Myrtle Beach, SC, January 12, 2026
Coastal Carolina University’s softball program is thriving under the guidance of an all-alumni coaching staff. Amanda Daneker, Kassidy Smith, and Kiana Quolas leverage their personal experiences as former student-athletes to foster mentorship and growth. This approach not only strengthens the team’s foundation but also enhances community engagement and athletic development, showcasing a model for sustained success in collegiate sports. The program’s focus on holistic development and character building contributes to the growth of future leaders and athletes, positively impacting the local economy through sports tourism.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Alumni Leadership: Coastal Softball’s Winning Formula
Coastal Carolina University’s softball program is charting a course for future success, anchored by a unique coaching staff composed entirely of former Chanticleer student-athletes. This commitment to homegrown talent not only strengthens the program’s foundation but also offers a powerful model for athletic development and community engagement within the region.
The return of Amanda Daneker, Kassidy Smith, and Kiana Quolas to lead the Coastal softball staff underscores a commitment to continuity and shared values. Each woman brings a deep understanding of the university’s athletic culture, having once worn the teal and black themselves. Their collective experience fosters an environment of mentorship, drawing on personal perseverance and a clear vision for cultivating the next generation of student-athletes.
This initiative highlights the enduring impact of a robust university athletics program, demonstrating how successful cultivation of talent can cycle back into the community, enriching both the sport and the local economy. It emphasizes the power of private initiative and dedication, as these alumni chose to return and invest their expertise where their athletic journeys began.
The “Built by Coastal” Advantage in Action
A Deep-Rooted Understanding of the Chanticleer Spirit
The decision to staff the Coastal Carolina softball program with alumni coaches provides an unparalleled advantage. Amanda Daneker, who transitioned to coaching after a college injury, expressed a profound connection to the program, stating her understanding of what it feels like to wear “Coastal” across one’s chest. Her journey from player to volunteer, and subsequently to associate head coach, exemplifies a dedication to the institution that goes beyond a mere job title. Daneker initially planned a career in accounting but realized her passion for coaching while assisting with catchers during her redshirt junior year.
Kassidy Smith’s path back involved a brief departure from softball after graduation, working in urgent care before a volunteer coaching opportunity at Coastal drew her back. She considers Coastal her “home”. This personal history among the coaching staff allows for a genuine connection with current players, offering relatable experiences and fostering an authentic team culture built on shared identity and the value of competition. Kiana Quolas, a former two-time Big South Conference Pitcher of the Year and a 2023 inductee into the Sasser Hall of Fame, gained extensive coaching experience across various institutions before her return as Senior Associate Head Coach. Her diverse background, combined with her deep roots at Coastal, provides a comprehensive and competitive edge to the staff.
Cultivating Talent and Community Identity
Shaping Athletes and Citizens
The coaching philosophies of Daneker, Smith, and Quolas emphasize not only athletic prowess but also personal growth and confidence. This holistic approach to student-athlete development aligns with a commitment to producing well-rounded individuals who will contribute positively to society, reflecting the importance of individual initiative within a supportive community framework. The trio aims to instill values of mentorship and build a strong community around the program, guiding future players to grow both on and off the field. This focus on character and resilience is a testament to the principles of responsible growth and self-reliance, which are vital for sustained success in sports and in life.
Such a model encourages current players to see a potential future within the Coastal Carolina system, whether as athletes or, eventually, as leaders themselves. This continuity helps in building a strong program identity, attracting talent that values tradition and a supportive environment. The program aims to ensure players leave feeling supported, challenged, and confident, with a sense of having a second home at Coastal.
Broader Athletic Excellence: The Volleyball Example
Sun Belt Conference Dominance and National Recognition
The success of the softball program’s alumni leadership mirrors a broader commitment to excellence across Coastal Carolina athletics. The women’s volleyball program, for instance, recently showcased its strength within the Sun Belt Conference. Junior Jalyn Stout was named to the 2025 All-Sun Belt Conference First Team. Stout’s exceptional performance also earned her AVCA All-Southeast Region Honors in December 2025, further solidifying Coastal Carolina’s presence on the national collegiate stage. These achievements highlight the university’s ability to foster top-tier talent and compete at high levels, driven by dedicated coaching and student-athlete commitment.
Other Coastal Carolina volleyball players also garnered recognition in 2025, with Stout leading a trio of Chanticleers on the SBC All-Conference Teams. Samantha Wunsch leads the team in scoring, averaging 3.98 points and 3.30 kills per set, demonstrating the depth of talent within the program. Such consistent performance across multiple sports contributes to a vibrant athletic culture, inspiring students and fans alike and showcasing the results of sustained effort and strategic investment.
Economic Contributions to Myrtle Beach
Fueling Local Growth Through Sports Tourism
Successful university athletic programs, including Coastal Carolina athletics, serve as significant economic drivers for the Myrtle Beach SC sports community and the broader region. The consistent performance of teams like softball and volleyball, bolstered by dedicated coaching and student-athlete development, draws spectators, families, and prospective students to the area. This influx translates directly into increased activity for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments, embodying free-market growth.
Each home game, tournament, and recruiting visit represents a measurable economic impact, supporting local jobs and generating tax revenue. The positive visibility generated by successful teams also enhances the university’s reputation, attracting more students and further stimulating the local economy through responsible growth and community self-reliance. The commitment to excellence within university programs acts as a catalyst for broader regional prosperity, showcasing the direct benefits of investing in competitive athletic endeavors.
Investment in Future Generations
Supporting Student-Athlete Development and Program Strength
The ongoing success of Coastal Carolina’s athletic programs, from college softball to volleyball, is a direct result of strategic investments in facilities, coaching staff, and student support. This includes resources for academic advising, athletic training, and leadership development, which are crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. Private investment, alongside university funding, plays a vital role in enhancing these programs, allowing them to provide competitive scholarships and state-of-the-art training environments.
The return of alumni coaches is a clear example of how past investments in student-athletes yield future dividends, creating a self-sustaining cycle of excellence. These individuals, shaped by their Coastal experiences, now contribute to shaping the next generation, fostering a culture of high standards and competitive drive. This virtuous cycle demonstrates the value of long-term planning and dedicated community support for athletic and academic endeavors.
Conclusion
The “Built by Coastal” approach, particularly evident in the softball program’s alumni-led coaching staff, signifies a powerful and effective strategy for sustained athletic success and community enrichment. By leveraging the deep institutional knowledge and personal commitment of former student-athletes like Amanda Daneker, Kassidy Smith, and Kiana Quolas, Coastal Carolina University reinforces its identity and fosters a legacy of excellence. This model, combined with achievements across other sports such as the volleyball team’s Sun Belt Conference recognition for Jalyn Stout, highlights the significant contributions of Coastal Carolina athletics to both the competitive landscape and the economic vitality of the Myrtle Beach area.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to engage with Coastal Carolina athletics, attending games and supporting student-athlete development. Your involvement directly contributes to the continued success of these programs and the positive impact they have on our community and state.
FAQ Section
- Who are the alumni coaches leading the Coastal Carolina softball staff?
- The Coastal Carolina softball staff is led by alumni coaches Amanda Daneker, Kassidy Smith, and Kiana Quolas.
- What roles do Amanda Daneker, Kassidy Smith, and Kiana Quolas hold?
- Amanda Daneker and Kassidy Smith are Associate Head Coaches, and Kiana Quolas is the Senior Associate Head Coach for Coastal Carolina softball.
- When did Jalyn Stout receive All-Sun Belt Conference First Team honors?
- Coastal Carolina junior Jalyn Stout was named to the 2025 All-Sun Belt Conference First Team on November 19, 2025.
- What other honors did Jalyn Stout receive?
- Jalyn Stout earned AVCA All-Southeast Region Honors in December 2025.
- Who leads the Coastal Carolina volleyball team in scoring?
- Samantha Wunsch leads the Coastal Carolina volleyball team in scoring, averaging 3.98 points and 3.30 kills per set.
Feature Table: Coastal Carolina Athletics Highlights
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Coastal Softball Alumni Coaches | Amanda Daneker, Kassidy Smith, Kiana Quolas |
| Kiana Quolas Honors | Two-time Big South Conference Pitcher of the Year; 2023 Sasser Hall of Fame inductee |
| Jalyn Stout (Volleyball) | 2025 All-Sun Belt Conference First Team; December 2025 AVCA All-Southeast Region Honors |
| Samantha Wunsch (Volleyball) Leading Stats | 3.98 points/set, 3.30 kills/set |
Now Happening on X
- @CollegiateMb (Jan 11, 2026): Myrtle Beach Collegiate Post-Grad Academy is at the AFCA Convention, offering information on prospects, portal players, and 2026 recruits to college coaches. View on X
- @ConnorEaregood (Jan 10, 2026): A summary of new NCAA rules changes includes allowances for exhibition games, annual foreign trips, expanded summer access, more recruiting staff, and unofficial visits for high school freshmen. View on X
- @CoachSWach (Jan 9, 2026): Advice on building a program by evaluating available student-athletes, recruiting them, developing skills, and retaining through relationships and resources to win on and off the field. View on X
- @CoachBlueford (Jan 6, 2026): As a college recruiter, admissions, and HS coach, sharing insights on helping students navigate the recruiting process, highlighting its value for high school coaches. View on X
- @TheSunNews (Jan 5, 2026): Article on why South Carolina is enhancing its scouting department by hiring from the NFL to improve talent evaluation. View on X
- @briankcrawford5 (Jan 7, 2026): Discussing the growing wave of recruiting for all levels, urging high school and middle school players to take notes and prepare seriously for the next level. View on X
- @CoachNickDavis (Jan 7, 2026): Recruiting by position and inviting athletes to fill out a questionnaire, noting that over 300 are already visiting campus ahead of Signing Day. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Coastal Carolina University Enhances Campus Facilities
Coastal Carolina Football Concludes Season with Bowl Defeat
SC High School Sports Undergo Major Realignment
Chanticleer Athletics Sets New Standards in Academic Excellence
Coastal Carolina University Enhances Athletic Facilities
Chanticleer Scholars Achieve Academic Excellence
Chanticleers Achieve New Academic Milestone
Myrtle Beach Education: Choice, Growth, & Community Strength
Chanticleers Battle Hard Against JMU in Sun Belt Opener
Duke University Triumphs Over NC State, 45-33
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
