VERMILLION, S.D. — Head softball coach Shannon Pivovar announced her second assistant coach to her staff heading into the 2027 season, naming Tyler Fuller to her staff for the 2027 season on Thursday.
 
"Tyler brings a championship pedigree to our program, and I am excited for him to join the family. He brings a strong work ethic and humble personality, along with a competitive drive that aligns perfectly with the values of our Coyote softball program," said Pivovar. "I am eager to see what he is able to add to our student-athlete experience on end off the softball field as he both supports and challenges them to be their best every day. His "bring your swing" mentality is going to allow us to dig into individuality in player development and really work to grow each of our athletes in their own way. I cannot wait for him to get to campus!"
 
Fuller comes to Vermillion after two seasons on staff at Coffeyville Community College (Kan.) as an assistant coach.
 
"I am beyond excited to join the softball family at the University of South Dakota!" said Fuller. "I'm grateful for the chance to be a part of this program, and I want to thank Coach Piv and everyone at USD for such a warm welcome. I can't wait to get to work. Go Yotes!"
 
Prior to his time at Coffeyville, he spent three seasons with Division II Pittsburg State (Kan.) from 2022-24 where he and the program saw phenomenal results. The Gorillas improved win totals in each of his three seasons on staff that culminated with the 2024 MIAA Regular Season championship. He coached four All-Americans and seven All-Region athletes during his stint at Pittsburg State.
 
The program also saw 10 program records set in 2024 that included total wins (53), winning percentage (.869) and the Gorillas coaching staff won 2024 MIAA Coaching Staff of the Year honors. Pittsburg State won their first eight games of the campaign and would go onto NCAA Division II regional play with a pair of wins over Southern Arkansas and Oklahoma Baptist, wrapping up the season with a 53-8 (23-3 MIAA) record.
 
Before getting into coaching, Fuller spent time as a member of the United States Air Force from 2016-21 working in communications and logistics.
 
He graduated from Pittsburg State University with a degree in sports management in 2024.