Today, there continues to be a lack of women coaches in sports. 58% of head coaches in women's college sports are men. This means that many young women athletes do not have important women role models to look up to in positions of power. In light of these challenges, there are some phenomenal women coaches in NCAA history who have made an impact. These three women coaches have brought diverse perspectives and experiences with new approaches to coaching.

Pat Summitt: Former Women's Basketball Coach

University of Tennessee

This name is very well known in the topic of legendary women coaches. Pat Summitt was the head coach of Tennessee's women's basketball team. During her time as head coach, she led the Lady Vols to eight national championships, 18 final four appearances, and over 1,000 career wins, making her one of the winningest coaches in NCAA basketball history. What made Pat Summitt different was her advocacy for women's sports and gender equality. She was a tough coach who cared about her athletes on and off the court. 

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Diljeet Taylor: Women's Track & Field Head Coach

Brigham Young University

Diljeet Taylor is the head coach of the Brigham Young University (BYU) track and field team. Taylor became the head coach in 2019 after being the team's assistant coach for six years. Throughout her time as a head coach, she has produced success, winning the 2020 NCAA Championship. Taylor has been known for her physical and mental preparation, advocating for diversity in athletics. Prioritizing a positive relationship and fierce dedication to her athletes, Diljeet Taylor has a belief in her athletes that will keep them strong and fighting for NCAA gold. 

Dawn Staley: Women's Basketball Head Coach

University of South Carolina

Another highly respected current women's coach in the NCAA. Dawn Staley has won numerous awards for her coaching style and performance. Staley also has an impressive list of accolades from her player days. She has won 3 Olympic gold medals, Sports Illustrated Player of the Year, and she was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. As one of the few Black women coaches in the NCAA, Dawn Staley has been a huge champion for equal rights in basketball. She is a coach that understands what her athletes are going through and drives them to their collective goals. 

Women coaches have made tremendous strides in the world of sports, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations. Their impact on athletics and on society as a whole cannot be overstated. These women coaches have shown that they are more than capable of leading successful and winning programs. As we celebrate their achievements and honor their contributions, we can look forward to a future in which gender is no longer a barrier to success in the coaching profession.

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* Originally published on June 7, 2023, by Amanda Fassold