Troy University Athletics announced the hiring of new softball pitching coach Elizabeth Hightower on June 24. 

Hightower is currently a professional softball player with the Florida Vibe and was an All-American pitcher at the University of Florida. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth to our Troy softball family as our new pitching coach,” Troy Coach Eric Newell said. “Her experience as an All-American at Florida, combined with her contributions at Florida Atlantic during the last two seasons, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our program. We’re excited to see her immediate impact on our pitchers and the entire team.”

Hightower is a native of Monticello, Fla., and was an All-State pitcher at Aucilla Christian Academy, where she earned All-State honors twice and was also twice the Florida Class 2A Pitcher of the Year. She went on to become an All-American pitcher at Florida. 

Hightower earned SEC All-Freshman honors in 2019 and was All-SEC and All-American in 2021. She also earned All-Region honors in both 2021 and 2022. For her college career, Hightower held a 3.16 ERA with 427 strikeouts in 561 innings pitched. She held a  57-29 record in the circle with four saves. 

Hightower began her coaching career as the pitching development coordinator at Florida-Atlantic, where she collaborated with the school’s pitching coach on bullpen planning, weekend game preparation and pitch call strategies. She also assisted in recruiting, helping FAU earn a No. 1-ranked transfer class in 2023. 

“Elizabeth is a rising star in this profession,” head softball coach at FAU, Jordan Clark, said. “Her ability to relate while challenging pitchers is next level. She is a great coach but an even better person. I am beyond proud and excited for everyone to see Elizabeth shine.”

Hightower has also continued her playing career as a professional softball player first with Athletes Unlimited and now with the Florida Vibe. So far during the 2025 summer season, Hightower has pitched 16 innings and struck out eight batters, while holding a 2.739 ERA. 

“I am deeply grateful to Coach Newell for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading his pitching staff,” Hightower said. “I look forward to contributing to a program that values excellence, integrity, and family values. I am excited to get this season going.”