Tennessee Softball Coach Karen Weekly Passes Away Following Tragic Incident
The University of Tennessee community is in shock and mourning after the sudden passing of legendary Lady Vols softball head coach Karen Weekly. She was 58 years old. Weekly died in a tragic vehicular incident near her Knoxville home on April 7, 2025. According to authorities, she was struck by a delivery truck while taking an evening walk, a routine habit she maintained to unwind after long days at the field.
A Legendary Coaching Career
Karen Weekly had dedicated 23 years to the University of Tennessee, initially co-leading the program alongside her former husband, Ralph Weekly, before assuming all head coaching responsibilities in 2022. Under her leadership, the Lady Vols became one of the nation’s premier programs, making eight trips to the Women’s College World Series and securing several SEC championships. Weekly’s win-loss record stood at 1,092-415 at the time of her death, making her one of the most successful coaches in NCAA softball history ¹ ².
Tributes and Reaction
The news of Weekly’s passing sent shockwaves throughout the University of Tennessee community, the NCAA softball world, and beyond. Tributes poured in from players, alumni, coaches, and fans, who remembered her as a mentor, trailblazer, and beloved member of the Volunteer family.
– *University of Tennessee Chancellor Donde Plowman*: “Karen Weekly was more than just a coach — she was a mentor, a trailblazer, a tireless leader, and a beloved member of the Volunteer family.”
– *Monica Abbott, Tennessee softball legend and Olympic gold medalist*: “Coach Weekly wasn’t just a coach. She was my compass. She believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Today, the world lost a force of nature.”
– *Meghan Gregg, Lady Vols standout*: “I still remember the first time Coach sat down with my parents in our kitchen and promised to make me better. She kept her promise every day. I owe everything to her.”
Memorial Service and Legacy
A public memorial service will be held at Thompson-Boling Arena this Saturday, expected to draw thousands of attendees, including NCAA officials, rival coaches, and former players. The University of Tennessee has also announced plans to commission a permanent statue in Weekly’s honor at the Sherri Parker Lee Softball Stadium, and the field will be renamed Weekly Field in her memory.
Immediate Impact on the Program
The Lady Vols softball team has postponed their scheduled practice and upcoming weekend games as they mourn the loss of their beloved coach. Assistant Head Coach Ashley Rogers has been named interim coach, and the team will continue to navigate the season under her leadership.
Karen Weekly’s legacy extends far beyond her impressive coaching record. She was a strong advocate for equality in sports, pushing tirelessly for better facilities, scholarships, and recognition for women’s athletics. Her impact on the University of Tennessee and the softball world will be felt for generations to come ¹.