If things are going great, why change much if you don’t have to?
That principle was kept in mind by LSU Alexandria officials in the last few days, as change unfolded in the Generals softball program.
Assistant Brannin Hagan was promoted to head softball coach Thursday, one day after the announcement that longtime Generals leader Trent Partridge had been hired to take over the program at Southland Conference NCAA Division I power Southeastern Louisiana.
Hagan has been Partridge’s top assistant for the past three seasons.
“We are extremely excited to have Brannin lead our softball program,” LSUA Assistant Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Tyler Unsicker said. “He has been an instrumental part of our success the last three years, has meaningful relationships with our players and recruits, and is deeply familiar with the program and LSUA. Brannin has an unwavering commitment to excellence and the student-athlete experience. We are excited for our softball program to continue its forward momentum and excel under his leadership.”
“I’m truly honored and humbled to be named the next head softball coach at LSUA,” Hagan said. “I want to thank Chancellor Dr. Liz Beard, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Tyler Unsicker, and all of the leadership at LSUA for believing in me with this opportunity.”
LSUA has made three consecutive NAIA postseason appearances alongside three 30-plus win seasons with Hagan on staff. The Generals won the Red River Athletic Conference Tournament championship in 2024 and the RRAC regular season championship in 2026. They have won at least 20 games in conference play since Hagan joined the staff in 2024.
“Over the past few years, LSUA has become home,” Hagan added. “The people here, the relationships that have been built, and the culture surrounding this program are incredibly special to me. I’m excited to continue building on that foundation and to lead a program that represents this university with pride, passion, and class every single day.”
In 2025, the Hagan and the Generals’ coaching staff were named ATEC/NFCA NAIA Region I Coaching Staff of the Year.
Four players have earned NAIA All-American honors under Hagan’s guidance. Madi Baker and Julia Kwakernaak were selected first team NAIA All-American in 2025, while Haley Fontenot earned the honor in 2024. Kaetlyn Dunbar was named an NAIA third team All-American in 2026.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get to work with our student-athletes as we continue chasing championships and make the LSUA community proud,” Hagan said.
LSUA has had 10 first team All-RRAC selections since 2024, three RRAC Player of the Year honorees, two RRAC Pitcher of the Year nods, and RRAC Defensive Player of the Year selections, and two RRAC Newcomers of the Year.
“I’ve had the privilege of playing for Coach B, so I can confidently say he is exceptionally prepared to lead this program as head coach,” said Fontenot, a recently graduated four-year General player. “Coach B brings a unique coaching style that challenges his players to reach their full potential. What has always set Coach B apart is the way he prioritizes his players as people first and athletes second. He understands success on the field beings by understanding each personality. Alongside Coach [Haley] Prim[rose], they have created a culture where athletes are respected. I have no doubt that he and Coach Prim will continue to build upon an outstanding program.”