CASTLETON, Vt. – Head Coach Eric Kraut of the Vermont State University Castleton softball team announced his resignation from the program on Tuesday, citing personal reasons for his decision.
Kraut leaves Castleton after two seasons at the helm, compiling a 38-29 overall record while helping guide the Spartans back among the Little East Conference's elite programs.
His departure comes on the heels of a historic 2026 campaign in which Castleton captured its first Little East Conference regular-season championship. The Spartans finished 21-14 overall and 12-4 in conference play, earning the top seed and hosting rights for the 2026 LEC Softball Tournament. For his efforts, Kraut was named Little East Conference Co-Coach of the Year after orchestrating a dramatic turnaround from the team's 17-15 overall record and 6-10 conference finish in 2025.
"This was one of the most difficult decisions of my career," said Kraut. "I love this program, our players, and the people who make Castleton special. But when your partner is presented with an incredible opportunity, you support them, and I could not be more proud of my wife.
"What this team accomplished this season speaks for itself. Winning the regular season championship and hosting the conference tournament was the result of a group that competed every day and refused to be satisfied."
During his two-year tenure, Kraut coached six Little East All-Conference selections, including First Team honorees Makayla Walsh and Madison Gould. He also helped develop Second Team All-LEC selections Masson Billert and Alex Brouillette, while mentoring Maddy Dudley to All-Rookie Team recognition. Under his guidance, Gould established herself as one of the top pitchers in the conference and program history, while Walsh emerged as one of the league's premier young catchers.
Kraut concluded his time with the Spartans by saying, "I am thankful for the opportunity to have coached these student-athletes. They have made me a better coach, and I will always be grateful for my time at Castleton."
A national search to find the next softball head coach will commence immediately.
