Elaine Michaelis, BYU Women’s Sports Icon, Passes Away at 86
Elaine Michaelis, a pioneering figure in women’s sports at BYU, has died.
Michaelis passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 86.
A revered head coach for BYU’s women’s volleyball program, Michaelis finished her career with a remarkable record of 886-225-5 over 42 seasons.
In 2005, BYU honored her legacy by naming the court in Smith Fieldhouse “Elaine Michaelis Court.” She joins a select group of individuals, including legendary football coach LaVell Edwards, who have had athletic facilities at BYU named in their honor.
Five years ago, Michaelis was inducted into the inaugural class of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Hall of Fame. She was one of 23 to receive this prestigious recognition.
Michaelis’ tenure as women’s volleyball coach was extraordinary, but her influence on women’s athletics at BYU has been lasting and significant.
Together with former BYU women’s athletic director Lu Wallace, Michaelis was instrumental in advancing opportunities for female athletes at the university.
After retiring as head coach in 2002, Michaelis served as the women’s athletic director at BYU until September 2004, when the department merged under the leadership of current athletic director Tom Holmoe.
A former athlete herself, Michaelis participated in sports at BYU when teams were considered “extramural” events. In 1959, she threw a no-hitter and a perfect game during a doubleheader in Colorado.
Soon after her athletic career, Michaelis took on the role of overseeing BYU’s extramural and intramural programs.
In addition to coaching volleyball, Michaelis also served as head coach for women’s basketball, field hockey, and softball.
Michaelis was present at BYU during the passing of Title IX in 1972, and she, alongside Wallace, played a crucial role in improving opportunities for women athletes, including better facilities, scholarships, and travel accommodations.
On Title IX’s 50th anniversary, BYU honored Michaelis by having her speak at the celebration as a keynote speaker.
Even after retiring from coaching and administration at BYU, Michaelis was often seen supporting BYU women’s sports, attending events like volleyball and basketball games.
