Julie Boland was named head coach of the Jacksonville State softball program in August following the retirement of Hall of Fame coach Jana McGinnis. A former Gamecock standout and longtime assistant, Boland represents the continuity and culture that have defined Jax State softball for decades. She spent 23 years as an assistant coach under McGinnis and was part of the program in some capacity for 28 of McGinnis’ 31 seasons, contributing to nearly 1,000 career victories. During her time on staff, Boland helped guide the Gamecocks to 15 conference championships and eight NCAA Tournament appearances, playing a vital role in maintaining the program’s championship standard.
A native of Lewisville, Texas, Boland was a four-time all-conference shortstop from 1997 to 2000 in the TAAC/Atlantic Sun. She concluded her playing career with 198 hits, then the second-most in program history, along with 100 RBI, 26 stolen bases, and 142 runs scored — marks that remain among the top totals in school history. As an assistant, she oversaw team operations, recruiting, and worked extensively with hitters and middle infielders. Boland becomes just the third head coach in program history. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education in 2002 and later completed a master’s degree in counseling at Jacksonville State, continuing her long-standing commitment to the university.
