Tennessee softball’s 2026 season is right around the corner. As the Lady Vols look to return to Oklahoma City for the Women’s College World Series and break through to their first-ever national title, head coach Karen Weekly, pitcher Karlyn Pickens and position players Alannah Leach and Ella Dodge met with the media.
They were asked about Pickens’ upcoming senior year, where the roster is at, the early-season tournaments and more.
Pickens enters the year as arguably the best pitcher in the country. She will begin her senior year as one of the most decorated players in the sport, already holding the record for the fastest pitch ever. In 2025, she posted a 1.17 ERA and 25-11 record over 44 outings and 34 starts.
Tennessee’s season kicks off with the NFCA Leadoff Classic on Thursday, Feb. 5, in Clearwater, Fla., against BYU. Then, it’s games against Liberty, Rutgers, Boston College and Oregon to round out the trip.
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HC Karen Weekly
P Karlyn Pickens
OF Alannah Leach
UT Ella Dodge
