Tara Smith has been officially named the Jan Rock Zubrow '77 Head Coach of Softball at Cornell after successfully leading the team to significant achievements. Athletic Director Dr. Nicki Moore praised Smith's commitment and vision, highlighting her ability to foster a culture of excellence. In her first full season, Smith achieved the most wins for the program since 2013 and set multiple school records, signaling a promising future for Cornell Softball. Smith expressed gratitude for the opportunity and is eager to continue building on the progress made within the team and connecting with alumnae.

By the Numbers
  • Most wins for Cornell Softball since 2013.
  • Increased the team's victory total by five games and Ivy League wins by two.
  • Set single-season program records for on-base percentage (.421), walks (156), and stolen bases (61).
  • Achieved the second-highest batting average (.346) and slugging percentage (.536) in program history.
  • Five players earned All-Ivy honors, with Lauren Holt named Ivy League Player of the Year.
State of Play
  • Smith's leadership has transformed team dynamics and performance metrics.
  • The program is experiencing renewed drive and focus, aiming for ongoing success.
  • Players exhibit strong support and commitment to both personal and team development.
What's Next

As Smith takes on her new role full-time, expectations are high for continued improvement and competitiveness within the Ivy League. Future recruiting strategies may focus on building a deep talent pool to sustain program success. Increased engagement with alumnae could enhance team culture and provide mentorship opportunities for current players.

Bottom Line

Tara Smith鈥檚 elevation to head coach reflects a strategic commitment to excellence in Cornell Softball. Her proven results and strong leadership skills provide a foundation for future success, positioning the program as a rising contender in collegiate softball.