ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — The Big Red softball team will have familiar leadership next year.

Cornell Athletics Director Dr. Nicki Moore has named Tara Smith the full-time head coach. Smith served as interim head coach this past season.

“Tara has earned this opportunity through her unwavering commitment to our student-athletes, her leadership and intentionality with the team, and the results she has helped achieve both on and off the field,” Moore said. “In her first season at the helm, she operated with a clear vision for success while fostering a culture of excellence, accountability and care.”

According to Cornell Athletics, the Big Red set single-season school records for on-base percentage, walks, and stolen bases in 2026. The team also recorded its highest fielding percentage since 2018.

Smith joined Cornell’s coaching staff in 2019. She’s a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.