Softball Coach Jay Biesterfeld retires after 17 years

The Providence Catholic High School softball program has been led for the last 17 years by Jay Biesterfeld, who has announced his retirement after this past season after leading the Celtics to a regional win.

During his tenure at Providence Catholic, Biesterfeld has coached his teams to a record of 358 wins and 211 losses, with a 629% winning record. In 2012 and 2018, he led the Celtics to a 3rd place finish in state. As of this season, he has won five regional titles in 2012, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2021 and coached three seasons with 29 wins.

In addition, his teams have been GCAC Red Conference Champions in 2019 and Sectional Champions in 2012 and 2019.

Over the past 17 seasons alumni have gone onto play softball at the collegiate level for many different schools, including: University of Arkansas, Loyola University, DePaul University, Florida Atlantic University, Lewis University, Oklahoma State University, Saint Leo University, Carson-Newman University, Colgate University, Olivet Nazarene, Eastern Illinois, Carthage College, Lawrence University, St Mary’s University, Lake Forest College and many others.

“Coaching at Providence over the last 17 years has been an incredible experience,” says Biesterfeld. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with talented athletes and coaches and be a part of a successful program at all levels. I’ve been blessed to lead athletes with so much heart and passion for the game. This year was such a different year and yet these young women came out to play, worked hard all season, and ended as regional champions. It was not an easy decision but it is the right time for me to move onto a new adventure. I have no doubt that the girls returning as seniors next year will lead, encourage, and help build the program for those coming onto the varsity team. Thank you to all of the Celtic players and families for a tremendous experience the last 17 years.”

“Jay has been a true leader and exemplary coach at Providence Catholic High School,” said Doug Ternik, the school’s Athletic Director. “We thank him for his continued leadership, his dedication to the program, and wish him well in the future.” Ternik announced that he will conduct a search for the next softball coach in the soon.