Spartan Times

Coach of the Week: Head softball coach Candra “C.J.” Robie

Compiled by Branna McFadden, Reporter

Was there someone in your life who got you interested in coaching? I had two amazing college coaches, and I knew after playing it was something I wanted to do.

How long have you been coaching for? I started coaching at 20. I had my own summer ball team in Utah. I started at CNCC in Fall 2007, so a total of 5 ½ years.

Did you participate in this sport in college or high school? I played softball all through high school, starting as a sophomore. I moved on to play at Salt Lake Community College for my two years with the Bruins. I was a starting catcher, helped lead the Bruins to their first trip to Nationals, and helped add another region championship. I had a scholarship to the University of Utah, but after my shoulder surgery, I never recovered so I had to end my softball career.

How did you become the coach here at CNCC? I met my husband while playing at SLCC. He was a student at CNCC, and we met my freshman year. I moved to Rangely in the Spring of 2007 to be with him, the assistant coaching job opened up, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do.

What made you interested in becoming a coach for softball? I played a lot of sports growing up and through high school. Softball was my true love. And that’s what I went to college for, so I had a lot more knowledge.

How long have you been participating in softball? I started playing around five years old, with tee ball and coach pitch.

How many athletes are on your team? 12

Is there anything in particular you would like to see your team walk away with at the end or their season (such as a certain strength, impression, experience, succeeded goals)? I want my players to walk away with the same amazing college experience I had.

Do you plan to continue to coach after this year? I would like to say yes, but with a baby on the way, it’s hard to say at this point.

Do you find it difficult to balance your time between coaching and your personal life? No, it works out well; my husband is very understanding when we are in season.

Are there great differences between playing softball and coaching? Huge differences. As a player, you don’t have to worry about rules, line-ups and all the other things involved. You just show up and play.

Did you always want to be a college coach? I knew I wanted to coach, where I didn’t really care.

How did you start off coaching (what got you into coaching)? After I was told my shoulder would not heal and I couldn’t play anymore, the next closest thing to the sport was coaching.

If someone wanted to become a coach, what advice would you give them? Don’t be a friend and don’t let them walk on you. You are in charge, not them.

Are there any personal comments you would like to say? Just that I am very excited to see how the season pans out.

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