Dupage Policy Journal

Brian Levin has been named the new head softball coach at Millikin University, following the departure of former co-head coaches Katie Tenboer and Whitney Sowers, who have moved into athletics administration roles.

Levin comes to Millikin with 13 years of head coaching experience and a career record of 418-220. Most recently, he served as an assistant coach at Iowa after leading Southern Mississippi’s program for three years. During his time with the Golden Eagles, Levin posted a 65-62 overall record and a 29-23 mark in 2022.

Reflecting on his appointment, Levin stated, "My wife, Michelle, and I are very excited about the opportunity for me to take on the role as head softball coach at Millikin. My hope is to build upon the success the previous staff and team produced."

Associate Athletic Director Katie Tenboer expressed confidence in Levin’s fit with the program: "We could not be more honored to welcome Brian and Michelle to the Big Blue family. With the principles Brian believes in that align so well with what the program has reflected the last decade, there will be a seamless transition. His knowledge and experience will be an asset not only to the softball program, but to our entire athletic department and campus in a number of ways."

Before his tenure at Southern Miss, Levin was head coach at Belmont University for three seasons. The team advanced to two Ohio Valley Conference Tournaments under his leadership and recorded a 91-70 record—the most wins over a three-year span in program history.

Levin also led University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) for six years, guiding them to four straight NCAA Division II Tournament appearances—including consecutive Super Regional berths—and three Great Lakes Valley Conference Tournament titles. He coached several standout players during this period, including Alex Stupek, daughter of current Big Blue volunteer assistant Martin Stupek.

Additionally, Levin managed the Akron Racers professional softball team for three seasons and was part of their 2014 NPF Coaching Staff of the Year.

A native of Granite City, Illinois, Levin founded STAAR hitting mechanics camps and established an Amateur Softball Association organization in Tennessee. He spent two decades in military service—15 years with Fort Campbell’s 5th Special Forces Group—where he also volunteered as a high school sports coach.

Levin played football and baseball at Peru State College before earning degrees from Northcentral University and National University. His children Alisha and Matthew both competed as NCAA athletes.

"I am extremely grateful to the department leadership for allowing me this opportunity," said Levin. "Everyone was very welcoming, and I am looking forward to being a part of the Millikin family."