Jessica Hollen remains enthusiastic and positive about the direction the Bruins are heading as she faces the challenge of guiding the Bruins back toward the top of the rugged Northwest Conference.  

Taking over a program that has not had a winning season since 2001, Hollen led the Bruins to a 5-32 overall record and seventh-place finish in the NWC at 3-23 in her inaugural year of 2009.  The following season, the Bruins improved dramatically to 13-27 overall and 7-21 in the conference, again finishing seventh.  Beset by injuries to four key players early in the 2011 season, the Bruins went 12-28 and 6-22 in the NWC for another seventh-place showing.  Her career record now stands at 30-87 (.256).

“I knew the early years of rebuilding would not be easy, but I believe we are creating a competitive, energetic team with a lot of heart and a great work ethic that will be a positive representation of George Fox,” says Hollen.  “I have a passion for softball, and enjoy coaching in a God-honoring atmosphere.  I take coaching seriously, believing that coaches are role models for athletes, and that coaching gives the opportunity to really be a part of an athlete’s life.”

Hollen began her softball career as a player at North Salem (Ore.) High School, but even then took an interest in the coaching side, assisting her high school pitching coach with private lessons by working with the younger pitchers.  In college, she played for a season at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, then transferred to Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Ore., and earned Junior College All-America honors as a sophomore.

Hollen’s coaching career started in 2004 with a year as an assistant softball coach at Chemeketa.  She served as the varsity softball coach at Stayton (Ore.) High School in 2005-06 while completing her bachelor of science degree in history at Western Oregon University, which she received in 2006.  She then returned to Chemeketa as the co-head coach for the 2007 season.  After attending the Willamette University College of Law, she spent a year as a law clerk in the office of the Marion County District Attorney, but decided to return to coaching when the George Fox position became available.

In announcing the hiring of Hollen, George Fox director of athletics Craig Taylor observed that “those of us on the search committee were all impressed with Jessica’s eagerness and enthusiasm, as well as her desire to build a program that honors the Lord. We believe she is a good fit for this university, and look forward to a long association between her and George Fox.”

Hollen is married to John Hollen, a former baseball player at Corban College, who serves as her assistant coach.  During her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities such as skiing and camping.  The Hollens are members of the Newberg Foursquare Church. 

Jessica Hollen’s Coaching Ledger

GFU Milestones

1st win - 5-4 vs. Eastern Oregon, 2/20/2009

Hollen vs. All GFU Opponents