NEWS RELEASES

June 10, 2024- WeCOACH to Host 2024 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Programs

May 28, 2024 – WeCOACH Announces New Section-Wide Partnership with USTA Missouri Valley

April 17, 2024 – WeCOACH TEAMS UP WITH DIGITAL COMMUNITY PLATFORM VOICEINSPORT TO KEEP GIRLS IN THE GAME

March 5, 2024 – WeCOACH Announces New Section-Wide Partnership with USTA Southern

February 13, 2024 – WeCOACH Announces New Two-Year Agreement with the Missouri Valley Conference

February 9, 2024 – Marines Announced as WeCOACH Mission Partner

February 7, 2024 – WeCOACH Announces 2023-24 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

January 19, 2024 – WeCOACH Announces Hudl as Inaugural Mission Partner

January 16, 2024 – WeCOACH Announces Jostens as Official WeCELEBRATE Moments Partner

January 8, 2024 – New WeCOACH Board Members Announced; Tucker Begins Term as Board President

Archived News Releases

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June 10, 2024 – WeCOACH is proud to announce the 53rd class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) and the 7th class of NCAA Academy 2.0, taking place June 16-19, in Denver, Colorado. These transformational Academies, hosted in partnership with the NCAA, provide multi-day growth and leadership development for women coaches across all sports and collegiate levels, including two-year and four-year colleges.

A total of 119 women coaches will convene in Denver, with 95 participating in the NCAA WCA and 24 engaging in the advanced NCAA Academy 2.0 program. These women represent 25 different sports, including five of the six NCAA emerging sports and come from a diverse range of institutions including NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, NAIA, 3C2A, NJCAA, and NWAC.

“The NCAA is proud to once again partner with WeCOACH to host the 2024 NCAA Women Coaches Academy and NCAA Academy 2.0. The NCAA Leadership Development Office serves to educate and empower student-athletes, coaches and athletics administrators through transformative experiences that develop strong, effective leaders, cultivate an inclusive community and enhance the college sports landscape”, said DeeDee Merritt, NCAA Managing Director of Leadership Development. “These Academies for women coaches align with our mission and have had tremendous results in supporting, advancing and retaining women coaches in collegiate athletics. WeCOACH performs a valuable service in providing support and development for women coaches across the collegiate sports landscape. Collaborative efforts such as this allow us to expand our reach and broaden our impact.”

A special addition this year, WeCOACH will honor the five recipients of the 2023-24 Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Jostens. Academy participants will also have a chance to learn from the honorees during a keynote conversation session presented by Hudl.

“The Academy experience is truly magical in terms of the powerful knowledge gained and lasting relationships formed. Our graduates leave feeling empowered, inspired and motivated to be the best possible leaders for the student-athletes they coach, and the data demonstrates our Academy graduates remain in the coaching profession at a higher rate than the national average,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH. “Thanks to generous donor support, we awarded over $50,000 in scholarship funds to 43 coaches, furthering our mission to support women coaches and ensuring affordable access for all WeCOACH programming.”

Over 2,200 graduates have participated in the NCAA WCA, a program designed for women coaches to elevate their holistic coaching effectiveness by learning advanced leadership skills and strategies that directly affect their personal and team success. Participants focus on non-sport-specific concepts in an environment that fosters inclusion across the sports community. The NCAA Academy 2.0, exclusively created for WCA graduates, is a master-learning opportunity in a small class setting that progresses on the leadership, strategies, and knowledge gained from their WCA experience.

WeCOACH thanks the NCAA for its longstanding support of these transformational programs along with this year’s Academy Partners: Marines, Hudl, VALD, Athlete Assessments, Gatorade Performance Partner, Holbrook, Jostens, Legends of The Ball, Inc., Natasha Watley Foundation, TheTucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport , This One Media and The Sports Bra Project.

June 17-19 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #53 Participants:

Alex Albert, University of Saint Joseph, Head Coach, Women’s Swimming & Diving

Sarah Anderson, University of Cincinnati, Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field

Monica Armstrong, University of California-Santa Cruz, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Keela Austin, Fordham University, Assistant Coach, Track & Field

Sade Ayinde, University at Albany, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer

Jordan Barton, Bethany College, Head Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Meghan Bernard, IU-Indianapolis, Assistant Coach, Women’s Tennis

Keilee Bessho, Claremont-Mudd-Scripps, Assistant Coach, Women’s Golf

Maggie Billingsley, Stanislaus State University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Jennifer Buckman, University of Chicago, Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Kelly Buikus, University of the Cumberlands, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Sandra Bullock, Southwestern Oregon Community College, Head Coach, M&W Swimming

Olga Camacho, Skyline College, Head Coach, Women’s Wrestling

Donna Carr, Davis & Elkins College, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Ashley Chagnon, Clark College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Valerie Clarke, Converse University, Head Coach, Field Hockey

Vicmari Cockrill, Tennessee State University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Rebecca Congel, Carthage College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Angela DaPrato, Cosumnes River College, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Mercede Daugherty, Hope College, Assistant Coach, Softball

Lauren Davenport, Notre Dame of Maryland University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Colleen Dawson, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Caitlin Desaulniers, University of New England, Assistant Coach, Women’s Rugby

Nikki Dieball, Southern Nazarene University, Associate Head Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Kennedy Fabian, Wright State University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Megan Fox, Chestnut Hill College, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Brandie Garcia, Ohlone College, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer

Casey Garza, University of Massachusetts Boston, Strength Coach, Weightlifting

Dawn Grant, Swarthmore College, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Alex Guyton, Purdue University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Hannah Hagy, Trinity College, Head Coach, M&W Swimming & Diving

Amanda Hansen, Occidental College, Assistant Coach, Softball

Christine Hipa, Occidental College, Head Coach, Softball

Kaitlyn Hooper-Bell, University of Redlands, Assistant Coach, Softball

Thannia Huerta, Madera Community College, Assistant Coach, Women’s Soccer

Jeani Humpe, Bethany College, Head Coach, M&W Swimming & Diving

Jillian Humphrey, Saint Mary’s College, Head Coach, STUNT

Alyssa Johnson, Case Western Reserve University, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer

Joan Johnson, Head Coach, Field Hockey

Clarissa Johnson, Transylvania University, Head Coach, Cheer

Keanna Keys, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Mackenzie King, SUNY Oneonta, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Tierney Larson, Columbia University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Ashley Lawrence, Virginia State University, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Amari Lawson, Clark Atlanta University, Volunteer Assistant Coach, Softball

Kumari Lewis, University of Pennsylvania, Associate Head Coach, Women’s Rowing

Kae Lord, Amherst College, Assistant Coach, Field Hockey

Margaret Maclean, University of New Haven, Head Coach, Field Hockey

Lindsay Macy, College of St. Benedict, Head Coach, Women’s Ice Hockey

Justice Magraw, University of Washington, Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Tatjana Matthews, South Carolina State University, Head Coach, Softball

Alison McCarthy, Rose-Human Institute of Technology, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Deja Middleton, University of Richmond, Facilities Manager

Lydia Mitchell, Oberlin College, Assistant Coach, Women’s Soccer

Dayna Moneta, Williams College, Assistant Coach, Football

Anna Moore, University of Sioux Falls, Assistant Coach, Swimming & Diving

Avery Murphy, Wilson College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Karen Nell, University of Saint Joseph, Head Coach, Field Hockey

Amber Neumann, Pace University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Madison Nichols, Stevenson University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Ice Hockey

Molly Nuri, Bethany College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Ana Pain, Barry University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Tennis

Jenny Pawlowski, Gannon University, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Barbara Perkins, University of Denver, Head Coach, Triathlon

Jamie Peters, Purdue University-Fort Wayne, Assistant Coach, Women’s Soccer

Jody Pope, Grays Harbor Community College, Assistant Coach, Softball

Breann Puchalski, University of Redlands, Assistant Coach, Women’s Soccer

Veronica Rocco, Amherst College, Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field

Christine Roser-LeFevers, Rollins College, Head Coach, Softball

Cat Rossi, Washington & Lee University, Strength Coach, Weightlifting

Alicia Roth, Jacksonville University, Head Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Taylor Ruden, Ohio State University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Rowing

Mia Ruffalo, York College, Assistant Coach, Softball

Liz Ruiz, Boise State University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Soccer

Amanda Ruller, Central Washington University, Graduate Assistant Coach, Football

Katie Russo, Goucher College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Sacha Santimano, Marshall University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Olivia Scarbrough, Bethany College, Head Coach, Softball

Sierra Slack, Occidental College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Regina Smith, Morgan State University, Head Coach, Acrobatics and Tumbling

Maggie Sohns, Stevens Institute of Technology, Assistant Coach, Field Hockey

Jaylynn Stewart, The University of the South, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Abigail String, Marist College, Assistant Coach, M&W Swimming & Diving

Corrinne Tarver, Fisk University, Head Coach, Gymnastics

Allison Taub, Lehigh University, Assistant Coach, Track & Field

Shannon Taub, Duquesne University, Assistant Coach, Track & Field

Cassandra Taylor, University of Valley Forge, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Mona Walters, Bryn Athyn College, Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Megan Warren, Wilmington College, Head Coach, Softball

Jess West, Oberlin College, Head Coach, Field Hockey

Sarah Weyrauch, University of Minnesota, Assistant Coach, Women’s Rowing

Kourtni Williams, Boston University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Makena Wilson, Florida Southern College, Head Coach, Beach Volleyball

Marlee Wilson, Western Michigan University, Head Coach, Softball

Katherine Yarusso, Widener University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

June 16-18 NCAA Academy 2.0 Class #7 Participants:

Amanda Beckwith, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Head Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Jennifer Buffin, Colorado College, Head Coach, M&W Swimming & Diving

LaTanya Collins, Iona University, Associate Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Jazmine Craig, Bryant University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Sarah Dessner, Georgian Court University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Kacie Ehinger, Nova Southeastern University, Head Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Sara Emerich, Manchester University, Head Coach, Softball

Kaylee Harnen, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Assistant Coach, Women’s Ice Hockey

Perrmella Harris, Morgan State University, Associate Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling

Amy Hogue, University of Utah, Head Coach, Softball

Erin Hughes, Washington & Lee University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Basketball

Kate McCauley, Saint Vincent College, Head Coach, Men’s Volleyball

Donye’ Monroe, Manchester University, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer

Kelsey Morrison, SUNY Potsdam, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer

Jessica Mulhern, Adelphi University, Head Coach, Field Hockey

Jennifer Myhre, Anderson University, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer

Ellen Newton, D’Youville University, Assistant Coach, Women’s Lacrosse

Ashley Potvin-Fulford, University of New England, Head Coach, Women’s Rugby

Lauren Prochazka, South Dakota Mines, Head Coach, Women’s Volleyball

Carrie Racsumberger, Daemen University, Head Coach, Bowling

Melissa Schwab, Elmhurst University, Assistant Coach, Men’s Basketball

Jennifer Stadler, Chadron State College, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball

Olivia Staff, Monmouth University, Associate Head Coach, Women’s Rowing

Tiana Webster, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field

To learn more about our Academy programs or if you are interested in funding an Academy Scholarship, click below:

NCAA Women Coaches Academy

NCAA Academy 2.0

Academy Scholarships

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About the NCAA

The NCAA is a diverse association of more than 1,100 member colleges and universities that prioritize academics, well-being and fairness to create greater opportunities for more than half a million student-athletes each year. The NCAA provides a pathway to higher education and beyond for student-athletes pursuing academic goals and competing in NCAA sports. More than 54,000 student-athletes experience the pinnacle of intercollegiate athletics by competing in NCAA championships each year. Visit www.ncaa.org and www.ncaa.com for more details about the Association and the corporate partnerships that support the NCAA and its student-athletes.

About WeCOACH

Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

March 28, 2024 – WeCOACH and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Missouri Valley are pleased to announce a new section-wide partnership. The partnership will impact current and new women coaches who are members of the USTA Missouri Valley by providing year-round professional growth and leadership development through WeCOACH memberships.

“This dynamic organization will enhance our ability to empower our coaches with additional tools, expertise, and expanded networks, allowing them to grow professionally,” said Mary Buschmann, USTA Missouri Valley CEO and executive director. “We know that adding this partnership will enhance our efforts to expand our pool of female coaches, who are crucial in our efforts to grow tennis and allow them to become the future leaders in our sport.”

The USTA Missouri Valley membership allows coaches to engage in numerous premier programs offered by WeCOACH and provides the opportunity for coaches to build their personal networks as well. Programs include, but are not limited to, the Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy, Regional Workshops, Mentor Program, Video Chats, WeAMPLIFY (women of color initiative), and the About Time podcast. In addition, access to several new programs that were launched in 2023 will be available. This includes WeCONNECT Women Coaches, which is a peer-to-peer learning opportunity led by coaches, and WeELEVATE, a program that focuses on assistant and associate-head coaches who aspire to become head coaches.

“We are excited to welcome the USTA Missouri Valley women coaches to our WeCOACH community. This membership will further enhance opportunities for coaches to grow their coaching skills and advance in their careers through the wide array of leadership programs WeCOACH offers. This collaboration speaks volumes about the USTA Missouri Valley’s commitment to growing the number of women coaches in tennis. We cannot wait to see the positive impact and opportunities that lie ahead,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO.

To learn more about WeCOACH programs and member benefits, visit wecoachsports.org/membership/why-join.

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ABOUT USTA MISSOURI VALLEY
As one of 17 USTA sections in the United States, the USTA Missouri Valley serves over 23,000 members across the states of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma through its mission to grow tennis and inspire healthier people and communities everywhere. Tennis participation has seen growth for four consecutive years. According to the latest Physical Activity Council’s participation report, more than 23.8 million people hit the tennis courts in 2023. Tennis has been shown to have a significant positive impact on the health of participants. Tennis players on average lived an additional 9.7 years than sedentary individuals. For more information visit usta.com/ustamissourivalley

ABOUT WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

NEW YORK, April 17th, 2024 – On April 17th, WeCOACH and VOICEINSPORT (VIS) have announced a new community partnership aimed at keeping girls in sport and developing more women coaches in the sports industry. VIS, a woman-founded digital platform providing mentorship, content & mental health services, and WeCOACH, a non profit organization dedicated to recruiting, advancing and retaining women coaches, are committed to driving change across the industry for girls and women in sports.

“To keep girls in sport, we need to rethink the ecosystem and that includes dramatically increasing the number of women coaches,” said Founder and CEO of VOICEINSPORT, Stef Strack. “It is imperative that we increase the educational content that young women athletes have access to during their journey and there is no better way to do that than through a community of dedicated women coaches. I’m proud to announce a new community partner with WeCOACH that will help arm so many coaches and young women athletes with resources and services that will help keep girls in sport.”

In this partnership the VOICEINSPORT platform will unlock mentoring services and free educational content to over 15,000 girls in sport through the 2,000+ coaches of girls teams in the WeCOACH community.

The services will include access to free mentoring thanks to the VOICEINSPORT x WNBA Changemaker partnership announced in February 7th, where 16 WNBA players currently serving as VIS Mentors will continue mentoring on the VIS platform, including Ariel Atkins (Washington Mystics), Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever), Alysha Clark (Las Vegas Aces), Natasha Cloud (Phoenix Mercury), Izzy Harrison (Chicago Sky), Lexie Hull (Indiana Fever), Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (New York Liberty), Haley Jones (Atlanta Dream), Nneka Ogwumike (Seattle Storm), Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings), Katie Lou Samuelson (Indiana Fever), Erica Wheeler (Indiana Fever), Zia Cooke (LA Sparks), Kayla McBride (Minnesota Lynx), Brionna Jones (Connecticut Sun) and Brianna Turner (Chicago Sky).

Launching this month, the VOICEINSPORT platform will provide access to services to thousands of girls in sport through the support of the coaches in the WeCOACH network. Since its launch in 2019, the VIS mission of bringing more visibility to women athletes and elevating their voices has been central to building out the platform’s services with over 300+ professional athlete VIS Mentors and 95+ VIS Experts in Sport Psychology, Nutrition and Women’s Health.

WeCOACH is the first of a select group of community partners that will be announced over the next few months that will benefit from the VOICEINSPORT partnership with the WNBA. WeCOACH member coaches will sign up their teams at VOICEINSPORT and unlock professional athlete mentoring and educational content for their young girls and women athletes. Throughout the year, the VIS platform and the 16 WNBA player VIS Mentors will conduct over 144 Live VIS Virtual Mentoring Sessions for athletes in the WeCOACH community sponsored by the WNBA Changemakers.

“We are honored to join forces with VOICEINSPORT, aligning our missions to empower and elevate girls and women in sports. Together, we’re not just breaking barriers; we’re building bridges of opportunity and equality. By merging the impactful mentoring initiatives of VIS along with WeCOACH’s dedication to advancing women coaches, we’re forging a path towards a future where every girl has the support, mentorship, and opportunities she deserves to thrive both on and off the field. Together, we will MOVE the NUMBERS,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO.”

WeCOACH established its mission in 2011 to recruit, advance, and retain women coaches in all sports and levels. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color (all divisions). At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women.

WeCOACH is focused on Moving the Numbers and a partnership with VOICEINSPORT, the largest global community of professional athlete mentors, will help to create an even bigger pipeline of talent into the sports ecosystem. In 2024, this community partnership between WeCOACH and VOICEINSPORT will start by tackling one key part of their collective mission, to keep girls in the game.

For more information on the resources that coaches can unlock for their teams click here. For more information on the VOICEINSPORT x WNBA Changemaker Partnership click here.

Reach out to team@voiceinsport.com for more information about getting your team onboarded.

About VOICEINSPORT
VOICEINSPORT, the global sports company, provides a community-based platform for digital services in mental health, nutrition, sport science and mentoring from pro athletes to keep girls and women in sport. The VOICEINSPORT membership comes with free access to original articles written by women athletes, weekly podcasts, advocacy tools to drive change and a community forum. Paid services include a mentoring platform designed to increase the visibility to pro & collegiate athlete role models and access to both clinical & non-clinical sessions with the top 80 experts in sport psychology, sport nutrition and women’s health. Founded in 2019, VOICEINSPORT is based in NYC and is self-funded by sports industry Executive and Advocate Stef Strack. Visit www.voiceinsport.com for the latest company news and follow @voiceinsport on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

About WeCoach
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

March 5, 2024 – WeCOACH is excited to announce a section-wide partnership with the United

States Tennis Association (USTA) Southern Section. The partnership will impact current and new women coaches by providing complimentary membership to women tennis coaches who live in USTA Southern, which includes the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. With over 167,000 members, the USTA Southern represents more than 26 percent of the USTA membership.

“I am very excited about partnering with the WeCOACH organization. USTA Southern knows that the need for female coaches is an important aspect of the organization and the growth of our sport. Teaming up with WeCOACH and providing professional development and networking opportunities between our two organizations is essential to fulfilling our USTA Southern goals. Having young female athletes look up to female professionals is priceless. We can do some things alone, but together with WeCOACH, we can do so much more,” said Maria Cercone, USTA Southern Director, Junior Competition & Player Development.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with WeCOACH. Together, we’re serving a winning strategy to elevate professional development for all female coaches in our Southern Section. Our goal is clear: Empower coaches with the tools to broaden networks, deepen expertise, and emerge as exceptional leaders in tennis. Female coaches are crucial for the growth and health of our sport and are key in helping the next generation of tennis players. This marks a historic moment as USTA Southern becomes the first USTA section to align with such a premier coaches’ organization,” said Matt Olson, USTA Southern Executive Director & COO.

USTA Southern members will now have access to various premier programs that will help them grow professionally. These programs include the Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy, Regional Workshops, Mentor Program, Video Chats, WeAMPLIFY (women of color initiative), and the About Time podcast. In addition, this partnership also offers access to two new programs, WeCONNECT Women Coaches, which is a peer-to-peer learning opportunity led by coaches, and WeELEVATE, a program that focuses on assistant and associate-head coaches who aspire to become head coaches.

“USTA Southern has pioneered an initiative to help promote the growth and development of the women coaches in their Section. We are impressed with their vision, intentionality, and efforts to effectively identify and recruit more women coaches to ensure diversity within their tennis community. We are proud to be a resource and excited to welcome the USTA Southern coaches into our community,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO.

To learn more about WeCOACH programs and member benefits, visit wecoachsports.org/membership/why-join.

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ABOUT USTA SOUTHERN
The USTA is the national governing body for the sport of tennis in the U.S. and the leader in promoting and developing the growth of tennis at every level – from local communities to the highest level of the professional game. It owns and operates the U.S. Open, the largest annually attended sporting event in the world, and launched the U.S. Open Series linking six summer tournaments to the U.S. Open. In addition, it owns about 90 Pro Circuit events throughout the U.S., and selects the teams for the Davis Cup, Fed Cup, Olympic and Paralympic games. A not- for-profit organization with more than 515,000+ members, it invests 100 percent of its proceeds in growing the game. It is divided into 17 sections, of which USTA Southern is the largest. The 168,000+ USTA members living in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee make up USTA Southern, and account for 26.8 percent of the total USTA membership. A professional staff housed in Peachtree Corners, Ga., carries out USTA Southern’s daily operations, but policy is formed and much of the organization’s work is executed via a board and committee structure of more than 200 volunteers. For more information about the types of programs and services offered by USTA Southern, visit USTA.com/Southern.

ABOUT WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

February 9, 2024 – Now in its fifth year, WeCOACH is thrilled to announce the United States Marine Corps (USMC) as a Mission Partner. This partnership expansion will create multiple opportunities for WeCOACH members to build relationships with and engage in leadership programming offered by the Marines, including, but not limited, to the annual USMC Educators and Coaches Workshops. Applications are currently open for the 2024 USMC Coaches Workshops.

This collaborative partnership includes Marine presence and support across all WeCOACH programs and events. Marines representatives will conduct sessions on the topic of leadership during each of the 2024 WeCOACH Academy programs: the June 2024 WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academy and Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy.

“The United States Marine Corps looks forward to working with the coaches and community of WeCOACH,” said Lt. Col. Rob Dolan. “Our partnership with WeCOACH creates and forges advocacy among a diverse group of female coaches who cultivate a fighting spirit among their athletes.”

The Marines have a mission that aligns with the work WeCOACH members do every day. The United States Marine Corps Influencer Program offers coaches, teams, and athletics administrators local community-engagement opportunities such as Marine-led leadership presentations, team workouts, team talks, and community service projects. The annual Marine Corps Educators & Coaches Workshops offer coaches the opportunity to learn more about aspirational service to the nation while networking with other coaches looking to improve their teams and student outcomes.

“Every year our partnership with the Marine Corps continues to elevate and expand to have greater impact. Our members establish relationships with USMC representatives during our programs and then invite them to work with their teams on campus to provide leadership training and team building workouts. The Marines offer incredible resources to our Community, and we are proud to have the Marines partner to cultivate leadership skills within our coaches,” said WeCOACH CEO Vanessa Fuchs.

Coaches and Marines both share a passion for transforming young people into high-caliber citizens of our great Nation. Through this partnership, WeCOACH is able to spread public awareness of the Marine Corps’ purpose and core values.

• To apply for the 2024 USMC Coaches Workshops, click here.
• To become a Marine Influencer and invite Marine representatives to your campus to work with your team, click here.
• To learn more about our partnership with the USMC, click here click here.

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ABOUT THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

“You don’t join the Marines. You become one.”

Ours is a noble path and demanding journey reserved for those with the willingness to engage and determination to defeat all mental, moral, and physical requirements to become Marines. In or out of uniform, it’s the fighting spirit found inside every Marine that drives them to victory.

Even as our recruiting force faces the most challenging recruiting environment since the establishment of the all-volunteer force, we continue to demand this fighting spirit from all who wish to earn the title “Marine.”

The United States Marine Corps recognizes the role of coaches, educators, mentors, and parents who inspire that fighting spirit, and we need your help in finding the future leaders of our force.

Whether your interest lies in helping us identify high-achieving students and athletes or inviting us to help you motivate students and steer them toward success, we would like to get to know you.

To learn more about the United States Marine Corps, click here.

ABOUT WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

February 7, 2024 – On National Girls & Women in Sports Day, WeCOACH is proud to announce five recipients of the 2023-24 Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Jostens. The prestigious WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to women in sports who succeed at the highest levels in their respective careers, while also displaying an unwavering commitment, pioneering spirit, and trailblazing leadership to empower and pave the way for girls and women in all sports and levels to breakthrough for many generations to come.

This year’s recipients include Coach Missy Foote (retired), Middlebury College Head Women’s Lacrosse & Field Hockey Coach; Dr. Christine Grant (posthumous), University of Iowa Director of Women’s Intercollegiate Athletics & former Field Hockey Coach; Coach Beverly “Bev” Kearney, former University of Texas Women’s Track & Field Head Coach and Founder of InPursuit of Dreams Inc.; Coach C. Vivian Stringer (retired), Rutgers University Head Women’s Basketball Coach; and Sister Lynn Winsor, Xavier College Preparatory Vice-Principal of Activities, Athletic Director, and Co-Head Girls Golf Coach.

“WeCOACH is privileged to have these women as special members of our community. We are honored to celebrate their inspirational achievements and the profound influence they have had on the athletes they coached. Each of these remarkable women have demonstrated a pioneering spirit throughout their careers, paving the way for future generations of coaches and athletes. Through their groundbreaking efforts, they have not only achieved unprecedented success, they have also opened doors and created opportunities for others to follow in their footsteps. They have advocated for gender equity, diversity, and inclusion, striving to create a more equitable and inclusive playing field for all. WeCOACH could not be more thrilled to bestow upon them our highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award,” said WeCOACH CEO Vanessa Fuchs.

Past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients include Jill Ellis, Muffet McGraw, Violet Palmer, Nikki Franke, Carol Hutchins, and Jodi Manore. The 2023-24 honorees will receive their custom designed awards by Jostens on June 17 in Denver, Colorado in conjunction with the WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academies.

About Coach Missy Foote

Missy Foote’s remarkable legacy at Middlebury College as both a coach and administrator were pivotal in shaping the institution’s athletic landscape for nearly four decades. Over 34 years, she steered the Panthers women’s lacrosse program to unparalleled heights, with an impressive streak of 14 consecutive NCAA final four appearances and five national titles. Her 422 career wins (422-114-1) ranked third in Division III history and placed her top four in all NCAA divisions at the time she retired in 2015. For lacrosse, Foote was a five-time National Coach of the Year, eight-time Regional Coach of the Year, and six-time NESCAC Coach of the Year. In field hockey, Foote’s 21-year tenure saw significant success with an overall record of 180-95-12, highlighted by an NCAA Championship in 1998. She earned numerous accolades, including Division III Regional and National Coach-of-the-Year honors twice (1994 and 1998) and two ECAC titles. Foote also coached basketball and swimming in addition to serving as Middlebury’s Senior Woman Administrator and Director of Physical Education, further solidifying her status as a multifaceted leader within the athletic department. Foote’s legacy is enshrined in Halls of Fame at the national, regional, and state levels, a testament to her enduring impact on the sport and her lasting influence on the Middlebury athletic tradition. Her decades of service exemplify a rare blend of coaching excellence, administrative leadership, and dedication to student-athlete development, leaving an indelible mark on Middlebury College and the broader athletic community. Read more about Coach Foote here.

About Dr. Christine Grant

Dr. Christine Grant was a nationally renowned athletics leader, trailblazing pioneer, and strong voice in the fight for gender equity in athletics. Grant, a native of Scotland played and coached field hockey in both her native country and Canada before coming to the University of Iowa to continue her education. In 1973, she made history by becoming Iowa’s first director of women’s intercollegiate athletics. As AD, her 12 Hawkeye programs won 27 Big Ten Championships, and in 1985, Dr. Grant hired fellow lifetime achievement recipient, C. Vivian Stringer, the first black women’s basketball coach in Big Ten Conference history. A founding member of the Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW), Dr. Grant played a significant role in the full implementation of Title IX as a consultant for the Civil Rights Title IX Task Force. Dr. Grant’s distinguished career earned her many accolades and honors including the NCAA’s 2007 Gerald R. Ford Award, the prestigious Billie Jean King Award presented by the Women’s Sports Foundation (1995), three honorary doctorates, and induction into the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame (2006). This year, Dr. Grant will also be inducted into the Field Hockey Canada Hall of Fame and USA Field Hockey Hall of Fame. She retired from Iowa on August 31, 2000. From the beginning of the WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academies in 2003, Dr. Grant served as a faculty member presenting on Title IX and an Academy Scholarship has been established in her memory by WeCOACH co-founder, Judith M. Sweet. Sadly, we lost Dr. Christine Grant on December 31, 2021. Read more about Dr. Grant here.

About Coach Beverly “Bev” Kearney

Coach Bev Kearney’s remarkable achievements and accolades set her apart as one of the most successful and decorated coaches in collegiate athletics. Over her 30-year career, Coach Bev’s teams captured seven NCAA National Championships. Six championships were won while leading the University of Texas Women’s Track & Field program (Indoor: 1998, 1999, 2005; Outdoor: 1998, 1999, 2006), and her first was secured as head coach at the University of Florida (Indoor–1992). While at Texas, Kearney’s teams finished in the top three at NCAA’s 14 times and an impressive total of 36 NCAA top-10 finishes. Additionally, Kearney clinched 22 conference titles across the Big 12 Conference, Southwest Conference, and the SEC. Kearney’s individual achievements as a coach are equally extraordinary, including 39 Coach of the Year awards. In 2008, Coach Bev received the Lifetime Achievement Award from her alma mater, Auburn University. She is only the second woman in history and the first ever African American to receive this esteemed award. Today, Coach Bev’s coaching can be seen through her nonprofit, InPursuit of Dreams, dedicated to helping individuals reconnect with their life’s purpose, passions, and dreams. Her methods are drawn from her coaching experience as well as her remarkable recovery from a near-tragic automobile accident that left Coach Bev paralyzed in 2002. Read more about Coach Bev here.

About Coach C. Vivian Stringer

Coach C. Vivian Stringer has been a pioneer, visionary, and leader during her four decades on the hardwood and her extraordinary achievements in women’s college basketball solidify her as one of the most influential and successful coaches in NCAA history. Stringer holds the distinction of being the first coach in NCAA history to lead three different women’s programs to the NCAA Final Four. She achieved this milestone with Rutgers in 2000 and 2007, the University of Iowa in 1993, and Cheyney State College (now Cheyney University of Pennsylvania) in 1982. Her Cheyney State Lady Wolves team remains the only HBCU program, women’s or men’s, to appear in an NCAA Division I Final Four or National Championship game. She surpassed the monumental 1,000 career victory mark in November 2018, the fifth NCAA Division I women’s basketball coach and the first African American coach to reach the milestone. She retired ranked fifth all-time in NCAA women’s basketball history with 1,055 career victories and became the NCAA record holder with 37 seasons of 20 or more victories. Stringer’s contributions to the sport have been widely recognized and honored throughout her career. She was honored as the Naismith National Coach of the Year for women’s basketball in 1993 and in 2020 received the John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award. Additionally, Coach Stringer has been inducted into numerous Halls of Fame including the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2001) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame (2009), further solidifying her legacy as a coaching legend. Read more about Coach C. Vivian Stringer here.

About Sister Lynn Winsor

Sister Lynn Winsor’s exemplary leadership, dedication to excellence, and unwavering commitment to advocating for equal rights in high school athletics has earned her widespread admiration across the high school sports community and beyond. Leading as the Head Girls Golf Coach at Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix, AZ since 1974, she has established a storied program, leading her team to a national record 37 golf state championship titles and an astonishing 28 titles in 30 years. Sister Lynn has also made significant contributions as the Athletic Director at Xavier College Preparatory, overseeing a remarkable 149 State Championships across various sports. Beyond coaching, Sister Lynn’s role as Vice Principal for Activities at Xavier College Preparatory since 1977 underscores her commitment to providing a quality education and empowering young women in a Catholic high school setting. Sister Lynn’s advocacy to ban sex-based discrimination in school athletics further highlights her trailblazing commitment to equity, inclusion and fairness across all playing fields, ensuring that all students, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities. Her tireless efforts over the past four decades have garnered an impressive list of well-earned honors that include numerous Athletic Director and Coach of the Year honors as well as the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) highest honor, the NIAAA Award of Merit (2006); NFHS National High School Hall of Fame (2023); NFHS/ AIA Title IX Woman Trailblazer of the Year (2021); and the 2022 Most Influential Woman in Arizona Sport. Read more about Sister Lynn Winsor here.

ABOUT JOSTENS

Jostens is a trusted partner in the academic and achievement channel, providing products, programs and services that help its customers celebrate moments that matter. The company’s products include yearbooks, publications, jewelry and consumer goods that serve the K-12 educational, college and professional sports segments. Founded in 1897 and based in Minneapolis, Minn., Jostens is owned by Platinum Equity and can be found online at jostens.com.

ABOUT WeCOACH

Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

ABOUT THE WeCOACH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The prestigious WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to women in sports who succeed at the highest levels in their respective careers, while also displaying an unwavering commitment, pioneering spirit, and trailblazing leadership to empower and pave the way for girls and women in all sports and levels to breakthrough for many generations to come. Jostens, as our official WeCELEBRATE Moments Partner, provides each honoree with a custom designed award to commemorate their lifetime achievements. Prior WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients include: Jill Ellis (2019), Muffet McGraw (2020), Violet Palmer (2021), Nikki Franke (2022), Carol Hutchins (2022), and Jodi Manore (2022).

January 19, 2024 – WeCOACH is excited to announce Hudl, the global leader in performance analysis technology, as the organization’s first Mission Partner. Through this partnership, Hudl’s generous investment in the WeCOACH mission will have a year-round presence and impact on our growing community of women coaches, and elevate our efforts to recruit, advance, and retain women in coaching.

“At Hudl, we’re committed to leveling the playing field in sports, not just for athletes and teams, but for the coaches leading them. Our shared mission with WeCOACH has helped create incredible moments together for the coaching community, including the BreakThrough Summit and the About Time podcast. As we celebrate five years of making a meaningful impact together on thousands of people, we’re excited to deepen this collaboration as a Mission Partner and continue to shape the future of women leaders in sports,” shared Hudl’s Chief People and Legal Officer Jasmine Kingsley.

A longtime provider of scholarships to both the WeCOACH Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy, as well as the WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academy, the additional programs impacted through support from Hudl include the Divisions II & III Development Program and the new WeELEVATE Assistant Coaches Workshops. In addition, Hudl and WeCOACH launched in September the new About Time podcast to empower women and girls through the personal journeys of successful women in sports. This podcast explores key topics in women’s sports and inspires the next generation to find their own path.

“Hudl continues to step up and lead the way to empower women in sport through their significant commitment to and investment in equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are proud to align with a

partner that has infused such an impressive culture within the Hudl brand and across all of the talented team members who lead their company. Hudl is a cherished partner in our WeCOACH Community, and we are thrilled to expand our collaborations to impact even greater change,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH.

To learn more about Hudl and all WeCOACH partners, visit wecoachsports.org/get- involved/wecoach-partners. To learn more about WeCOACH programs and member benefits, visit wecoachsports.org/membership/why-join.

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ABOUT HUDL
Hudl empowers more than 220,000 teams globally to reach their potential. A complete suite of video and data products ensures coaches and teams at every level of sport have the information and insights they need to be their best. Our smart cameras capture every second of the action, and our software makes video easy to access, analyze, share and learn from. That video also enables athletes to get recruited and teams at every level to find their next star. And fans and communities who want to be part of the action can connect to livestreaming, athlete highlights and team profiles. That’s why more than 8M users across 40+ sports trust Hudl for every moment that matters to them. Learn more at Hudl.com.

ABOUT WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

January 16, 2023 – WeCOACH is excited to announce an expanded partnership with Jostens, the leading provider of championship jewelry and awards. The renewed partnership will feature Jostens as the official WeCELEBRATE Moments partner of WeCOACH, producing awards for our annual WeCOACH awards program that includes Lifetime Achievement Awards, Coach of the Month, as well as recognition awarded during each Academy program.

“Jostens has been a special part of creating celebration moments for our WeCOACH Community since 2019 and we are excited to expand their impact to all aspects of our annual recognition and awards initiatives. We are grateful for Jostens’ leadership who are passionately committed to helping advance our mission.” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH.

Jostens will also be a part of the WeCOACH Member Benefits Program, offering members complimentary and/or discounted products and services to celebrate championship moments as an exclusive WeCOACH member benefit. As the premier storyteller of champions, Jostens is trusted by more schools, colleges and professional sports teams than any other manufacturer.

“Jostens is extremely proud to partner with WeCOACH and grateful for the impact they are making for women coaches everywhere,” said Chris Poitras, General Manager and Senior Vice President of Jostens Professional & College Sports Division. “Not only are we thrilled to help celebrate and recognize WeCOACH members throughout the year, we are also excited to be able to offer benefits to WeCOACH members at one of the pinnacle celebratory moments of their coaching careers – winning a championship.”

WeTEACH. WeINSPIRE. WeMOTIVATE. WeLEAD. WeCOACH!

Recipients of the 2023 WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Awards presented by Jostens will be announced in the first quarter of 2024. Past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients include Jill Ellis, Muffet McGraw, Violet Palmer, Nikki Franke, Carol Hutchins, and Jodi Manore.

ABOUT JOSTENS
Jostens is a trusted partner in the academic and achievement channel, providing products, programs and services that help its customers celebrate moments that matter. The company’s products include yearbooks, publications, jewelry and consumer goods that serve the K-12 educational, college and professional sports segments. Founded in 1897 and based in Minneapolis, Minn., Jostens is owned by Platinum Equity and can be found online at jostens.com.

ABOUT WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

January 8, 2024 – The WeCOACH Board of Directors announced the addition of three new board members: Dr. Lisa Langston, Penny Lucas-White, and Anthony Thomas, each of whom begin their three- year terms this month.

Tiffany D. Tucker, Deputy Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator at UNC-Wilmington assumed the role of Board President, effective January 1. Ann Walker, a longtime former coach and administrator, began her term as president-elect, and Teresa Gould, Pac-12 Conference Deputy Commissioner, transitions to past president. These leadership positions are one-year progressive terms.

“I am extremely honored for the opportunity to serve as President of the WeCOACH Board of Directors in 2024 and to impact the members of this exceptional organization that is focused on elevating women coaches. We need more women leaders coaching boys, girls, men, and women at every level of sport, and I’m excited to work with our talented Board members and Team WeCOACH to continue the impressive upward trajectory this year.”

“Following a monumental year for our organization, the addition of these longtime professionals will help us continue to achieve unprecedented goals. Their experience and expertise across several different sports and levels, coupled with Tiffany’s respected leadership, is key to advancing the WeCOACH mission to recruit, advance and retain women coaches. I am very excited for our staff and membership to have the opportunity to work closely with and learn from these passionate board members,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO.

Get to know your new Board members:

Dr. Lisa L. Langston (CMAA) is the Director of Athletics for the Fort Worth Independent School District, the fourth largest school district in the state of Texas. She’s a member of the Texas A&M Athletic Hall of Fame and still ranks amongst their all-time women’s basketball leaders in both scoring and steals. In April 2024, Dr. Langston will be inducted to the Dallas Independent School District Athletic Hall of Fame. In December 2020, she was elected President of the NIAAA (National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association), the first Black female to ever hold that position. She continues to serve the NIAAA as a member of their national faculty.

Lisa has served as faculty for multiple WeCOACH programs including the Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy.

Penny Lucas-White is the Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at Alabama State University. 2023 marked her 13^th season at the helm where she reached the 1,000 matches coached milestone. A seasoned veteran with 31 years coaching experience, Penny also coached at Memphis and Air Force Academy. She has received four conference Coach of the Year honors and is an eight-time conference champion. An accomplished student-athlete in her own right, Lucas-White was a former U.S. National Team player who also played domestically in the United States Volleyball League and internationally in Italy and Germany. Penny is a 2005 WCA Class #5 graduate who has remained highly engaged with WeCOACH over the years, including as a speaker for multiple programs and events. Penny is currently a member of the USAV Board of Directors.

Anthony E. Thomas (CAA) is the Director of Athletics and Physical Education at San Francisco University High School. Anthony is also the Co- Founder and President of the National Minority Athletic Directors Association (NOMAD), a professional organization that provides resources, such as mentoring, the sharing of ideas, networking, and leadership development to increase membership, participation, and opportunities for minority and underrepresented athletic directors. He has also led at Francis Parker School, Convent & Stuart Hall, The Branson School, International School, and Sacred Heart Preparatory School.

Anthony has served as faculty for multiple WeCOACH programs including the Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy.

For a complete list of WeCOACH Board of Directors, please click here.

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About WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is a one-of-a-kind 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches in all sports and levels through year-round professional growth & leadership development programs. Prior to Title IX, over 90% of women’s collegiate sports teams were coached by women. Today, over 50 years later, the data indicates that number has decreased to 46% in Division I, 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 6.2% women head coaches of color (Division I). Only 5% women coach men’s teams. At the youth level, the data is hard to estimate, approximately less than 20% of teams are coached by women. WeCOACH launched MOVE the NUMBERS in 2022 to help change the landscape for women coaches and the student-athletes they lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.