UNC Asheville Mourns Death of Head Track and Field Coach Joel Williams

Joel Williams, a fixture of UNC Asheville track and field for more than 18 years, died Saturday, Feb. 7 after a battle with cancer, the university announced. Williams served 13 seasons as an assistant before being promoted to head coach in 2020, and one account notes he completed five seasons as head coach.

Williams' death removes a long-standing presence from the Bulldogs and the Asheville running community. During his tenure, he coached more than 100 athletes to all-conference honors and helped guide the program to 12 appearances at the NCAA National Championships, milestones that reflect steady program growth and regional competitiveness. A photo contributed by UNC Asheville accompanied the announcement. Memorial arrangements have not been announced.

Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone framed Williams' influence as broader than wins and titles. “The impact that Joel made on our university extends far beyond wins, records and championships,” Cone said. “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.” Cone added, “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. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, alumni, and the many student-athletes and coaches who respected, admired and loved him.”

Officials noted Williams was known for his passion for teaching technique, his pursuit of knowledge and his belief in the power of sport. Teammates, current athletes and alumni are likely to recall his role as a mentor and advocate both on and off the track, a characterization reflected in program tributes and the metrics of athlete honors and NCAA appearances.

For Buncombe County residents, Williams' death matters as a loss to a local institution that develops student-athletes and draws regional competition to Asheville. UNC Asheville's track meets and training programs are part of the county's sports calendar and contribute to local activity at the university and surrounding businesses that host events and visiting teams.

Memorial arrangements have not been announced. The athletics department is expected to share further details and any planned campus tributes as they become available, and those who follow UNC Asheville track and field will be watching for opportunities to honor Williams' contribution to the Bulldogs and to Asheville's broader running community.