LA JOLLA, Calif. - In recognition for guiding the UC San Diego softball program to a second-place national finish in 2012, the team's personnel has been named the Division II West Region Coaching Staff of the Year by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA).

Head coach Patti Gerckens, along with assistants Jessica Millsap, Allison May, Nichole Willis, Sara Robinson and Katrin Gabriel, led UCSD to a 45-23 overall mark, tying the school record for victories. The Tritons advanced to the national championship game in Louisville, Ky., and finished the season just one win shy of securing a second consecutive title.

"It's a great honor to be chosen as the West Region Coaching Staff of the Year by our colleagues," said Gerckens, who won her 500th career game in 2012. "I am blessed to have such a great coaching staff." 

After placing fourth in the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) regular season standings, UCSD won its first-ever league tournament championship to earn an automatic berth in the NCAA postseason. Proving resilient, the Tritons survived nine consecutive elimination games during their NCAA run to the national championship contest.

Pitcher Camille Gaito and outfielder Kris Lesovsky, both seniors, garnered All-America accolades. Three Tritons were dubbed All-West Region and six were named to All-CCAA teams.

- UCSDtritons.com -