The University of Redlands and Bulldog Athletics excitedly announce the hiring of Jose Ortega as the Head Softball Coach for the Bulldogs. His official start date is October 15.
"I want to thank [Director of Athletics] Jeff Martinez for this amazing opportunity. I am honored to have been selected to lead the softball program at the University of Redlands," commented Ortega. "I am excited to get on campus, meet the 2019 softball club, and get to work! Go Dawgs!"
Most recently, Ortega served as the Associate Head Coach at nearby Riverside City College to complete his 10-year tenure as a Tiger. In addition to providing on-field instruction as a hitting and infield coach, he managed all aspects of offense, including coaching third base. He brings experience with fundraising, practice planning, recruiting, and scouting, as well as teaching Kinesiology courses.
With Ortega's involvement, RCC earned a spot in the playoffs each season and reached the Super Regionals seven out of 10 seasons. The Tigers also advanced to the State Championships on three occasions and captured two Orange Empire Conference titles.
During the 2015 and 2016 seasons, Ortega worked as an assistant coach at UC Riverside, specifically as the hitting coach while helping to develop the infield and catchers. With his contributions, the Highlanders broke multiple offensive school records, including batting average, hits, runs scored and, most significantly, wins.
Ortega began his coaching career in professional baseball as an infield coach with the Cleveland Indians. After playing for the organization for two seasons, he moved into this new role, which in many ways redirected his career path.
As a student-athlete, he attended Riverside Community College before transferring to the University of San Diego, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He later completed his master's in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University – Irvine.
"I have no doubt that Jose's successful coaching experience and his passion for an overall educational experience for his student-athletes will allow him to succeed at the University of Redlands," Martinez stated. "I am confident that he will continue the rich traditions of the Bulldog softball program."