Millersville

As a student-athlete, coach and staff member, Donna Eshleman was synonymous with Millersville athletics for 40 years. A two-sport athlete in basketball and softball, Eshleman played a key role in building women’s athletics at Millersville, playing shortstop on the University’s first softball team and serving as captain of a record-setting team on the basketball court. Shortly after graduation, Eshleman returned to Millersville, beginning a 36-year tenure as equipment manager in athletic operations, dedicating her professional career to serving generations of student-athletes. 

Eshleman’s behind-the-scenes work in athletic operations was tireless and often underappreciated, but she was a constant. She made a positive difference in the student-athlete experience by setting up for game days, working as a liaison for game officials and visiting teams, ordering equipment, and washing, organizing and purchasing practice gear and game uniforms. Through this role, she connected with countless student-athletes who appreciated her organization, work ethic and dedication. 

Eshleman first arrived at Millersville in 1978 as a student-athlete and worked as a student assistant in the athletic department under the director of women’s athletics, Marge Trout. She was a four-year starter in both softball and basketball. Eshleman was part of a team that bridged eras in women’s athletics, as three of her four seasons were played without a PSAC Tournament. As a senior, she helped the Marauders to a program-record 20 victories, an AIAW regional championship, and allowed Millersville to host four games in the AIAW National Tournament. In the 1981-82 season, Eshleman ranked second in scoring with 12.5 points per game and led the team with 88 steals. She was selected to the Grove City Christmas All-Tournament Team and voted the team’s best defensive player by her teammates. In 2010, Eshleman was named to the program’s All-75th Season Team. 

As a softball player, Eshleman helped Millersville to winning seasons in each of the first three years. She took over as head coach in 1984 and produced three more winning seasons from 1984-87. She ranks second all-time in winning percentage.