Left to right: Kellee Vornhagen and Josh Schmeits, (Kearney Public Schools, Courtesy)
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools is pleased to announce that Kellee Vornhagen and Josh Schmeits will lead the Kearney High School Bearcats softball team as interim Co-Head Coaches for the 2025 fall season.
The pair will take over the program following the recent resignation of Head Coach Steve Stutzman.
Vornhagen brings more than 25 years of on-field coaching experience and over 30 years of involvement in the game. Her extensive background includes roles as a head coach, assistant coach, and hitting/pitching coach at the college, high school, and travel ball levels. She currently serves as the pitching coach at Kearney High and is a former pitching coach for the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Kellee is a certified Tincher Pitching instructor, an ASA Level 4 Coach, a member of the Nebraska Coaches Association, and a current member of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA).
“We have an amazing coaching staff and an incredible group of players with outstanding senior leadership,” said Vornhagen. “These players have consistently demonstrated commitment to their development and passion for the game. I’m excited to be part of putting all the pieces together for a great year and a great program for the future!”
Coach Schmeits complements the staff with strong leadership and youth coaching experience. Over the past eight years, Schmeits has coached at various levels of softball, including the previous two years as assistant coach under Coach Stutzman. He’s served as both a head coach and assistant coach for club teams such as Dmilaco in Kearney, the Prodigy National Team, and currently the Nebraska Gold Regional team. He also served on the board of the Kearney Competitive Girls Softball Association from 2018 to 2021, including terms as Vice President and President.
“I’m beyond excited for the incredible opportunities ahead for our team and coaching staff,” said Schmeits. “Softball is more than just strategy—it’s about forging strong relationships, inspiring players to reach their full potential, and creating unforgettable moments that define a season. Let’s embrace the journey ahead and make every moment count!”
Ryan Hogue, KPS Activities Director and KHS Assistant Principal, shared, “We are excited to see the leadership, experience and passion that both Kellee and Josh will bring to the softball program for the 2025 season. They have both played vital roles the last two years as assistant coaches and with their combined experience at the club, high school and college level as well as their commitment to our student-athletes, I know the fall softball season is going to be very successful. We have a very experienced team coming back following a 23-17 record this past season and I am 100% confident that Coach Vornhagen and Coach Schmeits will continue the strong tradition of Kearney High Softball.”
The Bearcat community looks forward to cheering on this exciting team for the 2025 softball season.
