Born: 1990 (Woodland, California)
Biography:
Alyssa Michelle Nakken, born on June 13, 1990, is a trailblazing figure in American professional baseball. She made history as the first full-time female coach in Major League Baseball (MLB) and became the first woman to coach on the field during a major league game. Nakken’s pioneering accomplishments have shattered gender barriers and opened doors for future generations of women in the sport.
Hailing from Woodland, California, Nakken attended Woodland High School, where she established her athletic prowess by participating in softball, basketball, and volleyball. Her commitment, determination, and natural talent set her apart, indicating early on that Nakken was destined for greatness. In 2008, she successfully graduated from Woodland High School, leaving a lasting impact on the local sports scene.
Following her high school journey, Nakken pursued her college education at California State University, Sacramento. There, she joined the Sacramento State Hornets softball team as a first baseman, making waves with her exceptional skills. Nakken’s college softball career was nothing short of extraordinary. With a .304 batting average, she dominated the playing field, earning numerous accolades throughout her four years on the team. Her consistent performance led to being named to the All-Pacific Coast Softball Conference every year from 2009 to 2012. Nakken further cemented her legacy with three-time all-conference selections and the prestigious title of 2012 conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year. In addition to her athletic pursuits, Nakken excelled academically and received a bachelor’s degree in psychology upon graduating.
In 2014, Nakken embarked on her professional career with the San Francisco Giants, joining the organization’s baseball operations department as an intern. She quickly made an impact by contributing to the team’s health and wellness programs. Nakken’s dedication, work ethic, and passion for the sport caught the attention of the Giants’ management, ultimately leading to her promotion. In January 2020, she gained recognition as the first full-time female coach in MLB history when she joined the major league coaching staff as an assistant coach. This groundbreaking achievement shattered the proverbial glass ceiling and propelled Nakken into the annals of baseball history.
On July 20, 2020, Nakken added another historic milestone to her impressive resume. She became the first woman to coach on the field during a major league baseball game. Serving as the first base coach for the Giants in an exhibition match against the Oakland Athletics, Nakken perfectly exemplified her expertise and dedication to the game. This landmark event solidified her position as a true pioneer in the world of baseball. As a testament to the significance of that day, Nakken’s jersey worn during the game was sent to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, forever immortalizing her trailblazing accomplishment.
Nakken’s impact on the sport continued in the following years. She consistently showcased her talent and expertise as a coach during exhibition games in 2021. Then, on April 12, 2022, she achieved yet another groundbreaking feat. Nakken became the first woman to coach on the field during a regular season major league game. Following the ejection of the Giants’ first base coach, she confidently assumed the position, helping guide the team to victory against the San Diego Padres. Her continued success only solidifies her role as a true leader and inspiration to aspiring athletes around the world.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Nakken enjoys a fulfilling personal life. She is married to Robert Abel, a baseball coach and the founder of a baseball school established in 2019. Together, they support and inspire each other in their shared passion for the sport, leaving an indelible mark on the baseball community.
Awards:
– First full-time female coach in MLB history
– First woman to coach on the field during a major league game
– Jersey from her historic coaching appearance sent to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum