HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal-LaGrange University Director of Athletics Clay Biggs has announced the hiring of Julie Thrower as the next head coach of the Trojan softball program. Thrower returns to HLGU with an extensive background in coaching, education, leadership, and student development. Thrower succeeds longtime head coach Dan Hurst, who led the Trojan softball program for 25 years and helped establish a tradition of excellence that became synonymous with HLGU softball. Under Hurst's leadership, the Trojans built a respected and competitive program while impacting countless student-athletes on and off the field through a Christ-centered approach to coaching and mentorship. "We are excited to welcome Julie Thrower to lead our softball program," said Biggs. "Julie brings a tremendous amount of experience as both a coach and educator, but what stood out most throughout the process was her passion for mentoring young women and her alignment with the mission and biblical worldview of Hannibal-LaGrange University. She understands this institution, values the importance of developing the whole student-athlete, and has strong roots in our region that will serve our program well moving forward. "We are also incredibly grateful for the impact Coach Dan Hurst has had on HLGU softball over the past 25 years. The foundation he established and the countless lives he influenced have positioned this program for continued success, and Julie is excited to build upon that legacy." Thrower is currently in her eighth year at Palmyra High School, where she serves as a Physical Education and Health teacher while coaching softball and basketball. Prior to her time at Palmyra, she coached and taught at Highland High School and Bowling Green School District, compiling 13 years of experience in athletics and education. A graduate of Hannibal-LaGrange College, Thrower earned her degree in Elementary Education with endorsements in Middle School English, Physical Education, and Health in 2008 before completing a master's degree in administration from William Woods University in 2012. Thrower also has previous ties to HLGU through her work as a Missions Coordinator and Admissions student worker while attending the university. She was part of the HLGU softball program during a period that helped lay the foundation for future success and has remained closely connected to athletics and community leadership throughout her career. In her letter of interest, Thrower emphasized her desire to lead a program centered on integrity, accountability, faith, and personal growth. "As a head coach, I will run the program with integrity and high expectations," Thrower wrote. "I will teach student-athletes responsibility, commitment, teamwork, and how faith is the top tier to all we do in life." Thrower has also been actively involved in leadership and mentorship initiatives throughout her career, including Fellowship of Christian Athletes leadership roles, student mentoring programs, and community service activities. Her coaching résumé includes softball and basketball experience at both the middle school and high school levels, along with a reputation for building strong relationships with student-athletes and families. "I am incredibly honored and excited for the opportunity to return to Hannibal-LaGrange University," said Thrower. "HLGU played an important role in my life both academically and spiritually, and I look forward to investing in our student-athletes while continuing to build upon the strong foundation of this softball program. My goal is to create a culture that values faith, hard work, accountability, and excellence both on and off the field." Thrower will begin preparing immediately for the 2026-27 academic year by taking over the recruiting efforts for the future of Trojan softball.