CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Head softball coach Tyra Perry announced on Monday afternoon the addition of Sophia Tedesco as the program's director of operations.
"We are excited to welcome Sophia to the Illinois softball famILLy," Perry said. "She is known as a hard worker who is deeply dedicated to her craft. We are grateful to have someone with her passion for excellence in this position and we are confident that she will be a tremendous asset to our program."
Tedesco joins the Fighting Illini after spending the last two years in Macomb, Illinois, at Western Illinois. Most recently, she served as Director of Football Operations for the Leathernecks, coordinating team travel, alumni relations, budget management and scheduling. She also led the execution of all Western Illinois football camps, including sponsorship, operations, and budgeting.
Tedesco began at Western Illinois within its compliance department, managing the processing of all incoming student-athletes. In this role, she submitted medical hardship waivers and eligibility appeals to the NCAA. She earned her master's degree in sport management from Western Illinois in December 2025.
In 2023, Tedesco graduated with her bachelor's degree in business administration and political science from Saint Michael's College in Colchester, Vermont, where she gained experience in athletics operations, assisting with facilities scheduling and travel planning. Tedesco also served as a head manager and social media coordinator for the Saint Michael's men's basketball program.
"I am incredibly honored to join the Illinois softball program," Tedesco said. "Illinois has a strong tradition of excellence, and I am grateful to Coach Perry for the opportunity to contribute. I am excited to support our student-athletes while working closely with the coaching staff to ensure the program continues to succeed on and off the field."
