Duke softball has officially named Savannah Pola as its new director of operations, as announced by head coach Marissa Young. Pola arrives at Duke with a robust background from UCLA, where she excelled both as a player and a graduate assistant. Her experience in a World Series-level program and her strong commitment to excellence align with the team's goals. Pola expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Duke's culture and support student-athletes effectively.

By the Numbers
  • Pola started in 222 of 233 career games at UCLA, predominantly at second base and as a designated player.
  • She recorded a .350 batting average with 135 RBIs and 159 runs scored, placing her among UCLA's all-time leaders.
Yes, But

While Pola brings significant accolades from her time at UCLA, the transition to a new program can be challenging, requiring adaptation to different coaching styles and player dynamics.

State of Play
  • Pola's addition marks a strategic move to strengthen Duke softball's operational framework.
  • The program is currently focused on enhancing its player development and support systems.
What's Next

As Pola integrates into her role, her immediate focus will be on supporting the coaching staff and enhancing the student-athlete experience, which could positively impact team performance in the upcoming season.

Bottom Line

Savannah Pola's extensive playing background and commitment to excellence can significantly benefit Duke softball, helping cultivate a winning culture while supporting student-athletes effectively.