Remembering Softball Legend Joan Joyce

Over the weekend, we learned the sad news that FAU Head Softball Coach Joan Joyce passed away at the age of 81. Joan was a true sports legend, and we are grateful for the 28 years she spent at FAU, modeling the best in personal and professional behavior for our student-athletes.

In 1994, while working as a golf pro, Joan was contacted about starting a softball program at FAU. She accepted the challenge head-on and built a program that has seen great success over the years. As the only head coach in program history, Joan amassed a 1002-674-1 record and guided FAU to 11 conference championships and 11 NCAA postseason tournaments. She was recognized as conference Coach of the Year eight times. Joan also served as head coach of the women’s golf team from 1996 to 2014.

Joan’s other accomplishments include 20 hall of fame inductions, All-America recognitions in multiple sports, and inclusion in the Guinness Book of World Records for fewest putts in a round of golf. Perhaps one of her most recognizable moments was striking out Baseball Hall of Famer Ted Williams in front of 17,000 people.

Our thoughts are with Joan’s family during this difficult time. Her legacy will live on at Florida Atlantic and across the country through the generations of young women she inspired to play — and excel at — softball and golf. Anyone wishing to share condolences or memories of Joan are encouraged to do so by clicking here.