OSHAWA, Ont. - Kaleigh Parkin (formerly MacIntyre) will return to the women's softball team as a coach at Durham College, having been accepted into the 2025-27 OCAA Mentorship Program.
"Kaleigh was an incredible competitor and teammate during her time as a player, and we're thrilled to welcome her back to the dugout," said head coach Jamie Baker. "She brings a deep understanding of our program's culture and values, and I'm excited to see her grow as a coach through the OCAA Mentorship Program. She's going to make a big impact on our student-athletes."
The OCAA's mentorship Program provides a streamlined pathway for graduating athletes who are looking to develop as a coach. This join initiative is a collaboration between the OCAA and the Coaches Association of Ontario.
"This program provides excellent support for our members and especially for our student-athletes that are considering coaching as the next stage in their sport journey," said Kyle Pelly, the OCAA's Executive Director.
Parkin first came to Durham College in 2018 as a student-athlete, playing for the women's softball team. She contributed to a lot of team success, including two OCAA championship gold medals, two silver medals, and two national silver medals.Â
Individually, Parkin earned a league all-star award from the OCAA.
"I am so excited to be stepping into a new role with the Lords as a coach," said Parkin. "After spending several years with the program as a player, it's an absolute honour to be able to stay involved with a team that has meant so much to me."
Crediting the program with shaping her as a player and a person, Parkin looks to give back in a different way. "I have so much respect for Coach Baker, and I'm really looking forward to learning from him in a coaching role," she added.
Kaleigh gave a terrific first-person account of a long and meaningful career, click here to read more.
To date, the OCAA Mentorship has supported over 40 coaches.
Stay in the know regarding Durham College Athletics and follow us on Instagram, X and Facebook.
Â
