Nicole Bowman was promoted to assistant coach on July 12, 2023, after serving the App State softball program as a volunteer assistant for one season.

"I am thrilled and thankful to have Nicole promoted to a full-time assistant for our program," head coach Shelly Hoerner said. "The investment that Doug Gillin is putting into softball here at App State is greatly appreciated. Nicole brought so much to our team last season as our volunteer assistant. She loves to teach the game and has a great rapport with our players. Nicole will continue to work with our outfield and hitters on the field, in-game and practice management, and video analysis. Along with recruiting top-caliber student-athletes to elevate our program, Nicole will be a significant asset in the office. She will be in charge of managing gear and apparel, alumni communication and other events, social media management, and camp coordination."

Prior to the 2023 season, Bowman joined the staff at App State following a collegiate career at UNC Charlotte and Rutgers University.

She finished her playing career at nearby UNC Charlotte, starting in 47 games during her senior season. The former 49er recorded a .321 batting average, picking up 42 hits and 28 runs scored. She also registered 20 RBIs with five home runs en route to Second-Team Conference USA honors.

Bowman was with the Scarlet Knights for the first three years of her playing career as she started 140 of the 145 games she appeared in. The Illinois native tallied 111 hits to go along with 79 RBIs and 52 runs scored.

She is a graduate of Downers Grove South High School where she helped lead the Mustangs to four consecutive West Suburban Gold Conference championships, also garnering all-state honors.