Mississippi State University head softball coach Samantha Ricketts has been named the head coach of the American Samoa Womens National Softball Team.
Ricketts will helm the national program simultaneous with her duties at Mississippi State and will lead American Samoa as they seek to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games.
“To be entrusted with leading Team American Samoa is a tremendous honor and a responsibility I carry with deep pride and humility,” Ricketts said in a statement. “This opportunity is about more than LA2028. It’s about building a sustainable pathway that connects our culture, our people and our athletes across generations. I am grateful to the ASSA for the belief they have placed in me, and I am committed to honoring American Samoa through the way we build, compete and grow together.”
Ricketts has familial lineage that traces back to Leone through her mother, Carol.
“As a proud daughter of American Samoa with lineage rooted in the village of Leone, Coach Ricketts’ appointment carries deep meaning for our softball community and our nation.” ASSA president Fa’asao Sili said. “Her journey, accomplishments and dedication to the game serve as an inspiration to our athletes, coaches and young players who aspire to represent American Samoa at the highest level.”
Ricketts will make her American Samoa coaching debut at the Canada Cup in mid-July and will also lead the program in the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City July 28-August 3.
