Emily Henderson, a 2017 All-American in her sport, has been named new head softball coach at Glenbrook School.
The Journal caught up with Henderson and asked her a few questions about her experience and what’s next for the Apaches’ program.
The Journal: First, congratulations. We know you must be excited. Why don’t you tell our readers a little something about your experience?
Emily: I was born and raised in Stonewall, Louisiana. I started centerfield all four years of high school at North Desoto High School where we won the 2015 & 2016 state championships my junior and senior year. I started my collegiate career at LSU-Eunice. We won the 2017 national championship, and I was awarded 1st team All American as an outfielder and finished fourth in the nation in homeruns my freshman year. My 2018 season at LSU-Eunice we had a 4th place finish at nationals, and I was awarded 1st team all-region, all tournament and academic All American. I transferred to Southeastern Louisiana for a semester to play softball and transitioned to powerlifting at the great Louisiana State University for my last year of eligibility. I qualified for nationals at Penn State, but due to Covid my season was cut short. The past year I have spent at my alma mater volunteer coaching the middle school team along with a travel team associated with the Louisiana Titans providing private hitting and workout instruction to athletes.
The Journal: That’s an impressive resume. So how do you think the transition to high school will be? What are your first steps with the program?
Emily: I’m coming on board at Glenbrook during their transition to compete in LHSAA, and I plan to prepare them for the competition they will face. There is already a state championship tradition with their softball program that I plan on growing and continuing during my time here as head coach. As for first steps, the seeds have already been planted. I plan to water them and plant my own and grow a winning culture not just on the field but in the classroom as well.
The Journal: We can see how important education is to you. Why don’t you tell us a little about why softball is so important to you?
Emily: Softball has given me so many opportunities throughout the years. It’s hard not to love it. Outside of all the championships I have won, I have met some incredible people along the way. At the end of the day, the lights on the field may turn off but the leadership, work ethic and friendships never do. For that, I am forever grateful for this sport and will always give back to it.
The Journal: We at the Webster Parish Journal wish you nothing but success. Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers?
Emily: Joining Glenbrook is a great opportunity for me. I never would have thought I would be in a head coaching position this early in my career, but I have waited for it for what seems like a lifetime. Getting the girls involved with the community and those that give to the school will be a huge step moving forward with this program’s success, and I cannot wait to get started. I am very grateful for Mr. Gladney, Dr. Coyle and athletic director Coach Feaster for allowing me to become part of the Glenbrook coaching staff. Go Apaches!
