Cara Parker takes the helm as head coach of ABAC Fillies softball.
TIFTON, Ga. — Cara Parker has joined Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College as the new head coach of the Fillies softball team. Parker takes the reins from Mike Reed, who retired at the end of the 2026 season after three years at the helm and several more as an assistant coach.
“Cara Parker is a winner who knows the recruiting world and the talent needed to help continue our winning tradition at ABAC,” said ABAC athletic director Charles Wimberly. “I am so pleased to have her as a part of our athletic program and department.”
No stranger to college softball or South Georgia, Parker spent four seasons as an assistant at Mercer University, where she helped the Bears win the Southern Conference title in 2025, before becoming a private softball instructor. She played her high school ball at Lowndes County High School before a successful career at Appalachian State University. She has also served as an assistant coach at Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville, Fla.
“It’s awesome with my roots in South Georgia,” Parker said. “I like how this team plays.” Parker thanked not only Wimberly for the opportunity, but also Reed for his work in building the program.
“Having been an accomplished NCAA Division I student-athlete prior to becoming an NCAA Division I assistant coach, Cara Parker brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our softball program,” Wimberly said. “Cara has a passion for the game and will most definitely continue to lead the ABAC softball program’s long history of winning and tradition.”
As a college athlete, Parker said the biggest compliment she received was, “You’re fun to watch.” She wants fans to have the same experience at ABAC games.
“The reason I got into coaching is that I want the athletes who play for me to have a great college experience,” Parker said.
Entering only its third season of NAIA competition, the Fillies program continues to grow. Parker said the support of the administration, coaches, players, and families gives ABAC many opportunities for success.
During Reed’s three seasons as head coach, the Fillies won the GCAA and Mid-Atlantic District championships in 2024, ABAC’s final NJCAA season, and advanced to the national tournament.
Wimberly said Reed helped build ABAC’s softball tradition over the past 15 years as an assistant and head coach. “Coach Reed has pride for our college and will always be a major supporter and help to ABAC softball. His knowledge and support will most definitely help Cara as she takes the reins, and we look for a bright future and tradition to continue to build under her leadership.”
About ABAC
Founded in 1908, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College provides a personalized, hands-on learning experience for students across Georgia and beyond.With a strong focus on academic excellence, affordability, and student success, ABAC offers more than a dozen bachelor’s degrees and is recognized for its leadership in agriculture, business, humanities, nursing, sciences, and education. ABAC serves as a vital resource for the region, preparing graduates who are ready to lead their communities and careers.
