News Summary

Hickman Athletics has announced the hiring of Heather Fowler as the new head coach for the softball team and Dennis Karkrah for the boys’ soccer team. Both coaches bring extensive experience and fresh perspectives to their roles. Fowler, a seasoned veteran, is known for her focus on player development, while Karkrah aims to instill discipline and character in athletes. As the community prepares for the 2025 season, excitement builds for the upcoming games and the positive changes these new leaders will bring.

Exciting Changes in Hickman Athletics: Meet the New Coaches!

Hickman is buzzing with energy this summer as the athletics department has just announced two new head coaching hires that have the community all abuzz. On July 16, the school introduced Heather Fowler as the new head coach for the softball team and Dennis Karkrah as the boys’ soccer coach. These changes promise to bring fresh ideas and experiences to the teams, as both coaches are eager to hit the ground running.

Welcome, Heather Fowler – A Veteran in Softball

Starting with the softball program, Heather Fowler is stepping in to take the helm for the upcoming 2025 season. With a coaching journey that began in 1996, Fowler is no stranger to the Mid-Missouri softball scene. Her impressive resume includes stints at South Callaway High School and Westminster College, where she honed her skills and built a reputation for cultivating young talent. What’s even more remarkable? She previously ran the Legacy Fastpitch program, which focused on player development, ensuring that athletes not only improve their skills but also gain confidence and resilience on the field.

Fowler isn’t just any coach; she holds certifications as a Missouri State High School softball official and a strength and conditioning coach, which will certainly give her an edge in developing well-rounded players. And let’s not overlook her service as a United States Air Force Veteran, showcasing her leadership and commitment to excellence.

Fowler will be replacing Whitni Howell, who bid farewell to return to Jefferson City at the end of June. Last season, the Kewpies had a competitive record of 10-14, marking their most wins since 2021. With Fowler at the helm, there’s a buzz of enthusiasm as fans anticipate how she will lead the team into the upcoming season, kicking things off at the Peoples Bank Trust Classic in Troy, Missouri, on August 29.

Introducing Dennis Karkrah – Passionate About Discipline and Character

Now let’s turn our attention to the boys’ soccer team, where Dennis Karkrah takes the reins. Karkrah brings a wealth of experience from over 20 years of coaching wrestling, and while his background in soccer isn’t as extensive, he firmly believes that many coaching philosophies can overlap. His enthusiasm to transfer his proven coaching methods from wrestling to soccer could mean exciting times ahead for the Kewpies.

Karkrah is all about building discipline and character in athletes, and his passion for coaching shines bright. Although he might be considered a “newcomer” in soccer coaching, there’s no denying his commitment to fostering the same rigor and dedication that has made his wrestling teams successful in the past. He is excited to dive into his dual role of coaching both soccer and wrestling at Hickman, promising a focus on shaping not just great players, but also great individuals.

The boys’ soccer team is coming off a fantastic 2024 season with a record of 16-8-1, leaving big shoes to fill. By starting the 2025 season against Nixa on August 29, Karkrah has the perfect opportunity to kick off this new chapter full of energy and determination.

The Community Awaits

As Hickman prepares for the 2025 season for both sports, the excitement is palpable. With Heather Fowler and Dennis Karkrah at the helm, the Kewpies are not just gearing up for the games ahead; they are building a foundation for success, character, and community. The support from fellow students, parents, and alumni will undoubtedly help in making the upcoming seasons something to remember!

So, mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on the Kewpies this fall. With new leadership and a fresh outlook, the future of Hickman Athletics looks brighter than ever!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Howard Dillard Jr. Takes Charge as Head Coach of Lady Blue Tornado

Additional Resources