ITHACA, N.Y. -- Dr. Nicki Moore, the Meakem & Smith Director of Athletics and Physical Education, announced Thursday that there will be a change in leadership of the Cornell Softball team, effective immediately. Julie Farlow '97 had spent the past 10 seasons as the Jan Rock Zubrow '77 Head Coach. Tara Tembey, who has served as a Cornell Assistant Coach since 2019, has been appointed as interim head coach through the 2025-26 season.

"I want to extend my sincere thanks to Coach Farlow for her significant contributions to Cornell Softball over the years," said Moore. "As a Hall of Fame player and a dedicated coach, her impact on the program and its student-athletes will always be an integral part of Cornell Softball's history."

During her tenure, Farlow posted a 107-219-1 record (51-109 Ivy). She first joined the Big Red as an assistant coach in 2002, contributing to three Ivy League championships under Hall of Fame head coach Dick Blood. Farlow was inducted into the Cornell Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012 as one of the program's most outstanding players.

"We are committed to fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the field, and we are confident that Tara Tembey will continue to build on that vision," Moore added. "Tara has demonstrated strong leadership throughout her career, including her experience as head coach of the U18 Great Britain National Team. We look forward to her leadership as we work together to strengthen the program's foundation and deepen engagement with our alumni and supporters."

While the department will continue to evaluate the long-term direction of the program, this appointment presents an opportunity to focus on building momentum and fostering greater community support, ensuring that the program is well-positioned for future success.

"We are excited about the future of Cornell Softball and are eager to see Tara lead the team through the remainder of this season and through the next," Moore concluded. "This is an important time for our alumni and supporters to reconnect with the program, and to support our incredible current student-athletes. Given the well-known enthusiasm and dedication of Cornell alumni and the opportunity we have to build a stronger community around this program, we look forward to working with them to elevate Cornell Softball to new heights."