In this grounded theory research study, current/former collegiate softball players were surveyed using the Leadership Scale for Sports (LSS), followed by 13 open-ended questions, designed to solicit participants' preferences in character traits, behaviors, and strategies of a softball coach as they apply to individual and team performance, team cohesion, and emotional well-being. The primary research question was: What coaching leadership characteristics (BE), strategies (KNOW), and behaviors (DO) have the most favorable effect on positive outcomes of student athletes who play softball? Leader member exchange theory and the Army leadership requirements model were foundational theories in this research study. Survey results provided valuable data, which was sorted and chunked, and themes were established. Findings indicate participants in this study preferred a softball coach who is knowledgeable, professional, organized, and composed; who shows genuine care and concern for athletes; and who develops athletic skills, creates a competitive culture and esprit de corps, and has effective communication skills. These character traits, behaviors, and strategies are what a softball coach must Be, Know, and Do. Athletic managers at all levels of softball can use this information to hire and train the right coaches to increase the potential for individual and team performance, team cohesion, and emotional well-being among softball players of all ages. This research study was found to be both reliable and valid based on the use of the LSS, a well-established study in the sports research field, and results were comparable to a similar study from 2014 using the same LSS. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]