While Geno Auriemma, head coach of the UConn Huskies women’s basketball team, has guided his program to national dominance, his wife Kathy Auriemma has quietly played a foundational role in his success. Known affectionately by players as “Mrs. A,” Kathy is much more than a coach’s spouse—she’s a steady presence, a trusted confidante, and, for many of Geno’s players, a second mother.
The couple’s story spans over four decades of marriage, three children, and countless UConn victories. But behind the wins and championships is a partnership grounded in mutual respect, faith, and shared history.
They Met in College and Never Looked Back
Luigi “Geno” Auriemma, now 70 years old, first met Kathy in December 1972 when both were attending Montgomery County Junior College in Pennsylvania. Geno was playing basketball, while Kathy was a cheerleader. As fate would have it, after one of his games, the team had plans to meet up—but only Kathy showed. She asked for a ride home, and Geno agreed. As he later recalled in an interview with Makers, that spontaneous drive turned into something much more: “The rest is history.”
Not long after, their relationship blossomed as they supported each other through school and early career decisions. Geno transferred to West Chester University, graduating in 1977, while Kathy stood by his side as he pursued coaching.
Married Since 1978, and Still Going Strong
In 1978, shortly after Geno took a job as an assistant coach at St. Joseph’s University, he and Kathy got married. At the time, they were young, ambitious, and—as Geno noted—“broke but madly in love.” It was the beginning of a lifelong journey together, one that would take them from modest beginnings to national prominence in the world of women’s college basketball.
Their marriage has stood the test of time, surviving the pressures of fame, travel, and an intense coaching schedule. Geno often credits Kathy as his most trusted source of guidance, describing her as the person he looks to when navigating challenges—on or off the court.
Building a Family Together
The Auriemmas are parents to three children: Alysa, Jenna, and Michael. Alysa, their eldest daughter, followed in her father’s footsteps to attend UConn and later pursued a career in theater in New York City. Eventually returning to Connecticut, she became an English teacher at Miss Porter’s School, where she also coaches basketball—perhaps proof that the coaching gene runs in the family.
Jenna, their second daughter, is married to Todd Stigliano, and the couple gave Geno and Kathy their first grandchild, Christian James, in 2010. They’ve since welcomed two more grandchildren, making the Auriemmas proud grandparents of three.
While Michael has maintained a more private life, the bond between the Auriemma siblings remains strong.
Kathy’s Role as the UConn “Team Mom”
Though Kathy doesn’t have an official title with the UConn program, her role is essential. Over the years, players have come to view her as the emotional anchor of the team. Whether it’s offering advice, checking in on someone feeling homesick, or preparing a home-cooked meal, she has earned a reputation for being warm, approachable, and nurturing.
In an ESPN feature, former UConn star Stefanie Dolson described the dynamic best: “When you think of the brains of UConn basketball, you think of Coach Auriemma. But when you think of the heart, you think of Mrs. A.”
Other players echoed similar sentiments, praising Kathy’s ability to connect and comfort. Her natural warmth and genuine interest in the players’ well-being have made her an irreplaceable figure within the program.
Holding Down the Fort at Home
While Geno traveled extensively for recruiting, games, and media obligations, Kathy held things down at home. Their daughter Alysa once compared her to Olivia Pope from Scandal—a capable, no-nonsense presence who kept the family grounded.
As a former English teacher, Kathy used her background to instill discipline and a love of learning in her children. She wasn’t a disciplinarian in the traditional sense, but her quiet authority and emotional intelligence encouraged good behavior through guidance rather than fear.
A Marriage Rooted in Mutual Respect
What makes the Auriemmas’ relationship stand out is the deep mutual admiration they share. Geno, despite his commanding presence on the sidelines, often speaks with vulnerability when discussing Kathy. He credits her with helping him stay humble and focused during his long and high-profile coaching career.
Geno has referred to Kathy as his “compass”—someone who tells him the truth when others won’t. Whether it’s about how he handled a player, a press conference, or a coaching decision, she remains honest and steady in her feedback.
Private, But Powerful
Despite her importance to the program, Kathy Auriemma tends to keep a low profile. She’s not active on social media and rarely appears in the spotlight. Yet, her presence is felt behind the scenes in every UConn season, Final Four run, and championship celebration.
From cheerleader to lifelong partner, mother, and unofficial team mentor, Kathy has worn many hats—but always with grace, resilience, and love. While Geno Auriemma may be the most decorated coach in women’s college basketball, Kathy Auriemma is the heart of the family and, to many, the heart of the Huskies.
