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Norman Today
By the People, for the People
OU Softball Adjusts to Rocha's Absence as Keeney Steps In
Head coach Patty Gasso provides update on assistant coach Jen Rocha's health issues
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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The Oklahoma Sooners softball team is navigating the start of the 2026 season without longtime assistant coach Jen Rocha, who is currently dealing with some severe health issues. Head coach Patty Gasso says Rocha is resting at home and the team is trying to provide her comfort through their play on the field. In Rocha's absence, former Sooners player Karlie Keeney has stepped in as the interim pitching coach, a role Gasso says Rocha specifically requested.
Why it matters
Rocha has been a key part of the OU softball program's success over the years, known for her ability to develop pitchers and keep the coaching staff grounded. Her absence is a significant loss for the team, both in terms of on-field coaching and the stability she provides behind the scenes. How the Sooners adjust to her absence and Keeney's leadership will be crucial as they aim for another championship run.
The details
Rocha was initially expected to miss around six weeks due to a procedure, but her recovery took longer than anticipated, requiring another procedure that pushed her return back further. Gasso says the team is waiting on test results and doctor's recommendations before determining a timeline for Rocha's potential return. In the meantime, former Sooners player Karlie Keeney has stepped in as the interim pitching coach, a role Gasso says Rocha specifically requested. Keeney, who lives in Kentucky, came to Norman to take on the position on short notice.
- Rocha was initially expected to miss around six weeks due to a procedure.
- Rocha returned in two weeks, wanting to be around the program.
- Rocha then needed another procedure that pushed her return back further.
The players
Patty Gasso
The head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners softball team, who has guided the program to multiple national championships.
Jen Rocha
The longtime assistant coach and pitching guru for the Oklahoma Sooners, known for her ability to develop pitchers and provide stability to the coaching staff.
Karlie Keeney
A former Oklahoma Sooners softball player who has stepped in as the interim pitching coach in Rocha's absence, a role Rocha specifically requested she take on.
What’s next
The Sooners will continue to monitor Rocha's health and await her potential return to the team, with Keeney serving as the interim pitching coach in the meantime.
The takeaway
Rocha's absence is a significant loss for the Oklahoma Sooners softball program, both in terms of her on-field coaching expertise and the stability she provides to the coaching staff. How the team adjusts to her absence and Keeney's leadership will be crucial as they aim to maintain their championship-level performance.
