University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
UNC Asheville Mourns the Passing of Head Track & Field Coach Joel Williams
02.09.2026 | General, Track and Field
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – UNC Asheville mourns the passing of head track & field coach Joel Williams, who passed away on Saturday, February 7, after a courageous battle with cancer.
"The impact that Joel made on our university extends far beyond wins, records and championships," said Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. "He was a man of deep character who led with humility, integrity and a genuine love for his student-athletes. Joel had a rare ability to make everyone around him better, and his presence will be profoundly missed across our campus and within the track and field community."
Williams joined the Bulldog family more than 18 years ago, spending 13 seasons as an assistant coach before being promoted to head coach of the track & field program in 2020. Throughout his tenure, Williams elevated the program to new heights, coaching more than 100 individuals to all-conference honors and helping lead the program to 12 appearances at the NCAA National Championships.
Beyond records and championships, Williams will be remembered for the lives he changed.
He was known for his passion for teaching technique, his constant pursuit of knowledge and his belief in the transformative power of sport. He built meaningful relationships with his student-athletes, serving not only as their coach but as a mentor, role model and lifelong advocate for their success both on and off the track.
"Joel's legacy will live on through the countless young men and women he influenced, the culture he helped build, and the standards of excellence he set for our program," Cone added. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, alumni, and the many student-athletes and coaches who respected, admired and loved him."
Details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available.
