ROCK HILL, S.C. -- Former Winthrop University volleyball head coach Cathy Ivester passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025.
Ivester first guided the program from 1984 to 1988 before stepping away to teach in the public school system. She returned to the sidelines in 1997 for her second tenure. Over her nine seasons, Ivester compiled a 186-136 (.578) record, helping lay the foundation for the program's growth in the Big South era.
Under her leadership, the Lady Eagles became a consistent contender in the conference, finishing runner-up in the Big South Tournament and tying for second in the regular season during her final year. That 1997 squad also set the school record for NCAA Division I wins with 24 victories.
Memorials may be made to volleyball scholarships at:
www.winthrop.edu/advancement/make-a-gift-volleyball.aspx
Obituary can be found here:
www.brattonfuneralhome.com/obituary/Catherine-Ivester
