Samantha Ricketts, head softball coach at Mississippi State University, has been named head coach of the American Samoa women’s national softball team, the American Samoan Softball Association announced Tuesday.
American Samoa won gold at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau last July and aims to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Ricketts’s appointment signifies a personal connection to her heritage, as her mother, Carol, traces her lineage to Leone on the island, according to the association.
Since arriving at Mississippi State, Ricketts has fostered a strong connection to Samoan athletes, attracting seven American Samoan players to the program since 2016, including current players Kiarra Sells and Kalani Sells. Her ties to the island and its culture have helped build a pipeline of talent for the national team, the association said.
“To be entrusted with leading Team American Samoa is a tremendous honor and a responsibility I carry with deep pride and humility,” Ricketts said. “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.”
Ricketts brings extensive coaching experience, entering her 15th season of full-time coaching and her 12th at Mississippi State. She has guided the Bulldogs to their first NCAA Super Regional and a program-high ranking. She has coached 16 players who advanced to professional careers and has led multiple players to All-Region honors in recent seasons, including a school-record six in 2025.
The Mississippi State coach is nearing her 200th career win and recently broke the school record with her 45th win over a ranked opponent last fall. Her appointment is seen as significant for American Samoa’s softball community, with ASSA President Fa’asao Sili emphasizing her achievements and dedication.
Ricketts will be the second Mississippi State head coach to lead a national team, joining former coach Jay Miller. Former MSU All-American Iyhia McMichael also coaches the U.S. U-15 girls national team. Additionally, 16 Bulldogs have represented six countries internationally, including assistant coach Zac Shaw, who captains the U.S. men’s national team.
She will oversee American Samoa’s Olympic qualification efforts, beginning with the Canada Cup in Surrey, British Columbia, from July 6-12, followed by the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City from July 28 to Aug. 3. The qualifiers will be determined by the 2027 WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup, regional championships, and a last-chance tournament.
Mississippi State opens its 2026 season Thursday at the Getterman Classic in Waco, Texas, facing Baylor at 6:30 p.m. CT. The Bulldogs’ home opener is scheduled for 4 p.m. Feb. 10 against Southern Miss.
