TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama head coach Kumari Lewis announced on Monday the hiring of assistant coach, Ashley Ball, who arrives to Tuscaloosa after spending last season at Cal as an assistant coach.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to work with Ashley,” Lewis said. “She brings great energy and a range of experience from her time as an athlete at Tennessee and most recently coaching at Cal. I am really excited for what she will contribute to this staff and team. Roll Tide!”

Since 2024, Ball served as an assistant coach at Cal where they finished in ninth place at the 2025 NCAA Championships and placed fourth as a team at the 2025 ACC Championships. Prior to Cal, Ball began her coaching career at Old Dominion in 2023 as an assistant coach. A former SEC student-athlete, Ball was on the rowing team at Tennessee from 2018-21.

“I am beyond thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to join Kumari and the rest of the amazing staff here at Alabama.” Ball said. “Kumari’s vision for this program coupled with the University’s exceptional resources is truly unparalleled, and I’m humbled with the opportunity to be a part of it. I’m so excited to start working with this incredible staff and group of athletes. Row Tide!”

Ball Bio

• During her time at Cal, Ball coached and developed 3V8+, 4V8+ and the 5V8+ crews
• Helped led Cal to a ninth-place finish at the 2025 NCAA Championships
• Led the 3V8+ crew to an overall third-place finish at the 2025 ACC Championships while Cal, as a team, finished in fourth
• Guided the 3V8+ crew to a first-place finish at the Washington Dual
• Assisted with recruiting at Cal while collaborating with the coaching staff
• Prior to Cal, Ball spent one season at Old Dominion, where she coached and developed the V4+ crews in the spring
• Competed at Tennessee during her collegiate career, where she was a four-time SEC Academic Honor Roll honoree