Kansas City’s Collegiate Exhibition Softball Team Announces Inaugural Coaching Staff
Lenexa, KS. – Top Gun Events is thrilled to announce the coaching staff for the Kansas City Diamonds, a new collegiate exhibition softball team based in Kansas City. Former Royals player and fan favorite Billy Butler and softball Olympian/Kansas Citian Monica Abbott have been named associate head coaches. Rylee Jensen and Jess Sherman join as assistant coaches. The Diamonds will take the field for the first time at the Kansas City Pro Softball Series in Overland Park, KS. The series is a three-day round robin tournament between the Kansas City Diamonds, the New York Rise, and the Florida Vibe running June 11-13, 2025.
Butler’s rich history in Kansas City and his extensive baseball career make him an invaluable addition to the coaching staff. His professional journey began when he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the first round of the 2004 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut in 2007 and quickly established himself as a formidable hitter. His tenure with the Royals was highlighted by a 2012 All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award, underscoring his offensive prowess.
“Getting the opportunity to come back to Kansas City, where I started and where I experienced some of the greatest moments in my baseball career, is truly special. Now, to have the chance to coach top college-level athletes who are on the brink of starting their professional softball careers and to be part of history is an incredible honor,” said Butler. “There is no better place to do that than in Kansas City, where the passion for sports runs deep and the fans are second to none. As a dad of three daughters who love softball, I hope to see more opportunities for the sport to grow and gain the recognition it deserves.”
Beyond his on-field achievements, Butler has maintained deep ties to the Kansas City community. Transitioning from player to mentor, Butler has embraced coaching roles, including serving as the head coach for the USA Explosion Premier Butler 18u softball team, where he shares his expertise and passion for the game with young athletes.
Monica Abbott, considered to be one of the most dominant players to have played the game, has been appointed as associate head coach. Renowned for her exceptional pitching skills and a career adorned with accolades, Abbott’s transition into this coaching role signifies a monumental addition to the Diamonds’ leadership.
The powerhouse left-handed pitcher is a two-time Olympic Silver Medalist, has won 18 different domestic and international championship titles, is a four-time NCAA All American holding NCAA records in: career wins (189), shutouts (112), strikeouts (2,440), single-season strikeouts (724), and currently holds the Guinness Book of World Records for fastest pitch at 77 MPH.
“Anytime we have a chance to promote professional softball, I’m on board!” said Abbott. “More opportunities, more backing, and more college stars playing professionally isn’t just a pipe dream – it’s becoming a reality.”
In recent years, Abbott has established roots in Kansas City and now resides in the area. She has expressed a profound desire to inspire and mentor the next generation of athletes, aiming to cultivate future Olympians from the region. She is deeply committed to youth development, frequently conducting clinics and sharing her wealth of knowledge with aspiring softball players.
Rylee Jensen has been appointed as assistant coach for the KC Diamonds. Jensen was a four year start at BYU and was named All-WCC First Team all four years, NFCA All-Pacific Regional First Team in 2019 and 2021, Academic All-American in 2021, and set school records for games played (242), games started (239), career doubles (52), and career runs (228).
Jensen is currently the Head of Softball Operations at Idaho Athlete Project. In her role, Jensen is building a softball program for girls at all levels and ages.
Jessica Sherman has been appointed as assistant coach for the KC Diamonds. Sherman’s coaching career includes significant roles in various softball programs at different levels. Beyond her coaching responsibilities, Sherman is dedicated to promoting softball and empowering young women in sports.
