JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville softball team has finalized its coaching staff with the announcement of the addition of volunteer assistant coach Garrett Johns.

Johns, a former assistant coach at Nease High School, rounds out the staff of head coach Erica Ayers, newly promoted associate head coach Holli Mitchell and newly hired assistant coach Sydney Benz.

"I'm eager to get started with Garrett," head coach Erica Ayers said. "He has a ton of energy and passion for developing young women. He will be a great fit and we are lucky to have him."

While locally at Nease, Johns helped lead the Panthers to the 2026 FHSAA 6A District Championship as well as helping oversee both varsity and junior varsity programs in their practice planning, player development and program operations.

Johns earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Florida, also having played baseball collegiately at Clearwater Christian College. Post graduating, Johns took his talents to softball where he has since founded the Extra Rep Softball Academy in Jacksonville and has served as the head coach for the Florida Select 14U Showcase softball team.

Jacksonville University's newest softball coach also serves as the Regional Director for Florida Select Softball.

"I'm incredibly grateful to coach Ayers for the opportunity to join the Jacksonville University softball program," Johns said. "Coaching at the Division I level has been a goal of mine for a long time, and having the opportunity to do it here in Jacksonville makes it even more special. I'm excited to bring my passion for player development to JU, build relationships with our student-athletes and help continue moving this program forward. I'm ready to get to work."

The Dolphins are coming off a historic season in 2026, going 34-21 and reaching the ASUN Tournament semifinal game against top-seeded Central Arkansas. The season win total was the best under Ayers and the most wins in a season overall since 2011.

For more information regarding Jacksonville softball, visit JUDolphins.com/sports/softball or follow the Dolphins on social media: Instagram, @jax_sftbl and X, @jax_sftbl.