Columbia, Mo. -Missouri Director of Athletics Mike Alden announced today that softball Head Coach Ehren Earleywine has been signed to a contract extension that will have him leading the Tigers through the 2013 campaign.

“We are so pleased with the progress of our softball program under the direction of Coach Earleywine,” Alden said. “He is positioning us for great success both immediately as well as in the future.”

In Earleywine’s two years at the helm, the Jefferson City, Mo., native has guided the squad to back-to-back NCAA Regional tournaments, claiming the program’s first NCAA Regional Title in 14 years in May of 2008. With the win, Earleywine’s squad advanced to Missouri’s first-ever NCAA Super Regional where the team squared off with Alabama.

“I am honored and excited about the contract extension,” Earleywine said. “I owe the administration many thanks for believing in me and giving me and my family the opportunity to be at home near family and friends. None of this would be possible without the success that we’ve had in the first two seasons. This is a direct result of a talented group of players who have worked extremely hard and have exceeded all expectations.”

Earleywine owns an 87-41 record in his two seasons with the Tigers and is 230-96 overall (six years), good for a .706 winning percentage.

“Coach Earleywine has done a fantastic job at Missouri in his first two seasons,” Associate Athletics Director for Operations Tim Hickman said. “Winning an NCAA Regional for the first time in 14 years this past year is an indication of the direction of our program. Recruits in Missouri and nationally are taking notice. We are excited about the future and are proud to have him in our dugout for a long time to come.”

Eight Tiger softball players have earned All-Big 12 honors during Earleywine’s time at Missouri, with Buford, Ga., native Rhea Taylor receiving Big 12 Freshman of the Year accolades in 2008. In addition five Missouri players were awarded All-Region honors in 2008, while Taylor became the program’s first All-American since 2003.

“There are a lot of coaching jobs across the country, but I can say without hesitation that Missouri is my dream job,” Earleywine said. “I hope that I will be able to retire here when my coaching career ends.In the meantime, I am confident that we can raise the level of the program to new heights and continue to give Missouri Softball fans something to be proud of.”