Emerald Grijalva became the PVCC Head Softball Coach ahead of the 2026-2027 season. Grijalva joined PVCC as an assistant coach during the 2025–26 season, where she worked closely with the pitching staff. A former standout pitcher, she brings extensive playing experience and valuable coaching insight to her new role. Prior to joining the Pumas, Grijalva served as both an assistant coach and interim head coach at Mesa Community College.

A graduate of Nogales High School, Grijalva compiled a 44–10 career record while earning two Team MVP honors, four First Team All-Conference selections, and 2014 Player of the Year recognition. She continued her softball career at Phoenix College, where she posted an 18–4 record as a freshman and helped lead the team to the NJCAA Division II National Tournament.

Grijalva started her collegiate career at Phoenix College, transferring to Mesa Community College for her sophomore year.  As a sophomore, she recorded a 14–13 record with a 3.81 ERA and 92 strikeouts, earning Team MVP honors. She then transferred to Arizona Christian University, where she led the NAIA in innings pitched (109) during the shortened 2020 season, posting an 11–3 record with a 1.48 ERA and throwing a no-hitter against Park University–Gilbert. Grijalva concluded her collegiate career at Southeastern University in Florida.