Andrew Rich, Idaho State softball’s winningest coach, accepts job at Boise State

POCATELLO — After five years and a program record 144 wins, Andrew Rich has stepped down as head softball coach at Idaho State University and accepted the head coaching position at Boise State University.

Rich led the Bengals to a 144-119 (.545) overall record, the program’s first-ever win over a top-15 opponent — when ISU beat Texas Tech last season — and three conference regular season titles, a co-championship in 2023 and outright titles in 2025 and 2026. This year, he coached the Bengals to the program’s first conference tournament championship and national tournament berth.

Idaho State Athletics announced Rich’s intent to step down from his head coaching position with a news release Wednesday afternoon.

In the release, athletic director Pauline Thiros offered her thanks to Rich for his work developing Bengal softball into perennial power within the Big Sky Conference.

“I want to thank Coach Rich for his tremendous leadership and the lasting impact he has made on our softball program,” Thiros says in the release. “Five years ago, we took a chance on a coach whose potential we believed in. He became the winningest coach in program history, led Idaho State to multiple conference championships, and helped deliver one of the most successful eras Bengal Softball has ever experienced. His impact extends far beyond the field through the culture and standards he established for our program. We are grateful for his commitment to Idaho State and wish Andrew and his family continued success in the future.”

The release also includes a comment from Rich:

“Five years we moved to Pocatello with a vision of what this softball program could be and made everything happen. I am so thankful for my time in Pocatello and have created memories and friends that will last a lifetime. I can’t thank Pauline enough for giving me the chance to lead the Idaho State Softball program. She is an amazing leader and the perfect person to be leading the Idaho State athletic department. Bengal Softball is in a great place and I hope someone can come in and continue to take it to even higher levels. My family and I will miss the Pocatello community and thank everyone for all the love and support they have shown over the years. Lastly, thank you to all of our players who have poured their hearts out for the Orange and Black and have helped us truly put Idaho State Softball on the national map!”

Eight minutes after Idaho State Athletics issued its release, Boise State Athletics issued its own release, naming Rich the new head coach of the Broncos.

According to ISU Assistant Athletic Director Jon Match, the search for Rich’s replacement has already begun. Those interested in applying for the position can do so — here.