PULASKI, Tenn. — Martin Methodist Softball head coach Brandie Paul officially announced the hiring of Kaelin Dawson as the program's new assistant coach Friday afternoon.

"I am very excited to welcome back Kaelin to our program," Paul said. "Kaelin is a Giles County product that also spent time at Martin Methodist.

Kaelin has an undeniable drive that is going to be her strongest attribute along with her pure talent for making young players better. She works hard, and expects the same from everyone around her."

Dawson comes from Holtville High School in Deatsville, Ala., where she has served the past year as head coach, while also teaching PE at Holtville Elementary School.

Prior to her time at Holtville, Dawson served one season as the assistant coach at Bethel University where she oversaw all outfielders, catchers, and workouts.

Dawson assisted Martin Methodist alumni and former softball player, Lori Lindsey, as a volunteer assistant at Columbia Community College before accepting her role at Bethel.

Along with team coaching experience, Dawson has instructed private catching lessons and has worked with many team sports in speed and agility training over the last six years, including the MMC softball team. She also assisted their program with camps, tournaments, and fundraisers. Dawson's specific duties will concentrate on recruiting, catchers, outfielders, speed and agility training, along with weight training.

"I am confident in the ability and attitude she brings to compliment me as we work together to develop strong student-athletes into even stronger young women who are ready to take on the world, Paul said."

Dawson is no stranger to the RedHawks; as a 2012 graduate of Giles County High School in Pulaski, the highly-touted catcher spent one season playing for Coach Paul.

Dawson went on to receive her bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Physical Education from Athens State University.

Dawson is currently working on her master's degree in Student Affairs through the University of West Alabama.

"I am very excited to come back 'home' and get rolling with a program that I have been around since I was 12 years old," Dawson said. "I remember going to the games when they were still played at North End Park, and I have always wanted to be a part of Coach Paul's dynasty. To have the opportunity to coach with her and learn more means the world to me and I can not wait to get started."