RINDGE, N.H. (7/3/26) - Franklin Pierce Athletics announced the hiring of Lily Rivera as its next head softball coach. Rivera comes to Franklin Pierce after a successful stint at Gordon College.
"We are thrilled to welcome Lily Rivera as the next head coach of our softball program," said Matthew Johnson, Director of Athletics. "Throughout the search process, Lily distinguished herself with her enthusiasm, leadership, and genuine commitment to the student-athlete experience. Her ability to connect with people and her vision for building a strong, supportive team culture stood out at every stage. We are confident she will continue the proud tradition of Franklin Pierce Softball while helping our student-athletes grow and succeed both on the field and in the classroom."
"I am incredibly honored and grateful to be named the next Head Softball Coach at Franklin Pierce University. First and foremost, I thank God for His faithfulness and guidance throughout this journey. Thank you to Matthew Johnson and the Franklin Pierce community for believing in me and providing me with this incredible opportunity. I am excited to join a community that values excellence, growth, and the development of its student-athletes."
Prior to Rivera's arrival in Rindge, she spent almost a decade at Gordon College as both a student athlete and coach. In 2024, Rivera was promoted to Head Coach of the program after two years on the staff as an assistant coach. In this role, Rivera oversaw recruitment efforts, athlete development, game strategy, academic support, and team culture.
Before joining the Fighting Scots' coaching staff, Rivera was a five-year student-athlete at Gordon, where she developed into an impactful player for the program. Throughout her collegiate career, Rivera had a .387 base percentage and .342 batting average. She also collected Commonwealth Coast Conference honors twice throughout her career.
In addition to her coaching experience at Gordon College, Rivera also served as a Regional Development Director for KidStrong, leading five regional locations and looked after staff hiring and training, operations, and upheld high-quality coaching standards.
"I am deeply thankful to everyone who has invested in me throughout my coaching career. To my village: my family, my fiancé, my friends, my mentors, former coaches, colleagues, and student-athletes, each experience has shaped me into the coach and leader I am today. Thank you for supporting and encouraging me every step of the way. Your belief in me has been an incredible blessing, and I would not be here without you."
Rivera completed her bachelor's degree in recreation, sport, and wellness from Gordon College in 2021 before earning her master's degree in financial analysis in 2022.
"I'm excited to join the Franklin Pierce community and invest in our student-athletes both on and off the field. I look forward to building a program rooted in excellence, character, relationships, and a championship mindset. I'm grateful for the opportunity to begin this next chapter. Go Ravens!"
