Megan Rhodes Smith named finalist for National Assistant Coach of the Year
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 12:00 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Megan Rhodes Smith, the associate head coach and pitching coach for Tennessee softball, has been named one of 25 finalists for the 2026 D1 Softball National Assistant Coach of the Year. Her leadership has seen Tennessee's pitchers record 13 no-hitters and four perfect games since 2021, with five no-hitters in the 2026 season alone. Rhodes Smith’s coaching has contributed to the development of multiple 20-game winners, including two accomplished in the 2024 season. The Lady Vols have also achieved seven NFCA All-America honors during her tenure. The selection for the award reflects the impact of her coaching on the team's performance in recent seasons.
- •Megan Rhodes Smith is a finalist for the 2026 National Assistant Coach of the Year.
- •Tennessee's pitchers have achieved 13 no-hitters since 2021.
- •The 2026 season featured five no-hitters under her guidance.
- •Tennessee has produced four 20-game winners in the last six seasons.
- •The program earned seven NFCA All-America honors since 2021.
- 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Megan Rhodes Smith named National Assistant Coach of the Year finalist
"Megan Rhodes Smith named 2026 National Assistant Coach of the Year finalist.
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