Breaking News: Legendary Club Coach Gary Fausett of The So Cal Choppers Has Died

Sad news coming out of the club softball world as legendary head coach Gary Fausett had passed away, according to several sources.

Gary and his son, Dean, ran the highly successful So Cal Choppers organization that was based out of Valencia, Calif. From ages 10U to 18U, the Fausetts won tournaments, yes, but also produced great players that would go on to top-level colleges.

Dean is in Colorado with his team and will likely be flying home to So Cal to be with family.

Two years ago, Extra Inning Softball did a ranking of top club coaches and the Fausetts (father and son) collectively came in at No. 28 (all in fun, of course).

Here’s what was written about father/son duo at the time:

Gary & Dean Fausett (So Cal Choppers)

Father and son coaching legends Gary and Dean Fausett have made their mark on club ball over the last three decades and continue to hold a high standard in the softball world. Their 18U team finished 4-2 at PGF Nationals (2022) and tied for 13^th in 2021.

The Southern California duo is known for their attention to mechanics and the mental side of the game and have produced players that have gone on to play at Power 5 programs nationwide as well as for Team USA.

One fellow Top 50-ranked coach, who has played intense games against Dean, says the son has learned well from his father and developed his own course for winning:

“Who doesn’t love Dean?  He’s fun, respectful, coaches a terrific game and he sure does know his stuff.  Dean never worries about wins and losses, maybe because he usually wins! But I admire him for that.  He doesn’t overcoach on game day—he clearly trains during practices and then trusts his players to perform.  It’s a pleasure to be around him and he’s another one I learn from and admire very much.”

We will have more on the legendary life and career of Coach Gary in the days to come.

*** If anyone, including current and former players, parents, fellow coaches–those who played with or against Coach Gary–would like to offer a thought, experience or memory involving him, please e-mail us at [email protected]. We will be running a tribute to the likable travel ball head coach soon.

— Brentt Eads, Extra Inning Softball