FLORENCE, Ala. (August 26, 2024) – University of North Alabama Director of Athletics Dr. Josh Looney announced a contract extension for head softball coach Ashley Cozart on Monday, adding two more years to her current contract to extend through 2028.
 
Cozart completed her 11th season at UNA in 2024, leading the Lions to a 35-19 overall record. Her 2023 squad reached the Atlantic Sun Conference championship game. Cozart enters her 12th season with a 577-219-1 career coaching record, including a 386-173-1 record at UNA.
 
"Coach Cozart has established a culture of excellence within our softball program and her leadership continues to thrive at UNA," said Looney. "She's built authentic and impactful relationships with her athletes and colleagues, as well as throughout the community at large, that continue to propel UNA Softball forward.  We are thrilled that she's a Lion, and we look forward to Coach Cozart's leadership for years to come."
 
Cozart is the most recent coach to bring a national championship to UNA, winning the NCAA Division II National Title in 2016 with a 60-7 overall record. She was also the 2016 Division II National Coach of the Year and has won five conference coach of the year awards.
 
 In 11 seasons, UNA has never suffered a losing season under Cozart, including six years in Division I. The Lions are 109-56-1 over the last three seasons.
 
"I am so grateful that I have been given the opportunity to lead this program for so many years," said Cozart. "UNA is such a special place where our faculty and staff make the success of our student athletes a priority. Knowing that Josh Looney our athletic director, President Kitts, and all the other administration supports our program so much is a big reason we are able to be successful. This community is what makes our university so special! I cannot think of anywhere else I would rather be than right here in the Shoals. Thank you for this opportunity, it has been an incredible journey, and I am excited for what's ahead."
 
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