Softball Coaches

Martha serves as the inaugural Program Director and Head Coach of TN Heat Softball, bringing extensive experience in coaching volleyball, basketball, and softball. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from Trevecca Nazarene University and an M.B.A. from Tennessee State University, where she was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma and received the 2023–2024 Phillip Trella Award for Exemplary Values-Based Leadership. A former collegiate athlete and Scholar Athlete at TNU, Coach Herndon earned multiple honors, including the Golden Glove and Leadership Awards. Grounded in faith-based principles, her coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and personal growth. She remains dedicated to fostering excellence and providing meaningful opportunities for young athletes, particularly within the homeschool community.

Gretchen brings extensive coaching and playing experience across high school, college, and youth levels to our Heat program. She holds a B.S. in Health and Exercise Science and Psychology from Eastern University, a master’s degree in Forensic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and a Traditional Naturopath Certification from Trinity College of Natural Health.

A former collegiate pitcher, catcher, and soccer goalkeeper, Coach Perkins emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and fundamentals while integrating her faith-based philosophy into every aspect of her coaching. She views coaching as a calling—using softball as a platform to help young women grow in skill, character, and their relationship with Christ.

Originally from Western New York, Coach Perkins and her husband, Jesse, relocated to the Nashville area in 2023 with their three daughters, who are all active in TN Heat sports programs. In addition to coaching, she homeschools her daughters and teaches middle and high school science at a local tutorial in Madison, TN.

Brandy brings extensive coaching experience and a lifelong passion for the game. She has coached high school softball, worked as a private hitting instructor, and led youth tee-ball teams since 2024. Brandy earned a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas Tech University and is also a Certified Dental Assistant.

A former standout athlete, Brandy was a multi-sport All-State player at McLoud High School and a key member of McLoud’s 4A Fastpitch State Championship team. At Texas Tech, she excelled as a “Triple Threat” hitter, earning multiple accolades including Most Improved Player, Highest Fielding Percentage, and Big XII All-Tournament honors.

Her coaching philosophy centers on fostering a positive, team-oriented environment that emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and perseverance. She is dedicated to helping players develop both as athletes and individuals. Brandy resides in Columbia, TN, with her husband and their son where she continues to share her love for the game and commitment to player growth.