MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois University Athletics has announced the hiring of Dwight Sanders as the next head coach of the Leatherneck softball program.
Sanders brings more than a decade of collegiate coaching experience to Macomb, where he has established a reputation for building winning programs, developing student-athletes, and fostering a culture of success on the field and in the classroom.
"We are excited to welcome Dwight and his family to the Leatherneck family," said Interim Director of Athletics Shelby Borchardt. "Dwight brings a clear vision for the program and positive energy. He understands what it takes to build a successful program, and I'm excited to watch him lead our softball team."
Sanders comes to Western Illinois after spending the past three seasons as head coach at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Under his leadership, the Mountain Lions improved each season, culminating in a 33-22 overall record and a 26-18 mark in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play in 2025. UCCS ranked among the nation's top Division II offensive teams in batting average, hits, runs scored, doubles, RBIs, slugging percentage, and stolen bases, while also posting a 3.67 team GPA and earning numerous all-conference and all-academic honors.
Prior to UCCS, Sanders spent two seasons at Fort Lewis College, where he helped elevate the program from 11 wins to back-to-back 20-win seasons while strengthening the team through recruiting, fundraising, facility improvements, and community engagement.
He began his collegiate head coaching career at Otero Junior College, transforming the program into one of the region's best. His teams earned national rankings, produced All-Americans, captured multiple conference honors, and consistently ranked among the nation's top offensive programs while excelling academically.
In 10 seasons as a collegiate head coach, Sanders has compiled a 245-213 career record with seven winning seasons and eight postseason appearances. Throughout his career, he has emphasized player development, accountability, academic success, and community involvement, organizing youth clinics, leading fundraising initiatives, and creating meaningful partnerships at each of his coaching stops.
"I'm incredibly grateful to the Western Illinois search committee for believing in my vision and giving me the opportunity to lead this program," Sanders said. "I see tremendous potential here, and I'm excited to build upon the foundation that's in place. This is an exciting time for Leatherneck Athletics, and I can't wait to get to work with our student-athletes, alumni, and community as we build a championship-caliber program."
Sanders earned both his bachelor's degree in Business Administration and his Master of Business Administration from Colorado State University Pueblo. He is an endorsed hitting and pitching coach through the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and has been an active member of the organization since 2018.
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