Photos by Laura Palicka.

Addie Hess

For six years, Coach Kaylee Gendrich, or Coach G. as she is known by her players, has been the head coach of girls’ softball at Hamilton. She has led her team to 100 career wins with a current record of 23-3 (as of May 29)! On Thursday, May 29, the varsity softball team won the Regional Championship Game against the Greenfield Hustlin’ Hawks. The Chargers won in a run rule 10-0 and will advance to the Sectional Semi-Final game against Arrowhead next Tuesday, June 3. However the season ends, Coach G.—also a teacher at Silver Spring Intermediate School—has led the team to amazing success.

Softball player and junior Grace Houts states, “Coach G. is one of those coaches that a lot of people don't understand. It is impossible to understand how her coaching style works until you've experienced it. Her intensity and energy are what keeps us motivated and shows us how much she cares. Coach on game day is only one part of her; the relationships each of us have with her is something that many teams don't get to experience. Because of her, we play for each other. She makes it very clear that that is what we are working towards and playing for.”

Junior Maddie Palicka adds, “Coach G has one of the most unique approaches to coaching. Yes she makes sure that fundamentals are a big focus, but she puts a huge emphasis on our team's culture. She pushes us to be the best versions of ourselves so that we can be a better team. She also heavily focuses on our mental game as well. She makes sure that we are mentally strong as well as strong players and because of that, we are one of the best teams in the area playing and team wise. One of my favorite things about Coach is when she shows up to practice with a new laminated inspirational quote and is so excited to show it to us because it shows how much she cares about us as people, not just players.”

Read more to hear from Coach G!

Have you coached in other places or at other levels?

Yes, I spent 9 years as an assistant coach at Waukesha North, where I had the opportunity to grow tremendously in my coaching journey. During my final two seasons there, we made back-to-back appearances at the WIAA State Tournament. Those high-level, high-pressure experiences were instrumental in preparing me for the challenges and opportunities I would later face at Hamilton. They helped shape my coaching philosophy and gave me a deeper understanding of what it takes to build a competitive and cohesive team.

When did you start playing softball? Talk more about your history with the sport!

I started playing softball around the age of six, spending countless hours with my dad and brother in the field just across the street from our house. Those early days sparked my love for the game, but it wasn’t until middle school that I began playing more competitively. Interestingly, I originally saw my future in college basketball—until I suffered an ACL injury during my freshman season. The rehab process was a turning point for me. It reignited my passion for softball and gave me a renewed sense of focus. I committed fully to the sport, and by my senior year, I was honored to be named Team MVP, First Team All-Conference, and Honorable Mention All-State. That journey really shaped my resilience and my love for coaching today.

Did you play softball in college? If so, where?

Yes, after high school I played two years of college softball at Lake Forest College. Unfortunately, during the off-season of my junior year, I reinjured my ACL. While it was tough to step away from competing, that setback became a turning point. I found myself on a bucket at practice—charting pitches, helping run drills, and supporting my teammates however I could. It was in that role that I discovered my true passion for coaching. My focus shifted from being a competitive player to becoming a student of the game, and I began actively learning from my college coach. That experience laid the foundation for my journey as a coach today.

What are some of your favorite memories as a softball player?

Some of my favorite memories as a softball player weren’t just on the field, but in the moments in between—especially the bus rides with my teammates. There was always so much laughter, team bonding, and energy that made those times unforgettable. One memory that really stands out is from my senior year of high school when we played at Arrowhead and pulled off a big win. The bus ride home after that game was filled with celebration and pure joy. It was one of those moments where everything—our hard work, our chemistry, our love for the game—just came together. That sense of community and shared success is something I’ll never forget.

What are some of your favorite coaching memories?

Wow—there are truly so many. From my years as an assistant coach to my current role at Hamilton, I’ve been fortunate to experience some incredible moments. I could easily highlight the big wins—regional and sectional championships, and multiple trips to State—but what stands out most to me are the relationships and growth I’ve witnessed over the years. My favorite memories are seeing players succeed both on and off the field. Whether it’s watching them reach a personal goal, become Valedictorian, grow into leadership roles, or return as alumni to cheer us on, those moments reflect the heart of our Charger program. When former players make the effort to come back, reconnect with coaches and teammates, and still feel a part of what we’ve built—that’s the real win.

Best part about coaching?

The best part about coaching, without a doubt, is the relationships. These girls are my world—they truly become like daughters to me. Over the years, we’ve gone through so much together, both on and off the field. Watching them grow, supporting them through challenges, and celebrating their successes is incredibly meaningful.

What really fills my heart is when they graduate and still reach back out—whether it’s to check in, share exciting news, or just to reconnect. Those lasting relationships are what matter most. They remind me that coaching is so much more than wins and losses. It’s about making an impact that sticks. That’s my 'why'—the reason I show up every day with energy, passion, and love for what I do.

Hardest part about coaching?

The hardest part about coaching is seeing players struggle—whether it’s with confidence, performance, injuries, or something personal off the field—and knowing that I can’t always fix it for them. As much as I want to take away the hurt or frustration, sometimes the most important thing I can do is simply be there, listen, and guide them through it.

It’s also tough when the season ends or when seniors graduate. You pour so much into building a team and forming those close relationships, and then suddenly, it’s over. There’s a real emotional weight to letting go, even when you’re proud of where they’re headed next.

But even in those hard moments, there’s meaning. They remind me just how deeply I care—and how much coaching is about more than the game. It’s about people, growth, and being a steady presence through it all.

Describe your coaching strategies/philosophy.

My coaching philosophy centers around developing well-rounded athletes who grow both on and off the field. I believe in creating a positive, supportive environment where players feel valued, challenged, and inspired to give their best every day. Building strong relationships with my players is key—I want them to know I care about their success not just in softball, but in life.

Strategically, I focus on fundamentals and consistent effort, ensuring that each practice is purposeful and engaging. I personalize practices through the use of Player Focused Plans (PFP), tailoring drills and goals to meet the unique needs and strengths of each athlete. This approach helps keep every player motivated and progressing.

I bring energy and variety to keep players invested and excited. Our motto, ‘It’s a Great Day for Charger Softball,’ reflects our commitment to having fun as a team and putting the program first. I emphasize teamwork, communication, and mental toughness because I believe those qualities are just as important as physical skills.

Ultimately, my goal is to help players reach their full potential while fostering a love for the game. I want them to leave the program not only as better athletes but as confident, resilient individuals ready to tackle whatever comes next.

How do you keep your players motivated?

Keeping players motivated starts with building strong relationships and understanding what drives each individual. I’m a pretty energetic person, and I truly believe that players feed off that energy—so I bring it every day. When I’m enthusiastic and fully engaged, they tend to match that intensity, which creates a positive and high-energy environment.

I also keep things fresh by bringing variety into our practices—changing up drills, adding competitive games, and making sure each session has a clear purpose. Motivation can dip when things get repetitive, so I’m intentional about keeping it fun and dynamic.

Sometimes, it’s the little surprises that make a big difference—like team dinners or an unexpected day off. Those moments build team chemistry and show the players that I see how hard they’re working, both mentally and physically. Ultimately, when players feel supported, valued, and challenged in a positive environment, motivation comes naturally.

Rapid fire questions:

Favorite uniform combo?

Pinstripes

What does PFP stand for?

I like to think of it as Personalized Fielding Practice but the term actually comes from Pitching/Fielding/Practice

Favorite PFP drill?

Any outfield drill with cones!

Favorite Taylor Swift song?

All Too Well (10 Minute Version)

Favorite menu item at the Duck?

Splitting pizzas with my coaching staff after a big win!

Dirt or turf fields?