Gardner-Webb Signs Bailey Wigness to Contract Extension

Head Softball Coach Signs Extension Following Best Big South Finish in 12 Seasons

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb Head Softball Coach Bailey Wigness has signed a contract extension, the Department of Athletics announced on Tuesday, May 28. This past season, Wigness led the Runnin’ Bulldogs to their highest finish in the Big South since the 2012 season.

“Coach Wigness has GWU Softball on a clear upward trajectory,” shared Gardner-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs. “She inherited a team that went 5-29 in the season prior to her arrival, and each subsequent team since then has exceeded the previous year’s win total. This season, Coach Wigness’ team defeated Big South Conference champ USC Upstate, took series wins over other Big South rivals (Presbyterian, Radford), swept SoCon foes Western Carolina and Mercer, and topped a list of other non-conference opponents that included Indiana, Kent State, Binghamton, Rhode Island, and Delaware. I like the direction we’re moving. I like the confidence we’re building. I like our chances with Coach Wigness at the helm.”

This past season’s success included a 33-20 record overall. This was the winningest record by GWU softball since the 2007 season when the ‘Dawgs posted a record of 35-27. Additionally, the Runnin’ Bulldogs finished fifth overall in the Big South for the highest finish in the conference since the 2012 season.

“Having seen the growth of Coach Wigness and the softball program over the past two seasons, I’m incredibly enthusiastic about the future of the Runnin’ Bulldog softball program,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Andrew T. Goodrich.

For more information on the Gardner-Webb softball team, fans can follow the team on X at @GWUSoftball or on Instagram at gwusoftball.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.