BEATRICE, Neb. - Beatrice Public Schools has announced Ashley Ford as the new head softball coach. 

Ford has spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach for the Lady Orange, helping guide the program through one of its most successful stretches in school history, including back-to-back trips to the state championship game. 

A former University of Nebraska softball player and Elkhorn High School graduate, Ford has been involved in the sport for more than 20 years as both a coach and mentor.

She previously served as the head coach at Cozad High School from 2018 to 2023, where she led the Haymakers to three district championships and state tournament appearances, and earned Southwest Conference Coach of the Year honors three times.

She was also inducted into the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame earlier this school year.

“Coach Ford’s combination of playing experience, leadership, and commitment to our students makes her an excellent fit to lead Beatrice softball into the future,” said Beatrice Activities Director Cale Kaiser. “She understands the culture of our program and the expectations that come with being a Beatrice softball player.”

Ford takes over for Gary Lytle, who ended his tenure after seven years at the helm.