Kelly Inouye-Perez Becomes UCLA Softball's All-Time Winningest Coach

Kelly Inouye-Perez made history on February 27, 2026, by becoming the winningest coach in UCLA softball history. This achievement came after the No. 9 Bruins defeated No. 4 Florida 15-12 during the Judi Garman Classic in Fullerton, California, marking her 888th career victory. Inouye-Perez surpassed her mentor, Sue Enquist, who held the previous record with 887 wins and is a Hall of Famer known for leading the Bruins to six NCAA titles from 1989 to 2006.

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Inouye-Perez's coaching career spans 20 seasons, during which she has led the Bruins to two NCAA championships in 2010 and 2019, alongside 11 Women's College World Series appearances. She is notably the only individual in NCAA Division I history to win a national championship as both a player and a coach. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to sustaining UCLA's tradition of excellence, which includes a total of 2,226 wins and 13 national championships, the most in NCAA history.

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The postgame celebration included a poignant moment where Enquist presented Inouye-Perez with a crown adorned with blue gemstones, symbolizing the Bruins' colors. Inouye-Perez expressed her gratitude for the legacy she is part of, stating, "When we talk about the Bruin family, it's real... I’m trying to sustain this tradition of excellence for all those that built this historic program."

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Under Inouye-Perez's leadership, UCLA has produced numerous accolades, including 28 NFCA All-Americans and four players who competed for Team USA in the Olympics. Notable players like Rachel Garcia have achieved significant recognition, including multiple Honda Sport Awards and the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award. Inouye-Perez's coaching staff has also received accolades, including the NFCA West Region Coaching Staff of the Year award in 2025.

Kelly Inouye-Perez Becomes UCLA Softball’s All-Time Winningest Head CoachESPNNew York Post

Inouye-Perez highlighted the importance of her role in shaping strong women through the sport, emphasizing that her goal extends beyond victories to fostering personal growth among her players. She remarked, "We’re proud of the degree, and I’m building strong women... the brand of UCLA softball is still something that brings value."

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While Inouye-Perez's achievements are widely celebrated, some critics argue that the pressure to maintain such a high level of success can lead to burnout among players and staff. However, the prevailing sentiment remains one of pride and admiration for her contributions to the program.

Kelly Inouye-Perez Becomes UCLA Softball’s All-Time Winningest Head Coach

• “A very proud moment and it definitely brought some emotion.” — Kelly Inouye-Perez, UCLA Head Coach

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• “There is no other program that has sustained over six decades like UCLA softball and Lisa and I are doing our best to be able to do that.” — Kelly Inouye-Perez, UCLA Head Coach

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• “When we talk about the Bruin family, it's real, and that's all I'm trying to do is sustain this tradition of excellence for all those that built this historic program,” — Kelly Inouye-Perez, UCLA Head Coach

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Inouye-Perez's milestone victory not only cements her legacy but also reinforces the enduring strength of UCLA softball as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics.

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