Lady Vols softball coach Karen Weekly believes the foundation of her team starts in the circle.
After a 10-0 start to the season, including a strong showing at the Shriners Children’s Clearwater Invitational against four Top 25 opponents, Weekly pointed to her pitching staff’s depth and versatility as a driving force behind the early success.
“Everything in our game starts in the circle,” Weekly said.
The Lady Vols have limited opponents to 25 hits and four runs through the opening stretch, consistently pitching out of jams and handing off innings seamlessly. Weekly noted there is still room for improvement, particularly in cutting down on free passes such as walks (20) and hit batters (9).
Tennessee’s depth has given Weekly flexibility with roles early in the season.
Sage Mardjetko has continued to develop after offseason surgery, and Weekly said the sophomore has looked as strong as ever since returning to full health. Erin Nuwer has begun to settle in after a typical freshman learning curve last season. Returning ace Karlyn Pickens has recorded 31 strikeouts in 24 1/3 innings of work.
Beyond performance, Weekly praised Pickens’ leadership and team-first mindset amid early rotation adjustments.
“Karlyn’s the ultimate team player,” Weekly said. “Whatever the game plan is, I’m 100 percent behind it. When I get the ball, I get the ball. When I don’t, I’m going to cheer on whoever’s out there.”
Weekly also credited pitching coach Megan Smith for the staff’s development, calling her one of the most underrated pitching coaches in the country for tailoring instruction to each pitcher’s strengths.
The cohesion within the staff has matched its talent. Weekly said pitchers understand the game plan in advance and embrace their roles, even when outings are limited by design.
As Tennessee prepares for tougher tests ahead, Weekly said that depth in the circle will be essential.
“We’re going to need a staff like that to win championships,” she said.
For now, the Lady Vols’ early dominance begins where Weekly expects it to; in the circle.
Tennessee turns its attention to the UAB Tournament, which begins Friday in Birmingham, Alabama. The Lady Vols open play against Missouri State at 5:30 p.m.
