News Releases - 2018

WeCOACH hosted the 2nd class of Academy 2.0 and the 46th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) last week at the Hilton Denver Inverness in Englewood, Colorado. Forty-five female coaches of all experience levels and sports from NCAA Division I, II and III were selected to participate in the NCAA Women Coaches Academy, while fourteen were selected to partake in the master-learning Academy 2.0 program.

Academy 2.0 was developed last year as a continuation of the skills and strategies learned during the WCA and is available to those coaches who have participated in the WCA a minimum of eighteen-months earlier.

One coach from each class is honored based on peer selection. Samantha Eustace, head women’s lacrosse coach at Mercer University, was selected by her NCAA Women Coaches Academy peers as the WeCOACH Impact Award honoree. In Academy 2.0, the Cecile Reynaud Coaching Mastery Award honoree was Jamila Johnson, head women’s golf coach at University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

NCAA Women Coaches Academy class #46 participants
Josie Barnes, Vanderbilt University, Associate Head Coach, Bowling
Betsy Bayliss, Seattle University, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Egan Berne, Colgate University, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Anna Braun, Agnes Scott College, Head Coach, Volleyball
Ali Brems, Truman State University, Assistant Coach, Softball
Amy Burgess, University of Arkansas Little Rock, Head Coach, Swimming & Diving
Maddy Carpenter, College of the Holy Cross, Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Francesca Carrullo, University of Dayton, Assistant Coach, Softball
Kelliner Croushore, Occidental College, Assistant Coach, Softball
Natalie Deacon, University of Lynchburg, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Nichole DePaul-Miller, Upper Iowa University, Head Coach, Bowling
Jessie DeZiel, University of Illinois, Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Erin Dinan, Ithaca College, Head Coach, Cross Country
Brittany Duncan, Northern Kentucky University, Assistant Coach, Softball
Samantha Eustace, Mercer University, Head Coach, Lacrosse
Kelyn Freedman, George Washington University, Assistant Coach, Lacrosse
Kristen Gillis, Moravian College, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Kayla Grover, Salem State University, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Kali Harmon, Southern Utah University, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Chelsea Hennan, Sonoma State University, Head Coach, Water Polo
Chrissy Holm, University of Minnesota, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Lizzy Johnson, University of Pennsylvania, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Jocelyn Keller , Carleton College, Head Coach, Soccer
Alexandra Kiss, Fresno State University, Assistant Coach, Water Polo
Katie Lane, University of Pennsylvania, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Kathy Les, University of Connecticut, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Heidi Lewis, Catholic University of America, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Dana Lyon, United States Air Force Academy, Assistant Coach, Track & Field
Paige Madara, Grinnell College, Head Coach, Tennis
Elizabeth Morrison, Trinity College, Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Lara-Jane Que, Bowdoin College, Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Jessica Richardson, Southern Utah University, Graduate Assistant Coach, Basketball
Allison Rubnitz, Seton Hall University, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Mikinzee Salo , St. Catherine University, Assistant Coach , Tennis
Meredith Spencer-Blaetz, Stevens Institute of Technology, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Olivia Staff, University of Tulsa, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Rachael Sushner, St. Olaf College, Head Coach, Soccer
Jennifer Swieton, Central Michigan University, Head Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Alyssa Waite, San Diego State University, Assistant Coach, Golf
Kristen Washburn, College of William & Mary, Volunteer Assistant Coach, Soccer
Brittany Whatley, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Assistant Coach, Golf
Elizabeth Wilson, Utah State University, Director of Operations, Cross Country, Track & Field
Ilona Wilson, Colorado College, Assistant Coach, Tennis
Hayley Wirth, Grinnell College, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Meredith Witherell, Knox College, Head Coach, Tennis

Academy 2.0 class #2 participants
Brittany Adell, Colgate University, Head Coach, Rowing
Valerie Armstrong, Midwestern State University, Head Coach, Volleyball
Laura Burnett-Kurie, Gustavus Adolphus College, Head Coach, Soccer
Roslynn Ellis, University of Iowa, Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Lynn Farquhar, Saint Joseph’s University, Head Coach, Field Hockey
JoAnne Ferguson, Pomona-Pitzer Colleges, Head Coach, Softball
Jessica Giglio, Fresno State University, Head Coach, Lacrosse
Brittney Harvey, Trine University, Assistant Coach, Softball
Jamila Johnson, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Head Coach, Golf
Rose Lucidi, SUNY Canton, Head Coach, Soccer
Jenny Park, Seattle University, Head Coach, Rowing
JJ Payette, Stetson University, Assistant Coach, Softball
Amanda Reckamp, Minnesota State University Moorhead, Head Coach, Softball
Justine Tydings, University of Wyoming, Director of Operations, Soccer

The application period for the summer 2019 sessions will begin in mid-January. More information on Academy 2.0 and the NCAA Women Coaches Academy can be viewed on the WeCOACH website (wecoachsports.org).

About WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is the premier membership organization committed to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches across all sports and levels. Previously known as the Alliance of Women Coaches, the organization reimagined their brand in August 2018. By providing a supportive and unified network, educational resources, and access to in-person and digital programming opportunities, WeCOACH is changing the landscape for women in coaching.

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WeCOACH has announced the addition of Michele McGee Wolfert to their national office staff. Wolfert will officially begin her position as Director of Strategic Relationships on November 28.

“We feel so fortunate to be adding someone of Michele’s experience and expertise to our team,” said WeCOACH executive director, Megan Kahn. “Her ability to navigate the landscape in fostering relationships and leveraging partnerships will be monumental for our organization, and her passion for the coaching profession is unmatched, making this a perfect fit.”

Wolfert comes to WeCOACH with a wealth of experience in corporate sponsorship, annual giving, and revenue generation. Most recently, Wolfert served as the Director of Partnerships for the Charlotte Hornets’ G League team, the Greensboro Swarm, after serving as Executive Director of the College of Charleston Cougar Club for three years. Previous experience includes stints at the Georgia Tech Athletic Association and Virginia Tech Athletics. Wolfert received her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and a Master’s of Sports Administration from Ohio University.

“As the daughter, sister, niece and mother of those that have coached at the college, high school and middle school levels, I am very excited to join a team whose important mission is recruiting, retaining and advancing coaches at all levels,” said Wolfert.

Michele and her husband, Mike, reside in Winston-Salem, NC and are the proud parents of three children.

About WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is the premier membership organization committed to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches across all sports and levels. Previously known as the Alliance of Women Coaches, the organization reimagined their brand in August 2018. By providing a supportive and unified network, educational resources, and access to in-person and digital programming opportunities, WeCOACH is changing the landscape for women in coaching.

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WeCOACH announced their 2018-19 Coaches Council members, a selected group of individuals who will help ensure WeCOACH is strategically serving women coaches from all sports and all levels.

“Now in it’s fourth year, the Coaches Council is gaining momentum,” said WeCOACH executive director Megan Kahn. “I’m really excited about this group of coaches. They routinely exhibit passion and thoughtfulness for the larger coaching profession and I know they will bring forth great ideas.”

The sixteen members of the Council represent twelve sports across NCAA Division I, II and III levels, high school, club and two-year colleges. As WeCOACH continues to expand its reach and impact, for the first time the Council includes a strength and conditioning coach.

Each Council member serves a two-year term. The terms are staggered to create continuity annually.

2018-19 Coaches Council:
Brianna Barry – Head Coach, Volleyball, Southeastern Oklahoma State (NCAA DII)
Ashley Botham* – Head Coach, Track & Field/XC, Purdue Fort Wayne (NCAA DI)
Tracy Coyne – Head Coach, Women’s Lacrosse, George Washington University (NCAA DI)
Angela Dendas-Pleasant* – Head Strength & Conditioning Coach, Lewis & Clark College (NCAA DIII)
Yolanda Duron, Ed.D. – Head Coach, Women’s Tennis, Fullerton College (2-Year College)
Kathryn Gleason – Head Coach, Softball, Northern Kentucky University (NCAA DI)
Melanie Horn – Athletic Director & Head Coach, Girls Basketball, Westridge School (High School)
Kelsey Hinton* – Assistant Coach, Women’s Gymnastics, William & Mary College (NCAA DI)
Lyndse Hokanson* – Assistant Coach, Women’s Soccer, Georgetown University (NCAA DI)
Janell Howland – Head Coach, Women’s Golf, University of North Carolina at Greensboro (NCAA DI)
Colleen Murphy – Head Coach, Women’s Swimming, U.S. Air Force Academy (NCAA DI)
Sonia Raman – Head Coach, Women’s Basketball, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (NCAA DIII)
Trish Riddell* – Head Coach, Women’s Tennis, Florida Southern College (NCAA DII)
Marci Robles* – Head Coach, Women’s Rowing, George Washington University (NCAA DI)
Kincaid Schmidt – Technical Director, Zone 1, Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club (Youth Club)
Tara Zollinger – Head Coach, Field Hockey, Shippensburg University (NCAA DII)
*new term beginning in 2018-19

Full biographies of the Council are available here.

About WeCOACH
Founded in 2011, WeCOACH is the premier membership organization committed to recruiting, advancing, and retaining women coaches across all sports and levels. Previously known as the Alliance of Women Coaches, the organization reimagined their brand in August 2018. By providing a supportive and unified network, educational resources, and access to in-person and digital programming opportunities, WeCOACH is changing the landscape for women in coaching.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches has officially changed its name and marks to WeCOACH.

Since 2011, when the Alliance was founded, it has experienced unprecedented growth, becoming the premier membership organization committed to recruiting, advancing and retaining women in the coaching profession. With growth and transformation under new leadership and infusion of passionate board members, the organization was primed for a pivotal step forward.

“We couldn’t be more excited to share WeCOACH with the world,” said Executive Director Megan Kahn. “The new name, colors, and logo not only set us apart visually, but better represent the heartbeat of our membership – our coaches of all sports and all levels. While our mission remains the same, this evolution will take us to new heights in enabling us to broaden our reach and impact.”

After the Whistle, a full-service integrated marketing firm based in Chicago, was the chosen agency to develop the new name and logo.

The WeCOACH name represents a strong, engaged and unified community of coaches across sports and levels. The simple, straightforward and powerful design showcases the fortitude of the organization and symbolizes “strong women” as coaches, leaders and role models.

The sharp lines in the logo subliminally form two interlocking triangles creating the first letter – W – of WeCOACH, a nod to women, and establishing a union of strength. The center triangle represents the heartbeat of the organization – its membership – and creates 3 points of interconnection, representing the three pillars of the organization’s work: to recruit, to advance, and to retain women in coaching. The outer circle softens the design, representing an inclusive, safe community for growth and sharing, where voices are stronger when unified.

For more information on WeCOACH and the rebrand, visit their new website or www.wecoachsports.org.

About After the Whistle
After the Whistle (www.afterthewhistle.com) is a full-service integrated marketing firm covering media, branding, creative services and events. Co-founders Jackie Paulus, Shanae’ Paulus, and Jimmy de Castro use their eclectic mix of experience across media, production, events and sports to help people and brands elevate tell their story.

What They’re Saying About WeCOACH…

WeCOACH is the collective voice for women in coaching, and it’s never been more vital. If girls and women are to get the experience of a female head coach; if they’re to get to see a woman of competence and authority as part of their athletic career, we need WeCOACH to stand up to the sexism that limits women in athletics. The double-standards, the different performance evaluations, and the inability to address Title IX violations that affect women athletes are depressingly familiar. Only a collective voice and action can change the profession for women.
– Nancy Hogshead-Makar, Champion Women CEO, civil rights lawyer, Olympic gold-medal swimmer

The rebranding of WeCOACH embodies our vision for inclusion of all women coaches actively growing, sharing, and improving together. Everything about the name, the logo, and the bold colors represent who we are and what we do together.
– Cecile Reynaud, President of WeCOACH Board of Directors, AVCA Hall of Fame, and member of USA Volleyball Board of Directors

As the profession of coaching has evolved, so too has the need for organizations that develop coaches to find ways of making their own forward progress. While WeCOACH has always been the leader in educating and mentoring women in the coaching profession, their rebranding has positioned them to extend their impact and reach beyond gender and classification, and into the global coaching community at large. The future of coaches everywhere is brighter tomorrow because of the work WeCOACH is doing today.
– Jason Belzer, Founder, AthleticDirectorU, Founder and President, Global Athlete Management Enterprises, Inc., Forbes Contributor, Rutgers Professor

Love the new name and excited about the mission!
– Beth Launiere, Hehad Women’s Volleyball Coach, University of Utah

It is so important for female athletes to see and experience female coaches in sport. WeCOACH is an important support network to assist and unify women in coaching. Their new brand has a unifying logo and theme that incorporates all the extraordinary qualities of female coaches in our profession!
– Colleen Murphy, Head Women’s Swimming Coach, Air Force Academy

I love the direction we are taking with the rebrand. Women are coaches and we make a difference in the lives of our athletes across all levels and sports. WeCOACH represents this and so much more that is relevant and modern about women coaches.
– Missy Price, Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Wellesley College

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The Alliance of Women Coaches, in partnership with the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club, launched the Next Wave Coach Academy last week. This pilot program engages the “next wave” of women coaches by creating an environment where women are encouraged to coach and providing a pathway tailored to each individual.

“We’ve gone beyond simply including women in coaching assignments at our club,” said CRYSC Zone 1 Technical Director Kincaid Schmidt. “With the support of leaders in the club, we’ve gone a step further by establishing a system that supports each individual coach in her long-term development. We help each coach maximize her potential by creating a holistic learning environment that encourages young women not just to be coaches, but to be excellent coaches.”

Next Wave Coach Academy offers a solid foundation for these high school players and young professionals entering the coaching profession by providing the U.S. Soccer grassroots licensing course led by a female instructor, season-long mentorship, and a second professional development weekend in November focused on developing leadership and management skills. U.S. Soccer Instructor and founding member of the Women in Youth Sports Coalition Jené Baclawski led the licensing course. Additionally, the twelve participants will receive a one-year, complimentary membership to the Alliance of Women Coaches.

“One of the priorities in our strategic plan is focused on identifying a ‘pipeline’ of future female coaches,” said Alliance Executive Director Megan Kahn. “The Next Wave Coach Academy is our first meaningful initiative in the youth space to provide a pathway for women to enter the profession and hopefully create a future pipeline. We couldn’t be more excited about the potential of this partnership and are so proud of these women.”

Participants of the inaugural Next Wave Coach Academy:

Sophia Bertolone
Regan Brown
Alana Chubb
Emma Dickinson
Jayla Elstad
Liz Lechuga
Rebekah McCabe
Ellison Mucharsky-O’Boyle
Megan Sforzini
Madison Snyder
Eleanor Sommers
Mae Swenson

Visit www.gocoaches.org/programs-events/next-wave/ for more information on the Next Wave program.

About Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club
Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club is a soccer club who strives to provide an opportunity for all levels of players from beginner to advanced, from three to professional. CRYSC is one of the only true full-service soccer clubs in the nation providing soccer for all types of players from all different types of backgrounds. For more information on CRYSC, visit www.rapidsyouthsoccer.org.

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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Graduates of the Alliance of Women Coaches’ inaugural Academy 2.0 have made waves in the sports world in the eight months since the first class gathered in November 2017.

Over the course of three days, these women worked together towards their professional and personal development. The Alliance of Women Coaches designed the mastery learning program for graduates of its NCAA Women Coaches Academy.

“Looking back at what our first Academy 2.0 class has accomplished in the past eight months is nothing short of impressive,” said Alliance of Women Coaches Executive Director Megan Kahn. “As female coaches continue to draw national attention, we applaud the efforts and success of these women. To have so many incredible accomplishments from a class of ten is a testament to their commitment to advancing in the profession, to self-growth and gaining experience, and to building relationships and staying engaged with the Alliance.”

Both Jennifer Klein and Jennifer Patrick-Swift took head coaching positions at Power 5 conference schools. In February 2018, Klein took over as head women’s soccer coach at the University of Michigan after serving four seasons as associate head coach at the University of Southern California, where she helped lead them to the 2016 NCAA Division I national championship. In addition to her work at Michigan, Klein is also an assistant coach with the U.S. Soccer Under-19 Women’s National Team.

Patrick-Swift accepted the head softball coach position at North Carolina State University this summer after earning back-to-back conference titles as the head coach of Saint Francis University and leading the team to consecutive NCAA appearances. Recently, Patrick-Swift and her staff at Saint Francis were named Coaching Staff of the Year for the Great Lakes Region by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA).

University of Central Florida assistant rowing coach Conny Kirsch and University of Nevada Las Vegas women’s golf head coach Amy Bush-Herzer both led their teams to conference championships this year. It was the fourth straight American Athletic Conference championship for UCF and Kirsch while their staff garnered AAC Coaching Staff of the Year. Bush-Herzer led her squad to their fourth championship in eight years and this spring, she was named the Mountain West Coach of the Year for the third time in her career.

Wellesley soccer head coach Missy Price, Ph.D. took on a national leadership role within her sport. Price, a former Chair of the United Soccer Coaches’ Women’s Coaches Member Group, is now serving on the United Soccer Coaches Board of Directors as Vice President.

In April, Stephanie Wheeler was inducted into the National Wheelchair Basketball Association Hall of Fame. Wheeler currently serves as the head wheelchair basketball coach at the University of Illinois. In 2016 at the Paralympic Games in Rio, as head coach, she led the women’s wheelchair basketball team to the gold medal.

“They have set the bar high,” said Kahn. I look forward to growing Academy 2.0 and watching other women follow in their footsteps.”

The application period for Academy 2.0 Class #2 will open September 4, and the program will take place November 28-30, 2018 in Denver, alongside the NCAA Women Coaches Academy. In 2019, the Alliance will expand Academy 2.0 to both a summer and winter session.

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches concluded its first-ever Mentor Program. The pilot program included a selection of 48 individuals to participate in a year-long mentor program throughout the 2017-18 academic year. The experience included an application process, ten sets of monthly discussion prompts, ten virtual check-ins, three skills assessments, and three participant video chats.

“I am very pleased and encouraged with our inaugural mentor program,” said Alliance Executive Director Megan Kahn. “The intentional effort we put into developing this unique hybrid model of ‘mentoring trios’ and the monthly touchpoints provide a catalyst for helping keep women in the profession. Data tells us women are leaving coaching after 7 – 10 years. This program is aimed at providing support, development and cross-sport collaboration as a resource to increase retention and advancement.”

Mentor Program participants, who included head and assistant coaches, administrators, and board members, were paired with two other participants to form mentor program trios. The program featured gold level mentors, silver level mentors/mentees, and bronze level mentees. Participants came from 45 different universities, clubs, organizations, and high school programs. Each person gave back to the coaching community and sought to empower future generations of coaches by creating a culture of growth, empathy, positivity, and respect.

This networking and professional development opportunity highlights the importance of mentoring as a channel for professional retention and advancement. Applications for the 2018-19 Mentor Program will be available July 26th through August 15th, 2018.

The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier membership organization dedicated to the recruitment, advancement, and retention of women coaches of all sports and levels. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches and the Mentor Program, visit www.gocoaches.org.

What Participants Are Saying About the Alliance of Women Coaches Mentor Program…

Working in college athletics requires a strong network of people you can trust. I was lucky enough to add two incredible women to my network through the mentoring program offered by The Alliance of Women Coaches. Our monthly discussions were both impactful and meaningful. I’ve really enjoyed the mentoring process and have not only been able to help my peers, but also learn from them at the same time. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience and the friendships we have built will continue beyond the end of the program.
– Kristy Duncan, Illinois College, Head Coach, Volleyball

I have enjoyed the mentor program so much this year. I have even seen a difference in how I am with new coaches in swimming and reaching out to them more. This program has been great. I would do it again!
– Jeanne Fleck, Fresno State, Head Coach, Swimming & Diving

As a young coach new to the profession, the mentor program really expanded my horizons and helped develop my coaching philosophies through the experiences and stories of my mentors. I was fortunate to have a veteran head coach, as well as administrator to talk through all the issues and opportunities that arise as female coaches. These ladies were amazing role models and their passion for sport and growing the profession were obvious every call we had. I am grateful I had the chance to be involved in the mentor program and believe it would be an asset for any coach or administrator with a desire to grow.
– Caroline Powers, Michigan State, Assistant Coach, Women’s Golf

Mentoring strong, dedicated women who seek to be their best is a passion of mine. Mentoring at its best is a commitment from the mentor and the mentee to believe in the process and each other so that everyone grows through honest and candid conversations. It has been exciting for me to see the process that I used in my business career translate well with great coaches. I could not be more pleased with the work that my Alliance of Women Coaches’ mentor cohort did this year. I was teamed up with Kristy Duncan (Head Coach of Women’s Volleyball at Illinois College) and Colleen Doherty (Assistant Coach of Rugby at Quinnipiac University). The truth is, I learned as much from them as they learned from me and therefore I know we met the criteria for ‘mentoring at its best’.
– Elizabeth King, Managing Partner, Elizabeth M. King Consulting, LLC, and Alliance of Women Coaches Board Member

My experience in the Mentor Program was excellent! I was a silver mentor and learned so much from both our gold mentor and bronze mentee. We were not only able to share what was currently going on in our lives, but we also were able to talk about relevant topics that directly impact the sustainability and advancement of our careers. Most importantly, we were able to encourage and support one another.
– Stephanie Wheeler, University of Illinois, Head Coach, Women’s Wheelchair Basketball

The mentor program has been a great resource for me this year. As a first-year head coach, it provided a network of support and a comfortable space to ask questions and bounce ideas around with other coaches. One of the really great things was that one of the other women in my group was in a similar place with her team. It didn’t matter that our sports were completely different, at the end of the day, we are all working toward similar goals. I am so thankful to be a part of the program. I know that not only will these women be in my professional network, they will be wonderful friends.
– Britt Adell, Colgate University, Head Coach, Rowing

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches has announced the addition of Marci Kornegay to their national office staff.

Kornegay, a former NCAA Division I golf coach and LPGA Teaching Professional, will begin her position as Director of Membership on July 16. “We are thrilled to add someone of Marci’s caliber to our staff,” said Megan Kahn, Alliance Executive Director. “Her experience in both the coaching profession and business sector will be invaluable to the growth of the Alliance. I have no doubt her ability to relate to coaches and build relationships with other industry professionals will make an immediate impact.”

Kornegay has over 20 years of experience in golf, including her 4-year playing career at Ole Miss and assistant coach positions in the SEC. During her tenure as head coach at University of South Florida, she garnered two Big East Coach of the Year honors in 2010 and 2012. To this day, Marci still has players experiencing success on the professional tour. Kornegay is also a 2011 graduate of the NCAA’s partner program with the Alliance, the NCAA Women Coaches Academy.

“I am inspired by the talents and resiliency of women coaches today,” said Kornegay. “Being in a role to elevate the membership experience and help grow our Alliance makes me extremely proud. I am eager to connect with the leaders of our next generation and continue the important work of the Alliance.”

Marci understands the balance of having a strong work ethic and having fun. In 2016, she completed a 2,189 mile thru-hike from Maine to Georgia on the world renowned Appalachian Trail. For the past year she has been in Real Estate in Savannah, Georgia. When Marci is not seeking community engagement or continuing her personal growth, she enjoys golfing, hiking, biking and photography.

The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier membership organization dedicated to the recruitment, advancement, and retention of women coaches of all sports and levels. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

What They’re Saying About Marci…

Marci is a great addition to the Alliance! She has great energy and connects with people very easily. Her sense of humor is tops too; never hurts in this business!
– Melissa Luellen, Auburn University, Head Women’s Golf Coach

Marci will be a great addition and complement our existing staff. Her experiences, energy, passion and commitment to women coaches will help us grow into the future.
– Nicole M. LaVoi, Ph.D., Tucker Center for Research on Girls and Women in Sport, Co-Director, and founding member, Alliance Board of Directors

I couldn’t be more excited for the Alliance with the recent hiring of Marci Kornegay as the Director of Membership. Marci and I were graduates of the 25th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy in 2011. We have stayed in touch ever since through phone calls, social media, golf tournaments, even following her journey as she conquered the Appalachian Trail! I can specifically remember Marci reaching out to me when we won NCAAs on the women’s side and most recently when I was inducted into the University of Georgia’s Circle of Honor. Women coaches empowering other coaches across all sports, that’s what it’s all about. Congrats Marci and the Alliance!
– Stefanie Williams Moreno, University of Georgia, Assistant Swimming Coach

I am thrilled to learn that Marci will be joining the fabulous Alliance of Women Coaches team. My time at USF with ‘Coach Marci’ is summarized by simply bringing coaches and administrators together. She is most certainly passionate about building relationships and highly skilled at empowering others. Those two talents combined will elevate the great work of the Alliance.
– Marcy Lanoue, University of San Diego, Senior Associate AD for External Affairs/SWA

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches hosted the 45th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) from June 14-17 at the Hilton Denver Inverness in Englewood, Colorado. Forty-nine female coaches of all experience levels and sports from NCAA Division I, II and III gathered for four days of non-sport-specific educational training. Core to its mission of providing a diverse and inclusive climate, for the first-time, the Academy included a deaf-coach, Meghan Maiwald, assistant women’s soccer coach at Gallaudet University.

“The NCAA Women Coaches Academy provided another phenomenal experience for these forty-nine coaches,” said Alliance Executive Director Megan Kahn. “We continue to receive feedback that these four days are life-changing, on both personal and professional levels as these women navigate their career paths. We are appreciative of the NCAA’s partnership in offering this much needed program to keep and advance women in the game.”

The coaches participated in full group and small breakout sessions on leadership, diversity, mindfulness, legal protections, communication, career advancement, Title IX and history of women in sport, and work-life balance to name a few.

“The NCAA/Alliance of Women Coaches Academy Class 45 was another outstanding group of coaches who joined together for a transformative professional development experience in Denver last week, said the NCAA’s Director of Inclusion, Amy Wilson. “The Alliance provided an excellent slate of presenters on pertinent and significant subjects, proving again that it is dedicated to supporting women’s persistence and empowering their success in the coaching profession.”

Ithaca College Head Women’s Rowing Coach, Becky Robinson, and Bridgewater College Assistant to the Director of Riding, Kamerra Brown Allen, were selected as the Judy Sweet Award winners for Class #45. This award, named after Alliance of Women Coaches co-founder Judy Sweet, recognizes two members at each Academy whose spirit and dedication to their own and to others’ personal and professional success has made an impact on their peers. The honor is granted via nomination by fellow classmates.

NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #45

Sofie Aagaard, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Head Coach, Golf
Xeni Barakos-Yoder, East Stroudsburg University, Head Coach, Lacrosse
Allyson Baribault, SUNY Oneonta, Head Coach, Lacrosse
Jill Batcheller, Bryant University, Head Coach, Lacrosse
Lyndsey Bevill, Saint Leo University, Head Coach, Golf
Anastasia Bitis , CUNY York College, Head Coach, Basketball
Wendy Bordeau, Dartmouth College , Head Coach, Rowing
Kamerra Brown Allen, Bridgewater College, Assistant to the Director, Equestrian
Allison Carter, Bucknell University, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Tarah Christenson, Nazareth College, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Caitlin Connolly, Lasell College, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Angela Dendas-Pleasant, Lewis & Clark College, Head Coach, Strength & Conditioning
Devin Dougherty, University of San Francisco, Assistant Coach, Golf
Brittney Emmons, Southeast Missouri State University, Head Coach, Gymnastics
Meghan French, Pomona-Pitzer Colleges, Associate Head Coach, Swimming & Diving
Mia Fruge, Smith College, Head Coach, Volleyball
Alicia Galindo, Cal Poly Pomona, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Emily Garner, Trinity College, Head Coach, Basketball
Michelle Goodwin, University of Tulsa, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Brittany Harris, Oregon State University, Graduate Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Jordan Hill, Emory University, Assistant Coach, Track & Field
Brianna Holder, Pepperdine University, Assistant Coach, Strength & Conditioning
Taylor Hollander, Sacramento State University, Assistant Coach, Tennis
Katie Kollar, SUNY Cobleskill, Head Coach, Basketball
Morgan Korinek, Kenyon College, Assistant Coach, Basketball
Kelly Lawrence, Syracuse University, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Jennifer Llewellyn, Lindenwood University, Head Coach, Gymnastics
Julie Lundquist, University of St. Thomas, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Meghan Maiwald, Gallaudet University, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Leah McDermott, Lebanon Valley College, Head Coach, Soccer
Megan Mitchell, University of Central Florida, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Jamie Montgomery, University of Richmond, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Alison Muenz-Winkler, Saint Louis University, Associate Coach, Sports Performance
Madeline Norton, College of the Holy Cross, Assistant Coach, Ice Hockey
Samantha Oyola, CUNY York College, Head Coach, Swimming
Megan Patrick, Loyola University Maryland, Head Coach, Rowing
Katie Rees, Adelphi University, Head Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Trish Riddell, Florida Southern College, Head Coach, Tennis
Cassandra Ringer, Illinois State University, Graduate Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Becky Robinson, Ithaca College, Head Coach, Rowing
April Sanchez, Idaho State University, Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Carla Schubiger, Oregon State University, Volunteer Assistant Coach, Triathlon
Kathryn Schumann, Utica College, Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Betsy Sedlak, University of Portland, Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Sabrina Smith, Husson University, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Grace Sokolow, Austin College, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Andi Tostanoski, Hawaii Pacific University, Graduate Assistant Coach, Soccer
Alexa Tovella, University of Wisconsin Platteville, Assistant Coach, Basketball
Noel Wees, Colby College, Assistant Coach, Softball

For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches hosted the 44th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) from May 30-June 2 at the Hilton Denver Inverness in Englewood, Colorado. Forty-seven female coaches of all experience levels and sports from NCAA Division I, II and III gathered for four days of non-sport-specific educational training.

“The NCAA Women Coaches Academy continues to provide the necessary and needed education, development and support to female coaches,” said Alliance Executive Director Megan Kahn. “The transformative experience and unique environment allows women coaches to connect across all three divisions and sports. We are thankful for the partnership of the NCAA and their investment in the lives and careers of these coaches.”

The coaches participated in full group and small breakout sessions on leadership, diversity, team culture, communication, career advancement, Title IX and history of women in sport, and work-life balance to name a few.

“The NCAA Office of Inclusion thanks the Alliance of Women Coaches, our outstanding partners who provided a meaningful and life-changing professional development opportunity for female coaches in Denver last week,” stated Amy Wilson, the NCAA Director of Inclusion. “The Academy Class of 44 is a group of amazing, talented women who formed a network and gained knowledge that will support their efforts to persist and to succeed in the coaching profession.”

The NCAA Women Coaches Academy was held in conjunction with the Women Leaders in College Sports program, the NCAA Institute for Administrators Advancement. The two organizations held a joint session bringing female coaches and administrators together for focused dialogue, learning and networking.

University of California Berkeley Head Field Hockey Coach, Shellie Onstead, and Azusa Pacific University Head Women’s Water Polo Coach, Julie Snodgrass, were selected as the Judy Sweet Award winners for Class #44. The award, named after Alliance co-founder Judy Sweet, recognizes two members at each WCA whose spirit and dedication to their own and to others’ personal and professional success has made an impact on their peers. The honor is granted via nomination by fellow classmates.

NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #44

Indira Avila, CUNY York College, Head Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Amber Barker, Albany State University, Head Coach, Softball
Amy Berbary, Indiana University, Head Coach, Soccer
Emily Boerger, Merrimack College, Assistant Coach, Lacrosse
Amy Briggs, Central College, Assistant Coach, Basketball
Nicole Buchholz, George Washington University, Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Jennifer Charles, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Robin Confer, University of North Florida, Head Coach, Soccer
Alex Covington, Millikin University, Head Coach, Tennis
Traci Dahl, Cal Poly Pomona, Associate Head Coach, Volleyball
Michelle Dasso, University of Notre Dame, Assistant Coach, Tennis
Ashley Dell, University of Iowa, Assistant Coach, Swimming
Teressa DiPerna, Dominican University of California, Head Coach, Cross Country
Casi Donelan-Dobbins, Bard College, Head Coach, Basketball
Kelly Evans, Harvard University, Assistant Coach, Rowing
Tammy Farnum, Michigan State University, Associate Head Coach, Soccer
Ann Farrier, Southern Connecticut State University, Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Lisa Ferrero, Towson University, Head Coach, Golf
Keva Godfrey, Agnes Scott College, Head Coach, Tennis
Lyndse Hokanson, Georgetown University, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Ashley Holmes, Augsburg University, Assistant Coach, Ice Hockey
Trang Huynh, Northern Illinois University, Graduate Assistant Coach, Tennis
Whitney Johnson, Delaware State University, Head Coach, Volleyball
Akasha Kasper, Limestone College, Assistant Coach, Lacrosse
Nikki Kelsey-Huffman, Northern Arizona University, Head Coach, Diving
Sara Kettelkamp, UC Colorado Springs, Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Hollie Loud, University of North Alabama, Assistant Coach, Soccer
Natalie Marlowe, University of Texas at Dallas, Assistant Coach, Basketball
Amy Marron, St. John’s University, Assistant Coach , Soccer
Alice McCall, Florida Atlantic University, Assistant Coach, Swimming
Moe Melhart, Cal State Monterey Bay, Head Coach, Volleyball
Taylor Mendez, University of Mary, Graduate Assistant Coach, Softball
Shellie  Onstead, University of California Berkeley, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Jenna Peanasky, Iowa State University, Assistant Coach, Strength & Conditioning
Elizabeth Pike, Shenandoah University, Head Coach, Soccer
Caroline Powers, Michigan State University, Assistant Coach, Golf
Kelsy Ross, Bates College, Head Coach, Soccer
Ariana Ruela, Rutgers University–Newark, Head Coach, Soccer
Liza Ruetten, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Head Coach, Golf
Juliana Santos, Dominican University of California, Head Coach, Softball
Haley Schoolfield, Texas Christian University, Head Coach, Equestrian
Danielle Shelburne, Stetson University, Head Coach, Golf
Cori Smith, Utah State University, Director of Operations, Basketball
Julie Snodgrass, Azusa Pacific University, Head Coach, Water Polo
Julie Swiney, Slippery Rock University, Head Coach, Field Hockey
Ashley Walker, Mississippi Valley State University, Head Coach, Basketball
Beth Ann Wilson, Marymount University, Head Coach, Volleyball
Heather Young, Clemson University, Assistant Coach, Golf

For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches has announced a new member, Kari Escobedo, to join the Board of Directors. Escobedo begins a three-year term.

“We are looking forward to Kari being on the Alliance of Women Coaches Board of Directors,” said Board of Directors President Cecile Reynaud. “She brings a business expertise that we can tap into, so we can continue to grow the organization and recruit, train and retain female coaches at all levels.”

Escobedo serves as the Executive Director of the Enterprise & Digital Services at Kaiser Permanente and is focused on Digital Transformation for Customer Experience, Digital & Mobile Channels and the Operations of the Enterprise functions of HR, Finance, Supply Chain, Content & Collaboration and Legal.

Throughout her career, Escobedo has served as Vice President of Enterprise Systems Application for Customer, Marketing and Mobile divisions for T-Mobile, as well as a Director of Information Management and CISO for Starbucks Coffee Company.

Outside of the workplace, Escobedo enjoys participating in a variety of organizations dedicated to the empowerment of children and women in STEM fields through IGNITE and Code.org, where she regularly speaks at schools and mentors young girls. She was also named Top 100 Diverse Leaders in STEM.

“I am excited to join the Alliance of Women Coaches Board at an exciting time in the organization’s growth and look forward to leveraging my past experience as a technologist and business transformation leader to provide advice as they continue to look at new areas of growth,” said Escobedo. “This role gives me the opportunity to blend my passion for women’s athletics that started back as a softball player in college and has only grown as I have coached and led women’s softball leagues at both the local and national levels, as well as the ability to help make positive impacts for my own children!”

The Alliance of Women Coaches is the premier membership organization dedicated to the recruitment, advancement and retention of women coaches of all sports and levels.

For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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The Alliance of Women Coaches, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, and the Sunshine State Conference have partnered to offer a one-day workshop for women coaches in the state of Florida.

“As an organization with a strong national presence, I am excited for the Alliance to offer this unique development opportunity to women coaches across the state,” said Megan Kahn, Alliance of Women Coaches Executive Director.

“The Tampa Bay Sports Commission is thrilled to be joining forces with the Alliance of Women Coaches and the Sunshine State Conference in hosting a Women Coaches Regional Workshop that is expected to draw female collegiate coaches from across the state.We are confident that our community and Amalie Arena will provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable and successful event,” said Claire Lessinger, TBSC Director of Special Events.

The event, scheduled for Monday, April 9 at Amalie Arena, will focus on relevant issues and common challenges women coaches face and will offer practical ideas that can be implemented immediately. The day will feature sessions and panels, headlined by Mary Wise, legendary head volleyball coach at the University of Florida, and will also include several successful coaches and administrators from around the state. Registration for the workshop opens today.

“The Sunshine State Conference is excited to partner with the Alliance of Women Coaches and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission to host this important workshop for women coaches, administrators and students in the conference’s footprint,” stated SSC Commissioner Ed Pasque. The Sunshine State Conference is the first NCAA Division II Conference to partner with the Alliance to host a regional workshop.

Please visit gocoaches.org for additional information on registration, schedule of events and speakers.

 

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

About Tampa Bay Sports Commission
The Tampa Bay Sports Commission is a private, non-profit, 501c3, charitable corporation that serves the entire Tampa Bay area as the lead organization for bidding on and hosting premier sports and entertainment events. Through this, we will achieve our mission of creating social and economic impact throughout the Tampa Bay region. For more information, visit www.tampabaysports.org.

About the Sunshine State Conference
Founded in 1975, the Sunshine State Conference has risen from a single sports organization to the Division II “Conference of National Champions.” Since its inception, the conference has shown steady growth in sports played, membership, and national prominence. The SSC consists of 11 member institutions, all within the state of Florida: Barry University, Eckerd College, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida Institute of Technology, Florida Southern College, Lynn University, Nova Southeastern University, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Rollins College, Saint Leo University, and the University of Tampa. For more information, visit www.sunshinestateconference.com.

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The Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport at the University of Minnesota honored National Girls & Women in Sport

Day, Wednesday February 7, with the release of its annual Women in College Coaching Report Card.

Produced in collaboration with the Alliance of Women Coaches, the report documents the percentage of women in head coaching positions at institutions in seven select NCAA Division-I conferences (AAC, ACC, Big East, B1G Ten, Big 12, PAC-12, SEC) for 2017-18.

Key Findings:

• The percentage of women head coaches of women’s teams went up for the 5th year in a row and is now at 41.5%
• In 60% of vacant head coach positions, a male was hired, 14% were of female head coaches were replaced by a new male head coach
• Cincinnati and University of Central Florida were the only institutions to be awarded an A grade.
• Nine institutions earned F grades
• None of the select 7 NCAA D-I conferences received above a C grade

To read the full report, download the infographic, discover how the report is making a difference, learn about interesting trends (including insight into which of the 86 select “big time” NCAA Division-I institutions, sports and conferences receive passing and failing grades, and see the NCAA D-III and D-II Report Cards visit the Tucker Center website: www.TuckerCenter.org

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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ATLANTA — The Women’s Basketball Coaches Association, in partnership with the Alliance of Women Coaches, is pleased to announce the class for the 16th annual “So You Want To Be A Coach” program. Each member will participate in the three-day workshop with speakers provided by the Alliance on March 28-30 in conjunction with the WBCA Convention in Columbus, Ohio.

The objectives of the “So” program are to increase the understanding and application of skills necessary to secure coaching positions in women’s basketball, increase the understanding and awareness of competencies necessary for success in coaching, introduce female basketball players to coaches and administrators, and raise awareness of the existing talent pool of female basketball players who have a passion and interest in coaching the game of women’s basketball.

“ ‘So You Want To Be A Coach’ is the longest-running education program the WBCA offers, and it remains as popular with member coaches and student-athletes today as it was when it began 15 years ago,” said WBCA Executive Director Danielle Donehew. “ ‘So’ is the entry point for women’s basketball players who want to coach. Because of their participation in it, more than 400 former college women’s basketball players are currently working as coaches or in some role in our sport. Our new partnership with the Alliance will enable us to make this already successful program even better.”

“The WBCA has set the bar high for the ‘So’ program,” said Megan Kahn, executive director of the Alliance of Women Coaches. “Joining in partnership, the Alliance is excited to help pave a way for these student-athletes to continue to be involved in the game of basketball. We look forward to welcoming, educating and inspiring these aspiring coaches.”

Here are the members of the 2018 “So You Want To Be A Coach” program class:

Name	Institution
Dyandria Anderson	University of Florida
Ashley Barker	Marietta College
Khadijah Berger	Temple University
Halie Bergman	University of Nevada
Camden Boehner	West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Quanetria Bolton	University of Alabama
Kari Borowiak	Concordia University (MI)
Jay-Ann Bravo-Harriott	University of Toledo
Ja’Da Brayboy	University of North Carolina – Asheville
Molly Brown	University of Southern Mississippi
Brandi Buie	Jacksonville University
Shaylen Burnett	Elon University
LeTisha Caldwell	Cincinnati Christian University
Laura Castaldo	University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Jasmine Cincore	University of Nebraska
Emily Clemens	Western Illinois University
Caitland Considine	Coker College
Remy Davenport	Truman State University
Jenny DeGraaf	University of North Carolina-Wilmington
Jasmine Demers	Buena Vista University
Jillian Dunston	University of Michigan
Jennifer Dynis	University of Illinois
Amanda Fioravanti	Saint Joseph’s University
Maggie Flynn	Flagler College
Danielle Franklin	Valparaiso University
Adashia Franklyn	Saint Joseph’s University
Taylor Gleason	Oakland University
Tiara Goode	Coppin State University
Brittany Greene	University of Southern Mississippi
Shelby Holmes	Eastern Nazarene College
Cassidy Joyner	Lenoir-Rhyne University
Jordan Korinek	Kent State University
Mackenzie Latt	Davidson College
Hannah Lepaio	Newberry College
Laney Lewis	Ursuline College
Samantha Lisikatos	State University College at Oneonta
Adebisi Mabodu	University of North Texas
Kelsey McClure	University of West Georgia
Lulu McKinney	Texas A&M University
Camille McPherson	Moravian College
Jalisa Mitchell	Harris Stowe State University
Kolby Morgan	Tulane University
Brooke Orcutt	Case Western Reserve University
Abby Owings	Thomas More College
Charnelle Reed	Lewis University
Chantel Roberts	Chowan University
Brianna Rowe	Concordia University (MI)
Allison Spaschak	Ithaca College
Madeline Staples	University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Ni’ya Styles	University of Mount Olive
Amani Tatum	Manhattan College
Naqaiyyah Teague	Jacksonville University
Sheana Vega	Liberty University
Anna Walther	Roger Williams University
Monterika Warren	Bethune Cookman University
Aries Washington	University of Missouri – Kansas City
Dominique Williams	University of California – Los Angeles
Emily Wood	University of Nebraska
Bre Zanders	Lindenwood University
Camille Zimmerman	Columbia University
Kat Wright	University of Arizona
Danielle Williams	University of Michigan

“So” participants are provided with professional development and career networking opportunities. They will learn about the administrative side of coaching, recruiting, how to get hired, skill development, the importance of knowing the rules, and how to balance work and life.

Qualified candidates are selected from a list of nominees who have exhausted their final year of basketball eligibility at a four-year institution or have graduated within the past year. The candidate’s head coach must nominate them and be an active WBCA member. Each participant is picked based on her academics, contributions to women’s basketball on and off the court, professional resume and a written recommendation from their head coach.

The WBCA “So” program has graduated 814 participants in its 15-year history. Of these, 54 percent (not counting the 2017 class) are currently working in women’s or girls’ basketball at various levels of the profession. A total of 53 “So” alumni are head women’s or girls’ basketball coaches — five in NCAA Division I, three in NCAA Division II, 11 in NCAA Division III, one in the NAIA, four on the two-year college level, and 29 on the high school level.

Visit www.WBCA.org for more information on the “So” program.

About the WBCA
Founded in 1981, the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association is the professional association for coaches of women’s and girls’ basketball at all levels of competition. The WBCA offers educational resources that coaches need to help make themselves better leaders, teachers and mentors to their players; provides opportunities for coaches to connect with peers in the profession; serves as the unifying voice of a diverse community of coaches to the organizations that control the game; and celebrates those coaches, players and other individuals who excel each year and contribute to the advancement of the sport. Visit www.WBCA.org for more details about the Association.

About the Alliance of Women Coaches
The Alliance of Women Coaches was founded in 2011 and has become the premier organization that empowers the community of women coaches, across all sports and levels, with the education and resources they need to stay and advance in the profession. By providing a supportive network, inspiration and knowledge, and access to in-person and digital platforms, the Alliance is changing the landscape for women in coaching. For more information on the Alliance of Women Coaches, visit www.gocoaches.org.

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