CLEVELAND, Miss. – Delta State University Director of Athletics Mike Kinnison announced the hiring of Chad Cribbs as Head Softball Coach for the Lady Statesmen.
Cribbs joins Delta State with a successful background in high school and national travel softball, bringing experience in championship-level competition, player development, recruiting, and program leadership.
In his new role, Cribbs will provide leadership and oversight for all aspects of the Lady Statesmen softball program, including recruiting, student-athlete development, competition preparation, academic support, and program operations.
"Coach Cribbs brings an impressive combination of championship success, player development experience, and organizational leadership to Delta State. He has built a reputation for developing student-athletes, creating competitive cultures, and building strong relationships throughout the recruiting landscape. We are excited to welcome Chad and his family to Delta State and are confident he will lead the next successful chapter of Lady Statesmen Softball." — Mike Kinnison, Director of Athletics
Most recently, Cribbs served as Head Softball Coach at Keller High School in Keller, Texas, where he led one of the state's premier programs to consecutive district championships and multiple deep postseason runs. During his tenure, Keller captured the 2024 Undefeated District Championship and advanced to the Regional Finals, followed by a 2025 District Championship and Regional Semifinals appearance. His success earned him recognition as the 2024 Fort Worth Star-Telegram Coach of the Year and membership on the 2025 District 4-6A Coaching Staff of the Year.
Prior to becoming head coach, Cribbs spent several years building a strong foundation at Keller High School as an assistant coach while also serving as a teacher and mentor within Keller ISD. Throughout his career, he has established a reputation for developing student-athletes both on and off the field while fostering competitive, disciplined, and team-oriented cultures.
In addition to his high school experience, Cribbs has extensive involvement in elite travel softball. He has coached and developed athletes competing at the national level while helping numerous student-athletes navigate the collegiate recruiting process and pursue opportunities at the next level.
Cribbs also brings valuable organizational leadership experience through his work as co-owner of Texas Grit Athletics, where he helped oversee the growth and operation of a multi-team softball organization. His background in strength and conditioning further complements his coaching experience and reflects a holistic approach to athlete development.
"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the Lady Statesmen softball program and become part of the Delta State family. Delta State has a rich athletic tradition, and I'm excited to build relationships with our student-athletes, alumni, and supporters while developing a championship culture rooted in hard work, accountability, and pride. My family and I are eager to become part of the Cleveland community and begin building something special together." — Chad Cribbs
Cribbs earned a Master of Arts in Sports Management from the University of Alabama and a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from Jacksonville State University.
He and his wife, Talina, are the proud parents of three daughters, Cambree, Tinslee, and Calliee.
