WILLIAMS, Arizona — After winning the 1A State Championship and being named 1A Conference Coach of the Year, popular Williams High School softball coach Raul Hatch has announced his retirement.

In his fifth year at the helm of a successful softball program, his team amassed an impressive 52-1 conference record, won two state championships, and appeared in two state semifinal championship games. .

In addition to coaching championship teams, Hatch also contributed to the development of individual talent, some of whom are currently attending college.

Three players were selected for the 1A Allstate team. Shelly Echeverría, Cadance Orozco and Chesney Carter played in the 1A-3A Senior All-Star Game at Shaw Low High School on June 3.

Carter signed with Chandler Gilbert Junior College on a softball scholarship.

Hatch is known for producing great pitchers. This year’s Hurler Kai Mortenson is ranked No. 1 in Arizona and No. 6 nationally.

“I’ve taken a lot of lessons from him, and that’s been a big factor in my success,” Mortenson said.

Hatch attributed much of the Vikings’ success to its players.

“Every pitcher has a desire to be a leader. They’re going to put the team’s success or failure on their shoulders,” Hatch said.

Hutch has deep roots in softball and baseball. His mother was a catcher for the semi-professional women’s baseball team in Brigham City, Utah in the 1950s. Her sister Juanita was a pitcher. He credits his knowledge and love of the game to his mother.

After graduating from high school and serving two years in the LDS Church, he married Renee, and the couple had four daughters. His first year as coach was when his eldest daughter was playing softball in her 10U. From there, he achieved success by coaching various club and school teams, winning state championships.

After his move to Williams, Williams High School athletic director Philip Echelebia asked him to coach the girls’ softball team. Coaching the Lady Vikings in 2019 was his first full year as Williams coach. Prior to 2019, all successive coaches were local residents. Hutch broke the mold when he took the job.

“I would like to thank Philip for his work on behalf of the newcomer,” he said. “It’s been an honor to coach here. My job is to put the best possible team on the field. I see each girl for her talent and attitude. Who’s in the circle[the pitcher’s mound]?” I don’t care, it depends on who works the hardest.”

Hatch said he is proud of his players and the effort they put into winning the championship, even though he is leaving coaching.

“We have smart, smart ball players on this team. They’re very smart,” Hatch said. They put their emotions aside and just play their game. They don’t live on the hype and are focused on the game. ”