A new chapter is underway for longtime coach Randall “Randy” Mikkelsen, who announced in a recent social media post that he has accepted a new position as the next head softball coach at Zeeland West. In his message, Mikkelsen said he “could not be more blessed,” adding that he’s excited to start the role and “hit the ground running,” while also thanking supporters and former players who helped shape his coaching path.
In the Zeeland West welcome graphic shared alongside the announcement, Mikkelsen echoed that gratitude, saying he is “still in shock and honored” to be named head coach. He also noted that while he’s not from the Zeeland community, he has coached for many years, has admired Zeeland West athletics, and is eager to help student-athletes develop skills, confidence, and character.
Montague Roots — Coaching Football and Softball for Years
Mikkelsen’s coaching resume is well-established in Montague, where he coached football and softball for many years, earning respect across the program and community.
That football tradition in particular includes a moment Montague fans won’t forget: the Wildcats’ 40–14 win over Clinton in the Division 6 state championship game at Ford Field. The Local Sports Journal game story described Montague pulling away in the second half to secure the title—one of the defining accomplishments of the program’s recent run.
A Family Story at the Heart of It
Coaching has been more than X’s and O’s for Mikkelsen—it’s also been family.
He has had the chance to coach his son during football and coach his daughter, Kiara, in softball, turning everyday practices and big-game moments into memories that last far beyond the season.
That father-daughter connection was featured in a CatchMark Sports story spotlighting Kiara Mikkelsen’s college signing (Aurora University in Illinois) and the deep bond the two share through the game. The article also noted that Randy Mikkelsen had been named Montague’s head softball coach, making the moment even more meaningful as they celebrated a major milestone together.
Looking Ahead at Zeeland West
As he transitions to Zeeland West, Mikkelsen’s public message makes his mindset clear: gratitude for the journey, appreciation for the people who helped him along the way, and real excitement for what comes next.
With a long track record in Montague athletics—plus the personal perspective of coaching his own kids—Coach Randall Mikkelsen now steps into Zeeland West ready to lead, connect, and build something special.
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