Bluefield, WV – Bluefield State University Athletics has officially named Kendrick Vivians as the next head coach of the Big Blue Softball Program.
Vivians comes to Bluefield State with a proven track record of developing student-athletes and establishing winning cultures. Known for combining competitive excellence with a strong commitment to academic achievement and personal growth, he brings a dynamic leadership style to the Big Blue.
"Coach Vivians brings a wealth of coaching experience, a passion for developing student-athletes, and a clear vision for building a successful culture here," said Director of Athletics Brodderick Tucker. "His proven ability to transform programs and mentor young women both on and off the field makes him the ideal leader for our softball program moving forward."
Vivians joins the Big Blue after being the head coach at Rust College, where he was hired in May 2022. Inheriting a program that had not had a single win in over a decade, Vivians orchestrated a turnaround in just three seasons, becoming the winningest softball coach in Rust College history.
In 2023, Vivians guided the Bearcats to their highest win total since 2008 and produced the program's first All-Conference selections, with team members setting single-season records in home runs, pitching, and offensive stats. The Bearcats reached new heights in 2024, posting the winningest season in school history, advancing to within one game of the conference championship series, and earning the program's first-ever First Team All-Conference selection.
Prior to Rust College, Vivians spent three years coaching at his high school alma mater, Moss Point High School, helping the football program capture three consecutive district championships while also serving as head middle school softball and track coach.
From 2016 to 2019, Coach Vivians led the Noxubee County High School softball program to some of the most successful seasons in school history. Demonstrating his commitment to creating opportunities for young women, two of his student-athletes became the first softball players in Noxubee County history to earn collegiate scholarships.
A former collegiate athlete, Vivians played baseball at Rust College, where he was a two-year starter in the outfield while also seeing time at second base and catcher. Later, he transferred to Mississippi State University, earning his Bachelor of Science degree. He also earned a Master of Education in Secondary Education from William Carey University.
Coach Vivians' philosophy centers on accountability, discipline, teamwork and fun, with a focus on preparing young women for lifelong success both on the field and in the classroom.
Vivians is the son of Carlton Vivians and Alice Williams. He is the proud father of two children: son Kace and daughter Keaturah Shaw (Head Softball Coach at Olive Branch High School).
