FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason University softball head coach Justin Walker has named alumna Emily "EJ" Bankson as the program's new assistant coach.

"We are thrilled to welcome EJ back to George Mason Softball," said Walker. "As one of our former student-athletes, she understands what it means to wear the Green & Gold and the culture we've worked hard to build. EJ's passion for the game, ability to connect with student-athletes, and commitment to developing the whole person make her a tremendous addition to our staff. We're excited to have her back home and can't wait to see the positive impact she'll have on our program."

As assistant coach, Bankson will work with the outfielders, oversee alumni relations, assist with the Mighty Masons program, and serve as the camp scouting assistant.

Bankson joins the Patriots after spending the 2026 season as an assistant coach at Morehead State. While with the Eagles, she served as camp coordinator and equipment manager, assisted with field maintenance, and coached the hitters and outfielders. As the team's hitting coach, Bankson helped lead the Eagles' offense to its second-highest batting average in 11 years, the most home runs in nine years, the program's second-best slugging percentage and on-base percentage in nine years, and the fewest strikeouts since 1999.

Bankson returns to Fairfax after a standout collegiate career at George Mason. During her time with the Patriots, she was a three-time Provost Scholar, a VaSID Second Team All-State selection, and was named George Mason's Most Improved Female Athlete. She concluded her senior season in Green & Gold with a batting average above .300.

"Fairfax and George Mason softball were huge facilitators in my growth as a player and as a young woman," Bankson said. "Being back at the school I decided I wanted to attend when I was in the eighth grade is an honor and a privilege. Coach Walker was an integral part of who I have grown into as a teammate, an employee, and, more importantly, a person, and I am so excited to assist him in helping other young women do the same. Coach Walker has built a staff that not only has knowledge, but also energy and a love for both the game and the players. I am excited to be thrown into a culture that has a foundation of family, and I look forward to helping this team continue to succeed and reach even new heights. As always, s'ko Pats!"

Bankson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Studies with a concentration in Childhood Development from George Mason University in 2021. She remained at Mason to complete a Master of Education in Special Education Adapted Curriculum and a Graduate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, both in 2022.

A native of Windsor, Virginia, Bankson enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and being with family and friends.