Elaine Michaelis: A legacy of leadership in women’s athletics at BYU
Elaine Michaelis, a trailblazer in collegiate women’s sports, passed away at 86 on Wednesday, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in women’s athletics.
A former coach of BYU women’s volleyball team and the first director of women’s intercollegiate athletics at BYU, Michaelis made a lasting impact on both the university and collegiate sports as a whole.
“Elaine Michaelis was not only a pioneer in women's athletics at BYU, but a pioneer in women's athletics period," said BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe. "The successes today in women's sports at BYU would not be possible without Elaine’s tremendous love, commitment and advocacy that she spent her life building and strengthening. On top of her legendary athletic accomplishments, Elaine was a beautiful person and dear friend to many.”
"Elaine Michaelis was an extraordinary coach, mentor, leader and friend. Her pioneering efforts to advance and elevate women’s athletics at BYU laid a strong foundation and set in motion a legacy of excellence that continues to propel our programs forward," said Liz Darger, BYU Sr. Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator. "Elaine was a Christ-centered leader who dedicated her life to helping others realize their full divine potential. Her profound influence extended far beyond the BYU community, leaving a lasting impact on collegiate athletics as a whole."
Coaching Excellence
Michaelis’ career as the head coach of BYU’s women’s volleyball team spanned 40 years, during which she amassed an impressive 886 career wins, ranking her second all-time in NCAA Division I volleyball victories at the time of her retirement. Her teams consistently excelled, qualifying for 30 national tournaments, including 20 NCAA tournaments.
Michaelis led BYU to a national runner-up finish in 1972-73 and a Final Four appearance in 1993. She also earned 23 conference championships during her tenure and developed numerous All-America players. Michaelis was known for her disciplined approach to coaching, fostering both skill and sportsmanship in her players.
Advocacy for Women’s Athletics
Michaelis played a key role in advocating for women’s sports at the national level. She served in several leadership positions, including as chair of the AIAW Volleyball Committee and member of the AIAW Executive Committee. Her efforts were pivotal in shaping the landscape of women’s volleyball and expanding opportunities for female athletes. In 1995, she became the director of women’s intercollegiate athletics at BYU, where she oversaw the success of multiple women’s sports programs.
Recognition and Honors
Michaelis’ contributions were widely recognized. She was inducted into the AVCA Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Utah Sports Hall of Fame in 2005. Her coaching was further honored with multiple Coach of the Year awards and in 2005, BYU named its volleyball court in her honor. Her legacy as a mentor and leader extended beyond her accomplishments on the court to her deep commitment to the advancement of women’s athletics.
Faith and Service
In addition to her coaching career, Michaelis was deeply involved in her faith, serving in various capacities within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her leadership and service reflected her Christ-centered values and commitment to helping others reach their full potential.
Elaine Michaelis’s legacy will endure through the countless lives she touched as a coach, mentor, and advocate. Her pioneering efforts in women’s athletics helped shape the landscape of collegiate sports, leaving a profound impact that continues to influence generations of athletes and coaches.