Alumni Spotlight: Karen Sanchelli

July 2, 2015

Gamecock History

Four-year letter-winner 1985-88
Two-time first-team NFCA All-American catcher (1987-88)
Three-time first-team NFCA All-Region (1986-88)
Ranks in the top 10 in Gamecock history in batting average, on-base and slugging percentages
Led the team in batting average, hits and slugging percentage three times each

Karen Sanchelli “was sold” on South Carolina and chose coming here over Michigan, Michigan State, Oklahoma State and a few others after meeting those involved with the team and athletics overall.
With a connection to her high school on the athletics staff, Sanchelli thought all the pieces were falling into place to play for the Gamecocks.
Her favorite things about playing in the Garnet and Black were her teammates, the best in the world. They always had a lot of fun together.
Sanchelli played for two coaches at South Carolina, both great in her mind.

Sanchelli married Bobby Johns, and they have a daughter.
Karen Johns coached collegiately (Florida & Virginia) and internationally for many years, leading the 2011 US Junior National Team to a gold medal.
She is the athletic director for the Trussville (Ala.) City Schools and head softball coach at Trussville High.