Young Maddie Uschock brings plenty of experience to Franklin Regional

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Sunday, September 14, 2025 | 8:37 PM

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When she was pitching for Hempfield, Maddie Uschock had one of the best freeze-frame changeups in WPIAL softball.

The former championship ace is changing up her role at Franklin Regional where she recently received a significant promotion.

Uschock was named head softball coach of the Panthers after serving as an assistant pitching coach for a season.

A Shippensburg graduate, she has been giving personal instruction to blossoming players for nine years.

The 26-year-old replaces Jim Armstrong, who led Franklin Regional’s girls for more than two decades. Last year, he allowed Uschock to take his mound visits.

“It means a lot to be trusted with this opportunity, and I never take for granted how much a coach or an athletic program can impact the lives of young people,” Uschock said. “I know there’s already a solid foundation in place here, and I’m excited to build upon it while bringing my own energy and vision to the program.”

Uschock, who won WPIAL and PIAA championships under the leadership of legendary coach Bob Kalp at Hempfield, said she began instructing players when she was 17.

One thing led to another as she inched closer to coaching.

“It mainly started with private pitching lessons,” she said. “Then fielding and hitting instruction, as well. I have done lessons all over the place: public fields, Norwin Baseball Academy, my backyard, storage units with heaters in the winter … I’ve assisted a few rec softball leagues, and last year I was given the opportunity to be the assistant pitching coach at Franklin, which helped lead me to this exciting new role.”

Uschock has worked in human resources at Live! Casino as a talent acquisition specialist. She stepped away to spend more time coaching. She also works with Team All-American Softball in Trafford while still giving private lessons.

“I’m exploring flexible remote opportunities that will allow me to continue putting most of my energy into coaching and developing athletes,” she said.

Uschock is engaged to Mark Conboy and is preparing for her wedding. She will chase rings with the Panthers in the meantime.

“It’s an exciting time in my life,” she said. “I feel really fortunate to be starting this next chapter with Franklin Regional softball while also preparing for my wedding. (Conboy) is incredibly supportive and encouraging. We met before my last season of my college softball career. He came out to just about every game despite the long distances. Without him, I don’t think I’d be in this position, pursuing what I am passionate about.”

Armstrong built a fun but competitive environment in his coaching tenure, making the Panthers a perennial playoff team.

Uschock has similar aspirations.

“I want our team to be known for our competitiveness, discipline and love of the game,” she said. “Beyond wins and losses, I want Franklin Regional softball to develop confident young women who push themselves, support their teammates and represent the school and community with pride. A Maddie Uschock-coached team will be tough, prepared and passionate about softball.”

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Franklin Regional, Hempfield