[9] Under Candrea, the Arizona softball team has become one of the top programs in the United States and a perennial powerhouse in the NCAA.

The Arizona softball team has won eight Women's College World Series titles, in 1991, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2006, and 2007, all under Candrea.

[11] On March 5, 2019, Candrea won his 1,580th game tying him with Carol Hutchins of Michigan for most in NCAA Softball history.

The next day Candrea officially announced his retirement at a farewell news conference in McKale Center.

Conference tournament champion Team USA won its third consecutive gold medal at the Athens Olympic Games.

Candrea was married to Sue Ellen Hudson for 28 years until her tragic death in July 2004, 10 days before the Olympic Games.