Rutgers Athletics Hall of Fame Coach Pat Willis Passes Away at 82

Pat Willis, the esteemed former softball coach who was honored with induction into the Rutgers Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022, has died at the age of 82, as confirmed by the university. Her passing occurred on June 11.

Willis concluded her coaching career in 2006 after leading the Rutgers softball program for 27 years. During her tenure, her teams achieved a remarkable 600 wins and celebrated three seasons with over 30 victories.

In addition to her softball success, Willis served as an assistant coach for the Rutgers women's basketball team for five years under the guidance of Theresa Grentz, playing a key role in the program's national championship victory in 1982.

Among the standout players who thrived under her mentorship were 1998 Big East Player of the Year Angie Catalano and 1993 All-American Carla Camino. Throughout her coaching career, she guided a total of fifty athletes to all-conference honors and approximately thirty to all-region accolades.

A graduate of Julia Richman High School in Manhattan and Troy University, Willis initially worked as a physical education instructor at Sayreville High School before joining the Rutgers coaching staff.

This news serves as a reminder of the lasting impact coaches have on their players and the community.