Caldwell University Athletics

Jackie Velardi, who played from 2004-07 for coach Dean Johnson, played a significant role in Caldwell’s run to the 2004 College World Series, batting .336 with three home runs and 20 RBIs. Velardi turned in her best season as a senior in 2007, when she hit .340 with 27 runs and 25 RBIs while earning a spot on the CACC all-Tournament team. During her four seasons at Caldwell, the Cougars won four CACC regular-season titles, three CACC Tournament crowns and an NCAA Northeast Region championship, while compiling an overall record of 156-51. An all-league first team selection in 2005, Velardi batted .299 and amassed 162 hits and 95 RBIs in 203 career games. She also served as Johnson's assistant coach for more than a decade, helping a new generation of Cougars reach NCAA Regionals.