Park City High School Girls Softball team welcomes new coach and culture

Head Coach Ashley Manusos with the PCHS girls softball team. Photo: Ashley Manusos

Under Ashley Manusos, PCHS prioritizes community and sport

PARK CITY, Utah — Ashley Manusos has recently taken the helm as the head coach of Park City High School’s Girls Softball team, bringing a background in both sports and military service. Manusos, who previously coached college softball in Iowa and club softball in Washington, has also served in the Washington National Guard. She now juggles her Active Guard Reserve duty with her current roles, which include her work at College Athlete Advantage, where she aids aspiring college athletes in navigating the recruiting process.

Describing the sports culture in Park City, Manusos noted, “Softball isn’t as prominent here. This is a second and third, maybe fourth sport for some kids,” which presents a challenge when building a team dynamic.

Despite this, Manusos is focused on building a strong team culture, with her coaching philosophy centered around gradual improvement. “Brick by brick” is the team’s motto this season, emphasizing small improvements that contribute to larger goals. Manusos explains, “The goal is, if we get 1% better every day, then we’re headed in the right direction. If we do the little things, the big things will transition.”

One of the highlights of Manusos’ tenure so far is the planning of the “Strikeout Cancer” event, a cause close to her heart. She is passionate about involving her team in community service, aiming to teach them the value of giving back. “We’ve had some kids on the team, including myself, affected by family members or friends that have passed from cancer,” Manusos shared. The event also seeks to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, with a goal of surpassing $5,000. “It’s a way to give back to the institute that’s close to us, but also for them to realize the importance of that this isn’t just a, you know, we show up and we play ball. It’s learning how to be better humans, learning how to give back to your community.”