DAVENPORT, Iowa -- Augie head softball coach Kris Kistler has accepted a role of Senior Woman Administrator/Director of Compliance at St. Ambrose University and will be departing Augustana after 23 seasons leading the Vikings softball team. In her role at St. Ambrose, Kistler will be responsible for NAIA eligibility and oversee team compliance with NAIA regulations. As the SWA, she will onboard new hires, assure gender equity, and promote student-athlete well-being. She will also coordinate game day activities.  

"I want to thank Kris for her outstanding work at Augustana the last 20-plus years," said Director of Athletics Mike Zapolski. "She has impacted many student-athletes during her coaching career here and the achievements of the Vikings' softball program are a direct result of her tireless efforts. Kris has been searching for a full-time athletics administrator position, and the opportunity at St. Ambrose was a natural fit and she will quickly make her mark with the Bees."

Kistler posted an overall record of 566-355-3 at Augustana and is the all-time winningest coach in Viking softball history. She leaves Augustana with 16 20-win seasons and eight exceeding 30 or more victories.

Augustana will launch a national search for its next head softball coach.