UA Pine Bluff Athletics

Michael Bumpers enters his eighth season as head coach of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff softball program after being named interim head coach in the summer of 2018. The interim designation was removed in July 2019, making him the program's permanent leader.

Since taking over the Golden Lions, Bumpers has guided the program to steady growth on and off the field. Under his leadership, UAPB has produced multiple All-Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) performers, including the 2025 SWAC Freshman Pitcher of the Year. His teams have continued to improve in several key statistical categories within the conference while maintaining a strong commitment to academic success, posting an average team GPA of 3.3 during his tenure.

Prior to leading the softball program, Bumpers served as UAPB's head baseball coach from 2008–10 after spending 10 seasons as an assistant coach from 1997–2007. During his time with the baseball program, he helped develop numerous All-SWAC performers, including SWAC Pitcher of the Year Justin Moring and Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American Matt Pace.

Beyond the collegiate level, Bumpers has coached with the Arkansas Worth Softball and Rawlings Prospects Baseball organizations, helping develop elite student-athletes while contributing to multiple state and national championship teams.

Following the 2010 baseball season, Bumpers transitioned into athletic administration at UAPB, where he has continued to serve the department through leadership, student-athlete development, and program support.

A proud Army combat veteran, Bumpers served with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment during Operation Enduring Freedom (2003–04) under the 489th Engineer Battalion (Bravo Company). His military service reflects the discipline, leadership, and commitment that have defined his coaching career.

Bumpers earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and a Master of Science in Sports Administration from American Military University.

As a student-athlete, Bumpers competed in both football and baseball at the University of Arkansas from 1990–93 before playing professionally in baseball for five seasons.

Bumpers and his wife, Tiffany, are the proud parents of two children, Desiree and Elliott. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Sigma Beta Delta, the International Honor Society for Business, Management, and Administration.