Ferris High School has named Richard “Rich” Carver as the next head coach of the Saxons’ slow pitch softball program, bringing an experienced coach with strong connections throughout the Spokane-area softball community to Ferris.
Carver brings over 17 years of combined softball and baseball coaching experience spanning recreational, youth, American Legion and competitive club programs – this includes time as the head coach of the Spokane Stealth 18U fastpitch program, where he has coached since 2021 after initially joining the organization as an assistant coach.
His recent success with Spokane Stealth includes a second-place finish at the Northwest National Tournament and a run to the quarterfinals of the 2026 Canada Cup in Surrey, British Columbia. Carver’s team went 5-1 during the international tournament and entered the summer with a 20-4 overall record.
Carver’s ties to the local softball community extend beyond his current club program. He previously coached multiple age groups with the Spokane Valley Girls Softball Association and has worked with players ranging from introductory youth programs through 18U competitive softball.
“We are excited to welcome Rich to Ferris and believe his experience and relationships within the Spokane softball community make him a strong fit for where we want to take our program,” Ferris Athletic Director Ryan Eucker said. “One of our priorities is strengthening the connection between Ferris softball and the talented players competing throughout our attendance area. Rich understands that landscape, has spent years developing athletes within it, and shares our vision for building a program that our student-athletes want to be part of.”
Carver describes his coaching philosophy as one built around creating a positive, inclusive and supportive environment while challenging athletes to grow. He emphasizes fundamentals, helping players understand the strategy behind the game and using mistakes in practice as opportunities to learn, develop confidence and prepare for competition.
He will begin leading the Saxons immediately as Ferris prepares for the 2026 slow pitch softball season.