Dodgeville softball coach Gene Van Dyck retires

Coach Gene Van Dyck Retires After 34 Remarkable Seasons at the Helm of Dodgeville Softball.

After an incredible 34 consecutive seasons leading the Dodgeville High School softball program, Coach Gene Van Dyck has officially announced his retirement following the 2024–2025 school year.

Coach Van Dyck took over as head coach in the 1991–1992 school year, succeeding Larry Berg, who led the program for three seasons prior. Dodgeville softball was established in 1982–1983, with Ken Clough serving as the first head coach. The program's coaching lineage includes Clough (5 seasons), Tom Beney (1 season), Berg (3 seasons), and Van Dyck, who has been at the helm ever since.

Over the course of his remarkable career, Coach Van Dyck guided the Lady Dodgers to an impressive 421 wins and 241 losses, a winning percentage of approximately .636. His leadership brought the program:

*12 conference championships

*13 regional championships

*3 state tournament appearances, 2021 being a WIAA D3 State Championship

These comments came from Dodgeville High School Pricipal and Athletic Director Joey Martin:

“Beyond the numbers, Coach Van Dyck built a culture of dedication, teamwork, and pride that defined Dodgeville softball for more than three decades.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Coach Van Dyck for his unwavering commitment to the program, as well as to the many assistant coaches and support staff who played vital roles alongside him. The countless hours, behind-the-scenes efforts, and lifelong impact on student-athletes are a legacy that will not be forgotten.

The Dodgeville School District would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to Coach Van Dyck for his 34 years of service, leadership, and dedication to our students and community.  His impact reaches far beyond the field, and we are forever grateful for his contributions to Dodger athletics.

Thank you, Coach Van Dyck, for 34 unforgettable years”.

Van Dyck also had the privilege of coaching his daugthter Regina (Van Dyck) Lord, who pitched at state in 1994, bringing home a Silver Ball. He also coached his two granddaughters - Annika Lord, who won a state title in 2021, and Ava  Lord, who led the Dodgers to a conference championship this past year.