“Ever since first grade I knew I wanted to be a college softball coach,” she said. “Every Halloween from first grade to fourth grade I dressed up like a coach. I wore a polo and a clipboard and a whistle, and I always kept track of that vision.
“I think every assistant coach wants to become a head coach in the long run of things. Some people fill into that role quicker than others, and these are the cards I was fortunate to be dealt.”
Wichman began her coaching career two years ago as an assistant for Loeser at the University of Charleston. Last year she helped lead the Golden Eagles to a school-record 50 wins and a berth in the NCAA Division II College World Series.
“Being an assistant this past fall, Justine brings a smooth transition to the team for spring. Her knowledge and experience, coupled with her love for the game and her ability to connect with the student-athletes, make her a great leader,” said Joylynn Brown, Wright State associate athletic director.
Wichman said the turbulent start to her tenure at WSU has been eased by the familiarity assistant coaches Dave Brittingham and Jess Gorman have with the program.
Brittingham is entering his 12th season with the Raiders, while Gorman is beginning her second as a volunteer assistant after starring for WSU as an outfielder from 2012-15.
“Coach Dave has a good handle on what they’ve done in the past, and his knowledge for the game and hands-on experience have been phenomenal to have,” Wichman said. “And this is Jess Gorman’s second season, and she’s been a great help as well.
“So not only do we have players with talent, we have great people surrounding them,” she added.
Wright State went 37-23 last year and fell just short of an NCAA Tournament berth, losing to Valparaiso 5-4 in eight innings in the Horizon League championship game.
The Raiders only lost three seniors off that squad, so Wichman said she expects the team to contend for the title again this spring.
WSU opens the season Feb. 10 against Wichita State in Houston.
“We have a lot of great seniors and juniors who are going to help in that leadership role, and they’ve been real accepting of me since I got here,” she said. “We’re just ready for the season to get here and continue to win and prove to people Wright State is still in a good place.”
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