CEDAR CITY, Utah – Southern Utah University Athletics has announced a contract extension for head softball coach Don Don Williams, securing her leadership of the Thunderbirds program through the 2028 season.
Interim Director of Athletics Tom Higbee Said
"Don Don has done an outstanding job building our softball program the right way. Her teams continue to show competitive growth in the WAC, success in the classroom, and a strong culture that represents Southern Utah University with pride. We are excited to extend her contract and look forward to the continued progress of the program under her leadership."
Williams, who is entering her seventh season at the helm of SUU softball, has guided the Thunderbirds through a period of sustained growth both on and off the field since being hired in August of 2019. Most recently, she led Southern Utah to a third-place regular-season finish in the Western Athletic Conference in 2025, along with a second consecutive WAC Tournament appearance. The Thunderbirds posted a 13-11 league record, earned multiple all-conference honors, and continued to excel academically.
Coach Don Don Williams Said
"I'm grateful for this one-year extension to my contract through 2028, which builds on the support I've received since joining Southern Utah University seven years ago. It reflects the strong leadership from the top down, starting with President Mindy Benson and Interim Athletic Director Tom Higbee, whose commitment to our athletics programs helps create an environment where growth is possible.
I'm especially thankful to our players, assistant coaches, administration, and dedicated supporters who have poured their energy into this program. Together, we've built a solid foundation, and now we're looking ahead with excitement.
The brand-new all-turf field gives our team a premier home to compete and develop. Combined with our move to the Big Sky Conference in the summer of 2026, these steps position Southern Utah softball for continued progress and higher levels of success.
My focus remains on fostering growth in our student-athletes, on the field, in the classroom, and in life, while building a program our Thunderbird family can take pride in for years to come. Thank you to everyone who believes in what we're doing here in Cedar City. The best is yet to come."
Williams reached a major career milestone during the 2024 season, earning her 700th career coaching victory, while leading the Thunderbirds to one of the most successful seasons in recent program history, including their first-ever WAC Tournament appearance. Under her guidance, SUU has seen significant offensive improvement, record-setting performances, and consistent academic success, highlighted by 11 NFCA All-America Scholar-Athletes in 2024.
The contract extension reflects Southern Utah's commitment to long-term stability and continued growth within the softball program as it builds momentum in the Western Athletic Conference.
On Deck
The Thunderbirds are set to open the season this week with a string of games in Arizona. The T-Birds will start at the University of Arizona on Thursday, February 5, before heading to the GCU Kickoff Classic in Phoenix over the weekend.
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