Erica Ayers Position: Assistant Coach Experience: 6th Year

Erica Ayers, a former Patriot player, is now in her eighth season as an assistant coach for the Mason softball team.

Ayers, who assists in all aspects of the program, focuses her on-field efforts on helping the team with its hitting, as well as working with the infield in all aspects of its game.

"I do not know if there are enough words to say all the things I need to say about Erica Ayers," said Mason softball head coach Joe Verbanic. "She has been a blessing in so many ways to this team. Her confidence on the softball field, along with her ability to teach are just fantastic.

"She wants to learn, does not shy away from any kind of work and she can do anything I ask her to do. We would not be anywhere near as far along as we are without her and that just scratches the surface of what I can tell you about Erica; she means a lot."

Before becoming a part of the coaching staff, Ayers had an outstanding four seasons as a player at Mason. She started 189 games and finished her career with a .286 batting average, 25 doubles and 66 RBI. During her senior season, Ayers led the 2000 team with a .343 batting average, and was second on the squad with 25 RBI.

She holds the Mason single-season record for games played (63) and times being hit-by-pitch (16), and is fourth in hits in a season with 59.

Ayers also has coaching experience with ASA summer league teams, and is a past member of the Mason athletics event management staff, as she used to help with game day operations for many Patriot sports, including women's volleyball and basketball.