Kalamazoo College Softball Coaching Staff

Mike Garoutte
Head Coach

Kalamazoo College named Michael Garoutte (pronounced Ga-Root) head softball coach on Aug. 9, 2007.

Garoutte came to Kalamazoo College from Arizona where he served as the co-head coach at Boulder Creek High School this past season. In one season, Garoutte helped improve Boulder Creek from three wins in 2006 to an Arizona 5A state playoff qualifier in 2007.

Garoutte coached at NCAA Division II Central Washington University from 2003-2006. He was the first assistant coach in 2003 and 2004 before being promoted to associate head coach for the 2005 and 2006 seasons.

“I am excited to become part of a great academic community at Kalamazoo College,” Garoutte said. “I look forward to building a successful program, instilling pride and tradition in Hornet Softball and establishing Hornet Softball as an integral part of the community of Kalamazoo.”

“Kalamazoo College is a great opportunity for me and my wonderful family to be a part of something that is very special.” Garoutte added.

“I look forward to Mike joining our staff,” said Kristen Smith, Kalamazoo College’s Director of Athletics. “His experience and abilities will help the softball program compete at a high level."

In 2003, Garoutte helped lead Central Washington University to its first-ever winning conference record. In 2004, the Wildcats recorded their first-ever winning season overall and set a school record for most wins.

As associate head coach at CWU, Garoutte oversaw seven academic all-conference players in 2005 while breaking the previous year’s mark for most team wins. In 2006, the Wildcats set eight new team offensive records and led the nation in turning double plays.

Garoutte was the assistant softball coach at Yuma (Ariz.) High School from 1999-2001, helping lead the team to three consecutive conference championships and state playoff appearances. From 1995-1998, Garoutte captured three consecutive league championships as head coach of an ASA women’s fastpitch team in Washington State.

Garoutte holds a bachelor’s degree in biology education from Central Washington University (1998). He is currently completing a master’s degree in exercise science.

Garoutte played competitive fastpitch softball in the U.S. military from 1988-1991. He holds membership in the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and is a One-Star Master Coach.