Briefs: UM hires softball coach; Whitefish Lake aces

Stef Ewing, previously the head coach at NCAA Division II Cal State San Marcos, was announced as the third softball coach in University of Montana history Thursday. 

Ewing built a winner out of a team that finished last in the California Collegiate Athletic Association in 2018. The Cougars won 45 games in 2022 and made the Division II World Series in 2023. 

“We had some great candidates. In the end, Stef’s enthusiasm and energy and passion for the sport of softball and for developing young women really stood out,” Montana athletic director Kent Haslam said. “I’m excited for her to take the lead and. ... see what brand of softball we play.” 

Over Ewing’s final three seasons the Cougars won 115 games and three times advanced to the NCAA tournament. 

“The University of Montana knows how to win in athletics and the support from the community is something that grabs you,” Ewing said. “Griz Nation is real. When I was on campus, I just felt it.” 

 As a freshman catcher Ewing helped Oregon State reach the College World Series for the first time in 2006. 

She replaces Melanie Meuchel, who resigned after seven seasons with a 128-200 record. 

Whitefish Lake ace for Joern 

Tim Joern aced No. 7 on the South Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club on Wednesday. 

The shot covered 164 yards from the white tees and was witnessed by Campbell Potts and Andy Potts. 

Armstrong lands Whitefish ace

Jake Armstrong got a hole-in-one on No. 16 of the South Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club on June 15.  

The shot, which covered 136 yards from the white tees, was witnessed by Austin Elm and Chris Cox.