OREM, Utah — Utah Valley head softball coach Cody Thomson has announced the hiring of former Utah standout Haley Denning Brown as an assistant coach on his staff.

"I couldn't be more excited for Haley Brown to come and be part of my coaching staff," said Thomson. "I saw her growth as a player and can't wait to see what she can do in the coaching world."

Denning Brown, who spent the first three years of her collegiate career under Thomson at the University of Utah, brings a wealth of experience playing softball on some of the biggest stages, including a trip to the 2023 Women's College World Series with the Utes.

"I am more than excited to be working with Coach T," said Denning Brown. "I had a great time playing for him at Utah and I am excited to learn from him now as a staff member. What an amazing opportunity, I cannot wait to get started! Go Wolverines!"

A five-year starter with the Utes, Denning Brown received All-PAC-12 honors in each of her completed campaigns, and was an All-Pacific region selection in three of those seasons. At the end of her illustrious playing career, Denning Brown ranked as the Utah program leader in hits, runs scored, at-bats, and career batting average. Denning Brown played a pivotal part in Utah's historic run to a PAC-12 Tournament title and a berth in the WCWS in 2023, posting at least one hit in each of the Utes' final 10 games.

A native of Phoenix, Ariz., Denning Brown married her husband Trevor in 2024. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Emergency Management and a certificate in Applied Positive Psychology from Utah.