“Seminole Softball Coach Lonni Alameda Turns Down $3M UCLA Offer to Finish Her Career in Garnet & Gold”
In an era where loyalty in college sports often takes a backseat to million-dollar contracts and headline-grabbing transfers, Florida State softball coach Lonni Alameda has chosen legacy over luxury. By reportedly turning down a $3 million offer from powerhouse UCLA, Alameda sent a powerful message to the world of collegiate athletics: some coaches still believe in finishing what they started.
Alameda, who has been at the helm of the Seminoles’ softball program since 2009, has transformed Florida State into one of the most respected and feared programs in the country. Under her leadership, the team has consistently contended for national titles, highlighted by their 2018 Women’s College World Series championship. What sets Alameda apart is not just her winning record, but her commitment to building a culture of excellence, integrity, and family at Florida State.
The reported UCLA offer would have made her one of the highest-paid coaches in collegiate softball—a lucrative package few would think twice about accepting. After all, UCLA is a perennial softball giant with a rich history of championships and a massive West Coast recruiting base. For many, this would’ve been the dream job. But for Alameda, FSU is home. Turning down such a generous offer is a rare move in today’s sports landscape and highlights the depth of her dedication to her players, staff, and the Seminole community.
Lonni Alameda’s decision also holds deeper implications for the sport of women’s softball. In a time where money and prestige often dictate coaching moves, her loyalty adds a human element that fans and athletes alike can respect. For her players, it’s an irreplaceable message of stability and trust. For recruits, it’s a statement that Florida State is not just a stepping stone—it’s a destination where careers are made and legacies are built.
FSU Athletics also deserves credit for creating an environment where a coach like Alameda would choose to stay. The school has clearly invested in its softball program, providing top-tier facilities, support, and resources. But more importantly, they’ve built a community that prioritizes values, connection, and long-term vision—elements that clearly resonate with Alameda.
Choosing “Garnet & Gold” over blue-chip money isn’t just a win for Florida State—it’s a win for college sports. It reminds us all that behind the numbers and deals are real people with passion, principles, and purpose. Alameda’s commitment speaks volumes in a world often overshadowed by transactions and trends.
As she continues to lead the Seminoles into future seasons, Lonni Alameda will do so not just as a coach, but as a symbol of loyalty, leadership, and love for the game. Her choice will be remembered as one of those rare moments in sports when character outweighed cash—and that’s something even $3 milli
on can’t buy.
