One of the Arizona Wildcats' greatest hitters of all time is returning to Hillenbrand Stadium.
Caitlin Lowe, a four-time first-team All-American and two-time national champion, was named the UA's operations director Wednesday.
She replaces former star hurler Alicia Hollowell, who was promoted to pitching coach last month after Larry Ray left following an arrest.
"She's always been a really good student of the game," Candrea said. "It's good to have people with her experiences around the program, especially having been so successful here."
Lowe, a 2008 Olympic silver medalist, will help plan travel and cut video.
She cannot serve as an on-field coach but can sit in the dugout.
Lowe, 27, will join the Wildcats next month at the conclusion of her National Pro Fastpitch season.
Candrea said he will "absolutely" allow the center fielder to play professionally next summer, if she wishes.
The coach said he "went to her to see if she had any interest" and gave her time to weigh a move to Tucson.
She will join former Pima College pitching coach Mark Blair, who was named the UA's volunteer assistant.
Blair will join the UA in one week, replacing Candace Abrams, who was named the head coach at Colorado Mesa University.
Blair, a former Flowing Wells High School coach, will advise Candrea and throw batting practice.
"I'm looking forward to having him be another great set of eyes and be a bench coach," Candrea said.
The Wildcats report for fall drills Sept. 4 and begin exhibitions a month later.
Lowe did not immediately return a message.
Please Wait…
