Nicki Cardosa is national assistant coach of the year

Wayland High School teacher and coach Nicki Cardosa has been selected by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association as High School Assistant Coach of the Year.

Cardosa earned the same award at the state level earlier this year.

Head Wayland softball coach Cheri Ritz, said “Nicki Cardosa has worked toward this victory by being very humble and success driven. I appreciate Nicki everyday and how she is always willing to share success with our team and shares love for our players and, simply put, the reason she has risen to the top honor.

“This is an impressive achievement with nearly 1800 other successful coaches in attendance. She was not only Michigan’s top softball assistant in 2023, but now was recognized as the national award winner!”

Ritz is Cardosa’s aunt and the two have worked together since Cardosa joined the faculty. They have guided Wayland to two Division 2 state championships.

“This shows her hard work and  dedication to Wayland Union Schools,” Ritz added. “I have so much joy, gratitude and love, with Nicki Cardosa as my assistant coach. This is an incredible milestone…”