Oregon State softball head coach Laura Berg is opening the curtain and giving fans a personal health update.
Berg was recently diagnosed with Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack hair follicles, resulting in hair loss.
In a social media post published Tuesday, Berg explained that each diagnosis is different and the condition affects people of all ages. It’s also unpredictable, with hair loss and regrowth occurring at different times.
A message from Coach Berg:pic.twitter.com/quKHbrWhQu
— Oregon State Softball (@BeaverSoftball) November 12, 2026
“Beyond the physical effects, Alopecia Areata can also have an emotional and psychological impact,” Berg said. “Changes in physical appearance can affect confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Understanding, compassion, and support are important for anyone navigating this diagnosis. I want to be an advocate for anyone that may be dealing with Alopecia. I am grateful it is not a life-threatening disease, yet it is still devastating to lose all of your hair.”
Raising Awareness and Being an Advocate
Berg, who is known for her blonde ponytail and for wearing a baseball helmet while coaching third base, is using her new diagnosis to advocate for others who are struggling with their diagnosis. She’s asking those who are able to donate hair to Wigs for Kids, an organization that helps provide hair replacement systems to children experiencing hair loss…