Golden Eagles Round Out 2026 Softball Staff

Head Coach of Southern Miss Softball Natalie Poole has announced two additions as well as a promotion within the coaching staff for the 2026 season.

Peyton Elzey and Caleb Toshcoff will be joining the staff as assistants while third-year assistant coach Matt Elzey will be promoted to the team’s offensive coach and recruiting coordinator.

Peyton Elzey arrives back in Hattiesburg after working under Coach Poole in a developmental role in the fall of 2024. For the 2025 season, she spent the campaign as a graduate assistant for Coastal Carolina University. The Chanticleers finished with a 42-19 record as they clinched the Sun Belt Tournament Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance.

“Peyton worked with our team for a few months last fall and I am happy to have her returning as a full-time assistant,” Coach Poole said. “She will help assist in assembling and training our pitching staff. We worked really well together last year, and I am looking forward to working alongside her again.”

Toshcoff arrives in Hattiesburg after three seasons with Austin Peay, one year as a graduate assistant and two as an assistant coach for the team. Prior to working for the Governors, Toshcoff worked as a student manager at the University of Alabama for four seasons, being a part of two trips to the Women’s College World Series with the Crimson Tide.

“We are really excited to welcome Caleb to our staff,” Poole said. “He has good knowledge of the game and great experience in working with the defensive side of our sport, specifically with outfielders and catchers… Caleb will bring great energy to our staff and has high expectations for success.”

Matt Elzey will take on the responsibilities of offensive coach and recruiting coordinator for the Golden Eagles starting in 2026. Poole was excited to have Elzey promoted.

“Matt will be a great leader for our offense, from development to in-game approach,” said Coach Poole. “He also has great connections in the travel ball community and has seen the types of student-athletes that it takes to succeed in the Sun Belt.”

The Golden Eagles will enter the 2026 campaign with an all-new coaching staff and newfound chemistry. Southern Miss fans have a lot to be excited about as the Golden Eagles continue to build!

Author administrator Kellen Walker