Macomb, IL- The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) has announced that former Western Illinois University head softball coach Kathy Veroni has been named the recipient of the 2025 NFCA Humanitarian Award. The honor recognizes Veroni's lasting impact on the sport of softball and her remarkable dedication to the Macomb community.

Veroni guided the Leathernecks from 1971 to 2005, amassing 869 wins, 11 conference titles, five AIAW national tournament appearances, and three NCAA tournament berths. A true pioneer in women's athletics, she is a member of four halls of fame — the NFCA, Illinois State University, Western Illinois University, and Illinois ASA.

Beyond her time at Western, Veroni's influence has extended throughout the coaching community. She served the NFCA in multiple leadership roles, including President and Past President, and has been a mentor to countless coaches and student-athletes across the country. In Macomb, she founded and coached the Macomb Magic softball program, while also leading youth clinics and championship-winning teams that helped grow the sport locally.

Her service extends far beyond the diamond. Veroni is an active Master Gardener and a driving force behind Growing Illinois Food Together (GIFT), where she has helped construct raised garden beds and community spaces that support local education and food security. The garden donates more than 2,000 pounds of fresh produce each year to area food pantries. She also serves on the Macomb Park District Commission, contributes to the VIBE organization — which has raised over $800,000 for local nonprofits — and is a proud supporter of the Golden Apple Society at McDonough District Hospital.

Athletic Director Paul A. Bubb shared his thoughts on Veroni's accomplishment, 

"Western Illinois University has always had some extraordinary coaches, and to see them still receiving accolades is not a surprise to me. Kathy Veroni puts her all into everything she does, and this is a well-deserved recognition for her work," said Paul A. Bubb, Director of Athletics."

" I am very honored and humbled to receive this award from the National Fastpitch Coaches Association," Said Coach Kathy Veroni. 

Veroni will be recognized in person at the NFCA Awards Brunch during the 2025 NFCA Convention in Las Vegas on December 13.