Sharron Backus (2001) - Hall of Fame

Sharron Backus

Induction:
2001

Considered by many a softball icon, Backus was architect of the UCLA softball dynasty. The winningest Division 1 softball coach in NCAA history, Backus coached 21 seasons at UCLA (1976-96), posting a lifetime record of 847-167-3 (.835). Backus and the Bruins brought eight national championship trophies to Westwood (seven NCAA and one AIAW) including an unprecedented three in a row (1988, ’89, ’90). The Backus Era’s trophy case also includes four second-place trophies and three third-place awards. Her UCLA teams played in the College World Series 16 times. Backus coached a total of 53 All-Americans including Player of the Decade (1980’s) Dot Richardson and Lisa Fernandez, the first softball player to ever win the prestigious Honda-Broderick Cup as the top female collegiate athlete in 1993. Backus was inducted into the Women’s Sports Foundation Hall of Fame in 1993, the National Softball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1992 and the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) Hall of Fame in 1985. As a player, the Cal State Fullerton graduate had a legendary ASA career. A star shortstop, Backus was instrumental in seven ASA championships (1961,’65 and ‘71-75) and two international championships (1972 and ’74) as well as three professional World Championships (‘76-78). She is currently the Director of Player Personnel for the Women’s Pro Softball League.

* Accomplishments listed above were at the time of induction.