New York, NY - After leading the John Jay softball team to the 2026 City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) championship and claiming the program's fourth straight league title, head coach
Sarah Piening announced her resignation on Wednesday.
"We are incredibly grateful for Coach Piening's leadership and the lasting impact she made on our softball program in just one season," Interim Director of Athletics
Brandon Fieland said. "She elevated the standard of excellence, brought tremendous energy and passion, and fostered a culture of accountability and growth. While we are saddened to see her go, we sincerely thank her for her dedication and wish her all the best in her future endeavors."
Piening led the Bloodhounds to an 18-win season and an 8-2 league mark, making them just the third program in CUNYAC history to win at least four straight league championships, joining Lehman (1980-1983) and Staten Island (1989-1992 & 2013-2019).
Additionally, Bryant became the third Bloodhound in program history to be named to an NCAA Division III Softball Championship Regional All-Tournament team, joining Bankston and former Bloodhound
Maleea Gallaspy.
"Serving as the head softball coach at John Jay this past year has been an incredible honor," said Piening. "As a first-year head coach at the collegiate level, I couldn't have asked for a more supportive group of administrators, coaches, and student-athletes. Everyone welcomed me from day one and made what could have been a challenging transition into an incredibly rewarding experience. The relationships I built and the memories we created will always stay with me. This was a very difficult decision because of how much I enjoyed being a part of the John Jay family, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity and the support I received throughout my time here. I wish nothing but continued success for the Bloodhounds!"
Before leading the Bloodhounds to their fifth championship in program history, Piening served as the head softball coach at Immaculate Conception/St. Mary in North Jersey, where she posted a 71-36 overall record and coached over 20 players to All-State and All-Conference recognition while earning Coach of the Year honors in 2023.
John Jay will immediately initiate a national search for the next head coach.
"As we begin the process of identifying our next head coach, we are confident this program is well-positioned for continued growth," Fieland added. "Coach Piening leaves the program with a strong foundation, and we look forward to building on the success she helped create."
