Abilene ISD announced Monday that Dottie Hawthorne has been named the next head coach for the Cooper High School softball program. Hawthorne brings nearly 20 years of coaching experience and a history of success on the diamond to CHS.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Hawthorne to the Cooper High School family,” Principal Jon Patrick said. “With over 200 career wins, Coach Hawthorne brings not only a record of competitive excellence, but a deep commitment to empowering young women on and off the field. Just as impressive is her impact in the classroom, where she inspires students as an exceptional English teacher and role model.”
Hawthorne currently serves as head softball coach, girls athletics coordinator, and English teacher at Pampa High School in Pampa ISD. Under her leadership, Hawthorne’s teams have made multiple regional playoff appearances. Her most recent team featured five senior student-athletes who are now continuing their softball careers at the collegiate level. Prior to her time in Pampa, Hawthorne served as head softball coach in Eustace ISD, where she led the program to its first-ever playoff appearance.
“I am so excited and grateful for the opportunity to lead the Cooper Cougars as head softball coach,” Hawthorne said. “Ultimately, my goal for these young ladies is for them to leave the program as strong, independent, confident young women that will be successful in anything they do.”
Hawthorne earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Cameron University. As a collegiate athlete, she played softball at Hillsdale Freewill College and The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.