Platt Tech softball coach Sue Murphy is closing in on 400 career victories.

According to information provided to the Register via an e-mail, Murphy has 396 wins.

Murphy has coached the Panthers for 24 seasons. She previously had a four-year stint at O’Brien Tech and spent one year at Whitney Tech.

At Platt Tech, Murphy has guided the Panthers to 15 league titles and the team has finished as the runner-up on four occasions.

It’s likely that Murphy will reach the milestone sometime next week. The Panthers (3-3) have three games both this week and next week.

“It’s a tribute to the great kids that allowed me to teach the fundamentals,” Murphy said. “A lot of times we don’t get kids coming in who are the most successful players right away, so it’s nice to be able to teach the basics, the fundamentals.”

Murphy says she still keeps in contact with many former players.

About 15 years ago, Murphy, with a growing family, decided to conduct practices at 5:30 a.m. It’s a tradition that continues to this day.

“I don’t need to do it anymore (morning practice), but I think the (players) prefer it,” Murphy said.

This season has been one of Murphy’s most challenging. Platt Tech is young and inexperienced and starts five freshman, but Murphy says the team is responding.

“Last year we graduated probably the most talented class I’ve ever had in my 24 years,” Murphy said. “But we’re doing much better than I thought we would. The freshmen have been amazing. It’s been a pleasant surprise.”