NORTHAMPTON, Mass. - Emily Lopez's path from a Graduate Assistant (GA) at Smith College to becoming a head coach is a compelling story of mentorship, lifelong learning, and the development of efficient systems for success.

Her experiences and insights not only shaped her coaching philosophy but also serve as valuable guidance for aspiring coaches.

For Lopez, the journey begins with Bonnie May, the former Smith softball coach and associate athletic director, whose mentorship left a profound impact on her coaching career.

One piece of advice from May that resonated deeply was the importance of being a lifelong learner, and this wisdom has guided Lopez throughout her coaching journey.

"Coaching requires constant adaptation and growth, and I appreciate Bonnie sharing that with me early in my coaching career," Lopez said.

BALANCING RESPONSIBILITIES

As a GA, Lopez had to juggle various responsibilities, including taking classes, teaching, coaching, and departmental duties. This experience prepared her for the demands of being a head coach, where she is pulled in multiple directions daily.

"Each day, I ground myself in what's important, which is guiding the current team based on our program values," she said.

In her early years as a GA, Lopez worked extensively with hitters, which fueled her passion for offense. Her time in this role helped her gain clarity on what's essential in an offensive approach. While her teaching methods have evolved, the core principles have remained consistent.

Lopez also emphasized the importance of small daily habits, such as dugout organization, in her program. She believes that external organization contributes to internal organization.

"If a player is running around looking for their glove between innings, it does not set them up for success to be ready to make the play when the first ball is hit to them," Lopez explained. "Zipping up our backpacks and putting gloves, water bottles, and helmets in the same place are small details that make a difference."

BUILDING SYSTEMS

For current GAs eyeing a head coaching position, Lopez advises mastering systems for efficiency. Whether it's organizing to-do lists, managing recruiting databases, or planning practices, having efficient systems in place can save time and enhance productivity.

"'Idea stealing' is a big part of the coaching world, so if you don't know where to start, find mentors and lean into learning," she added.

One "life hack" that Lopez still uses as a head coach is the sense of community she cultivated as a GA. Learning from head coaches, administrators, professors, and peer GAs created a strong support system that continues to provide ideas, encouragement, and ongoing learning opportunities.

"While we each coach our own sports and have our own challenges, there is so much that we can learn from each other," Lopez said.

Through her journey, Lopez has embraced the philosophy of showing up every day and doing the best she can with the knowledge she possesses. She understands that decisions may change over time as part of the learning and growing process. She advocates for forgiving past mistakes and maintaining a sense of play and joy in the coaching profession.

"Never lose the sense of 'play' that comes with this job—getting to step on a softball field every day is such a joy," she concluded.

Emily Lopez's evolution from a GA to a head coach is a testament to the power of mentorship, the importance of efficient systems, and the significance of community support. Her experiences and advice serve as a guide for aspiring coaches, emphasizing the need for adaptability, organization, and a lifelong commitment to learning.

With her passion for the game and dedication to her players, Lopez continues to make a lasting impact on the softball program at Smith College.

About Smith Athletics: Smith College is a NCAA Division III member of the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference that sponsors 11 intercollegiate sports. For more information log onto GoSmithBears.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram