NEWS RELEASES 2025

November 10, 2025 – WeCOACH is thrilled to announce the upcoming 55th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA), set to take place November 16-18, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Hosted in collaboration with the NCAA, this impactful Academy offers a multi-day transformational experience focused on leadership development and personal growth for women coaches from all sports and collegiate levels, including both two-year and four-year institutions. Since its inception, more than 2,400 coaches have graduated from the NCAA WCA.

WCA Class #55 features 78 women coaches representing 18 different sports, and 679 total years of coaching experience. Participants come from a diverse collection of institutions across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, as well as the NAIA and NJCAA.

“The NCAA is proud to continue its partnership with WeCOACH as we welcome the 55th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy to our National Office in Indianapolis,” said DeeDee Merritt Guster, NCAA Managing Director of Leadership Development. “We are especially excited to help host this year’s class in our home city, where our mission to educate and empower student-athletes, coaches, and athletics administrators comes to life every day through our operations and leadership programming. This Academy continues to deliver transformative learning experiences that strengthen leadership and support the advancement and retention of women coaches in collegiate athletics. WeCOACH remains an invaluable partner in this work – and through collaborations like this, we are able to broaden our reach and deepen our impact across the coaching community.”

“The Academy experience is nothing short of transformational,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH. “Bringing this program to the NCAA National Office further elevates the impact — immersing women coaches in an environment committed to advancing leadership and strengthening the future of college sports. Our participants leave feeling renewed and equipped with tools, strategies, and a powerful sisterhood of support that extends far beyond the Academy. Data continues to show that our graduates remain in the coaching profession at rates well above the national average — and that retention is exactly the kind of change we are dedicated to scaling alongside the NCAA. We’re also incredibly proud to expand access by awarding more than $38,000 in scholarship funding for Indianapolis participants, thanks to the generosity of our donors and partners.”

A highlight of this year’s Academy will be the presentation of the 2024-25 WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Jostens, to Tara VanDerveer for her lasting impact on the coaching profession. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights and inspiration through a keynote conversation with Coach VanDerveer.

The Academy will also feature a powerhouse panel of distinguished women—Raquel Atawo (WCA #52), Sharon Clark (WCA #4), Lin Dunn, Deanna Gumpf (WCA #25), Britt Harvey (WCA #42/A2.0 #2), Carol “Hutch” Hutchins, Lori Kerans (WCA #33), Muffet McGraw, Shonda Stanton (WCA #36), and moderated by DeeDee Merritt Guster, Managing Director of NCAA Leadership Development. The panel titled Coaches Unfiltered: The Ask Anything Panel,” will allow WCA participants to engage authentically with these trailblazers to share experiences, insights, and advice.

WeCOACH extends deep gratitude to the NCAA for its longstanding support. WeCOACH also wants to extend thanks to this year’s generous Academy Partners whose support makes these programs possible: BAND, BSN SPORTS, Gatorade, Hudl, Marines, Simple Modern, Alex Morgan Foundation, Athlete Assessments, Bakline, Becky Ahlgren Bedics Consulting, The Coaches’ Coach (Betsy Butterick), Equitable Advisors (Latrice Smith), Jostens, LoveAthlete (Nevin Caple), Natasha Watley Foundation, The Sports Bra Project, This One Media, and the Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport.

Several conferences and sport associations also stepped up to support our NCAA Women Coaches Academy as sponsors: College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW), Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC), Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC), Liberty League, Mid-American Conference (MAC), National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association (NCATA), New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC), National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), Pac-12 Conference, Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC), and Sunshine State Conference (SSC).

November 16-18 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #55 Participants:
Jade Antolik | Eckerd College – Head Coach, Beach Volleyball
Lala Aviles Jimenez | Kentucky Wesleyan College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Mandi Baer | Penn State Harrisburg – Head Coach, Softball
Allyson Baker | University of Pennsylvania – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Anna Beck | Smith College – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Maliah Blakemore | Knox College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Lisa Brooks | Monroe University – Head Coach, Softball
Elle Buffenbarger | University of Dayton – Assistant Coach, Softball
Ari Cambio | Colby College – Associate Head Coach, Lacrosse
Tatiana Cava | Occidental College – Assistant Coach, Water Polo
Cori Chom-Rees | DePauw University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Jen Clements | Shippensburg University – Assistant Coach, Soccer
Margareth Collantes | Trinidad State College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Caitlyn Corace | Catawba College – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Samantha Cozzolino | Tiffin University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Natoya Davidson | University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff – Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Taya DiAngelo | Saint Joseph’s University – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Abigail Ernst | Oregon State University – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Leslie Escobar | Whittier College – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Tatum Etchegoyen-Springer | University of Redlands – Head Coach, Flag Football
Samm Firestone | Saint Vincent College – Head Coach, Golf
Holly Frantz | University of Maryland – Head Strength and Conditioning, Softball
Lexi Funk | University of Pittsburgh – Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Hannah Galloway | Adrian College – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Sophie Gardner | Augustana University – Assistant Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Ra’sha Gladney | Elizabeth City State University – Head Coach, Volleyball
Jerrica Grant | Emmanuel University – Head Coach, Cheer
Rachel Gray | North Central College – Head Coach, Golf
Venecca Green | Rust College – Head Coach, Tennis
Beth Greenwood | Vassar College – Assistant Coach, Baseball
Lauren Grogan | Denison University – Head Coach, Golf
Samantha Guillaume | SUNY Morrisville – Head Coach, Softball
Chance Hendricks | Westminster College – Graduate Assistant Coach, Soccer
Cassie Hendrix | Indiana University – Assistant Coach, Softball
Rachel Hickey | Kalamazoo College – Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Kinley Hickok | Willamette University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Samantha Higgins | Eastern Michigan University – Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Amanda Higgs | Kentucky Wesleyan College – Head Coach, Cheer
Renee Horton | University of Missouri – Associate Head Coach, Soccer
Jo Hyatt | UNCG – Assistant Coach, Softball
Jill Leibforth | Kalamazoo College – Head Coach, Soccer
Kiki Lorann | Heidelberg University – Head Coach, Golf
Caitlin Lowery | Concordia University Wisconsin – Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Caressa Maichle | Susquehanna University – Head Coach, Softball
Nicole Marek | Michigan State University – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Abby McGue | DePauw University – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Reba McLennan | George Fox University – Director & Coach, STUNT
Emily Miller | Kenyon College – Head Coach, Softball
LtCol Evita Mosqueda | United States Marine Corps – Lieutenant Colonel
Lexi Nielsen | Long Beach State University – Assistant Coach, Golf
Davina Orieukwu | UMBC – Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Ellen Parkey, MS, CSCS | Tulane University – Strength Coach, Beach Volleyball
Leah Pearman | Washington State University – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Jordyn Perez Pugh | Loyola University Maryland – Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Lisa Powell | Alcorn State University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Amanda Prather | Franklin College – Assistant Coach, Softball
Julie Pratt | Oberlin College – Head Coach, Softball
Jenee Rago | Aurora University – Strength Coach
Angelina Ramos | Southern Illinois University Carbondale – Head Coach, Cross Country
Ana Ramos | Mississippi University for Women – Head Coach, Soccer
Marnie Reidell | Lincoln Memorial University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Jillian Roberts | Oberlin College – Assistant Coach, Track & Field
Brittany Rueb | Francis Marion University – Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Olivia Shagam | DePauw University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Gabrielle Smart | DePauw University – Head Coach, Softball
Suzette Soboti | University of Redlands – Head Coach, Soccer
Morgan Stenson | Aurora University – Assistant Athletic Director
Breana Sumpter | LaGrange College – Head Coach, Flag Football
Katie Tenboer | Millikin University – Associate Athletic Director
Felicia Thomas | Kalamazoo Valley CC – Head Coach, Basketball
Jennifer Thomas | Seattle University – Assistant Coach, Crew
Mo Triner | Florida Southern College – Head Coach, Softball
Jessica Villegas | Elizabeth City State University – Head Coach, Softball
Morgan Vogels | Millikin University – Asst. Director of Athletics/Sports Information
Jess Vormelker | Thiel College – Head Coach, Basketball
Jenilee Voss | Wisconsin Lutheran College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Kathy Wagner | University of Texas at Arlington – Head Strength and Conditioning Coach
Abi Wild | Tarleton State University – Assistant Coach, Tennis
Gabby Wilson | University of Michigan – Gymnastics

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

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ABOUT THE NCAA

The National Collegiate Athletic Association provides a world-class athletics and academic experience that fosters lifelong well-being for more than 520,000 student-athletes annually. The NCAA stages 91 championships across three divisions, and its 1,100 member schools provide nearly $4 billion in athletics scholarships every year. Visit ncaa.org and ncaa.com for more.

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 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color. Only 6% of coaches of men’s teams are women. At the youth level, the data are difficult to estimate, but approximately fewer than 26% 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.

USA Weightlifting and WeCOACH Team Up to Empower Women Coaches

October 3, 2025

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October 3, 2025 – WeCOACH is proud to announce a new partnership with USA Weightlifting (USAW), the national governing body for Olympic weightlifting in the United States. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the shared mission to increase gender equity and elevate women in the coaching profession. WeCOACH and USA Weightlifting will launch a series of initiatives aimed at supporting, educating, and empowering women coaches.

Through this strategic alliance, WeCOACH memberships will be provided to USAW coaches, and access to USAW’s Coaching Fundamentals Courses and opportunities to complete Level 1 and 2 Coach Certification courses will be provided to WeCOACH members, all to assist coaches with advancing their careers. The partnership kicked off with USAW coaches participating in the recent WeCOACH Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy held on August 16.

“This partnership is a powerful statement about what’s possible when organizations unite around a shared purpose,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH. “Together with USA Weightlifting, we’re creating pathways for women to thrive in coaching roles and lead with confidence in a traditionally male-dominated space.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to elevating the coaching profession by investing in women coaches across all levels of our sport—from grassroots to high performance,” said Dr. Anna Swisher, Director of Coach Development and Sport Science at USA Weightlifting. “By connecting USA Weightlifting coaches with WeCOACH’s powerful network and educational resources, and welcoming WeCOACH members into our coach certification pathways, we’re expanding access, strengthening our community, and supporting coaches in building both their technical expertise and leadership skills. WeCOACH has done so much to empower and support women coaches; it’s an honor to partner with them and continue to deliver professional development for women coaches.”

WeCOACH members interested in accessing USAW’s Coaching Fundamentals Courses may click here. For more information about this partnership and upcoming initiatives, visit wecoachsports.org.

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ABOUT USA WEIGHTLIFTING
USA Weightlifting, a member of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), is the National Governing Body for the Olympic sport of weightlifting in the United States. The mission of USA Weightlifting is to grow and develop weightlifting to support lifelong participation and achieve Olympic podium success. For over 40 years, the USAW Level 1 Coach Certification is recognized as the gold standard in weightlifting education. To better support women coaches, USAW created the Women’s Coaching Collective, which provides opportunities for professional development, education, and mentorship. To learn more and sign up, please visit Women’s Coaching Collective. For more information about USAW, visit USAWeightlifting.org.

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 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color. 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.

Continental Athletic Conference Joins WeCOACH as Conference-Wide Member

August 20, 2025

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August 20, 2025 – WeCOACH is proud to announce the Continental Athletic Conference (CAC) as our newest conference-wide member for the 2025-26 academic year. This partnership provides all women coaches within the CAC access to year-round leadership programming and member benefits designed to recruit, advance, and retain women in the coaching profession.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Continental Athletic Conference to our growing community of conference-wide members,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH. “This partnership reflects the CAC’s strong commitment to supporting and investing in the development of women coaches across all sports and institutions in the conference. Together, we are building a more inclusive, empowered coaching landscape.”

The CAC joins a growing list of conferences nationwide partnering with WeCOACH to expand access to professional growth, community, and leadership development resources for women in coaching. Through this membership, CAC women coaches will have access to year-round programs such as the NCAA Women Coaches Academy, WeMENTOR, WeCONNECT and many others.

“The Continental Athletic Conference is proud to partner with WeCOACH, allowing us to support the many women coaching in our league. As a unique NAIA conference with institutions located geographically across the country and Canada, we are excited that this partnership will provide extensive resources which will have a transformational impact on our women coaches and their student-athletes,” said Meg Schebler, Commissioner of the Continental Athletic Conference.

To learn more about WeCOACH membership click here or email memberships@wecoachsports.org.

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ABOUT THE CONTINENTAL ATHLETIC CONFERENCE
The purpose of the Continental Athletic Conference is to promote the education, development and welfare of student-athletes through their various experiences and participation in NAIA intercollegiate athletics. The conference consists of 12 institutions located throughout the United States and Canada, as well as 12 associate members that join the league in five respective sports. The league sponsors 13 Conference Championships hosted by member institutions throughout the academic year.

WeCOACH to Host Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy Class #5 Fueled by Gatorade

August 15, 2025

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August 15, 2025 – WeCOACH will host its fifth annual Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy Fueled by Gatorade, on August 16, 2025. Established in 2021, this dynamic virtual leadership program, inspired by the premier WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academy, welcomes youth, club, middle and high school women coaches from all sports.

Through a blend of expert-led workshops, interactive peer-to-peer learning, and collaborative discussions, the Academy advances holistic coaching by building leadership skills and strategies that drive personal growth and professional success. Participants engage in an inclusive environment designed to foster connection and community across the sports landscape.

Class #5 will welcome coaches representing 17 sports across 27 different states. The 2025 Academy will provide insights on topics such as the Importance in Hydration in Sport fueled by Gatorade, Fit to Win: Foundations for Coaching presented by the Marines, Discovering Your Coaching Values, Leadership 6-S: Coaching with Empathy, and a Creating Champions Coaches Panel.

“When we develop coaches, we elevate the entire coaching profession. At the youth and high school levels, professional development is essential to building confident, capable leaders who are equipped to navigate challenges, elevate their teams, and thrive in their careers. This Academy is where coaches strengthen their skills, expand their networks, and ignite their passion for coaching,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH.

WeCOACH awarded over 50 scholarships to this year’s Academy participants thanks to generous funding from donors and partners. WeCOACH extends deep gratitude to Gatorade for serving as this year’s presenting partner and recognizes the following Academy partners whose support makes our programs possible: BAND, BSN SPORTS, Marines, U.S. Club Soccer and USA Weightlifting.

2025 Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy Class #5 Participants:
Mylene Amparo, Dishchiibikoh Community High School, Assistant Volleyball Coach
Alise Barrett, Coach/Official, Lacrosse & Field Hockey
Tanya Bautista, Woodland Soccer Club, Head Soccer Coach
Theresa Buhlman, Clayton Valley, Assistant Basketball Coach
Katie Catarius-Holmes, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, Head Softball Coach
Shaina Chafin, Team Takeover, Director of Athletics & Basketball
Ie-Chen Cheng, Harker School, Head Golf Coach
Katrina Conners, Beach FC – Virginia Beach, Head Soccer Coach
Meagan Cunningham, Smithfield Soccer Club, Head Soccer Coach
Sarah Davila, Freedom Weightlifting, Assistant Weightlifting Coach
Kimberly De Santiago, USAW, Weightlifting Coach
Dawn Dennis, Hayden High School, Head Cheer Coach
Arianna Dolock, Northbridge High School, Head Basketball Coach
Christine Dorman, Uncorked Performance Training LLC, Sport Consulting & Weightlifting
Sylvia Irene Elliott, California High School, Educator/Track & Field Coach
Chelsea Fessler, USSP Vyper Academy, Director of Soccer
Astrid García, Winder, Georgia
Kim Geiser, White Bear Lake Youth Association, Volunteer Assistant Ice Hockey Coach
Keitha Gilmore, Carver Military Academy, Head Cheer Coach
Letticia Gilmore, The Heritage Foundation, Director of Athletics & Football
Erin Hamilton, Coral Shores High School, Head Weightlifting Coach
Keisha Harley, City Schools of Decatur, Head Cheer Coach
Stacy Hayes, St. Cloud High School, Volunteer Assistant Weightlifting Coach
Nicole Hermon, Corliss High School, Head Volleyball Coach
Beth Hill, Heritage High School, Head Tennis Coach
Emily Isaacs, Pius X High School, Assistant Softball Coach
Shelley Izuno, Punahou School, Head Soccer Coach
Karen Johnson, Washington Township High School, Assistant XC/Track & Field Coach
Dianne Johnson, Family Biz Builder, Head Tennis Coach
Erica Jolly, Debbie’s Dance Company, Dance & Strength Coach
Mikaela Jopes, Niles West High School, Head Water Polo Coach
Gerlynn Joseph, Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), Head Soccer Coach
Brianna Kerley, Eagles View Academy and Wolfson School for Advanced Studies, Head Basketball Coach
Carmie Landeen, FC Tampa Rangers, Technical Soccer Director
Jeovana Lopez, Amon Carter Riverside Highschool, Head Basketball Coach
Latrina Lumpkin, Eagles View Academy, Assistant Basketball Coach
Rachel Mackey, Tacoma Schools, Head Cross Country Coach
Jennifer Mavis, Reno Apex SC, Director of Coaching Soccer
Janet McCormick, Mind Over Talent, Mental Performance Coach
Angela Moore, Young Women’s Leadership Academy, Head Cross Country Coach
Maria Ortiz, Young Women’s Leadership Academy-Fort Worth, Head Soccer Coach
Charice Paoli, Little Blackhawks, Glacier Ice Arena, Lead Supervisor & Head Coach
Eva Penny, Hillside High School, Head Swimming & Diving Coach
Vanita Phinisey, Golden Triangle Tennis, Head Tennis Coach
Morgan Powell, Women’s Sports Foundation
Tina Predojevic, 575 Volleyball PCVC, Director of Volleyball Operations
Audra Putman, Elkmont High School, Assistant Basketball Coach
Margo Rettig, Ralston Valley High School, Assistant Tennis Coach
Lisa Roberts, Clinton High School, Head Softball Coach
Simonette Sancho, King’s Schools, Head Golf Coach
Summer Sandoval, American River FC, Associate Head Soccer Coach
Katie Sims, Greenhills School, Head Cross Count
Alisha Sommer, Saint Helena High School, Head Basketball Coach
Jessica Southern, Lake Worth Christian School, Assistant Athletic Director Basketball
Brittany Steward, Victory Health
Susan Sullivan, Lake Road Elementary, Head Tennis Coach
Whin Sylla, Germantown Friends School, Associate Head Field Hockey Coach
Lisa Talcott, Crawfordsville Middle School, Head Weightlifting Coach
Haley Teofilo, Dragons FC, Volunteer Assistant Soccer Coach
Stephanee Velez Rivera, Orlando Christian Prep, Head Basketball Coach
Jessica Vue, Kickers FC, Assistant Soccer Coach
Jody Watty, Atascadero Youth Soccer, Head Soccer Coach
Corri Wilson, Community Rec Sports, Volunteer Assistant Soccer Coach
Courtney Wyrick, DCYSC, Assistant Soccer Coach
Kim Zollinger, Yucaipa HS, Redlands Blues SC, Co-Head Soccer Coach
Latoya Zubowicz-Hill, Fenwick High School, Head Cross Country/Track & Field Coach

To learn more about the Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy, fueled by Gatorade, please visit: https://wecoachsports.org/programs-events/hs-academy/.

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WeCOACH Announces Two Key Leadership Hires

July 25, 2025

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July 25, 2025 – WeCOACH proudly announces the addition of two dynamic leaders who will play pivotal roles in shaping the next era of impact for our organization: Erica Nelson-Flowers, Chief Operating Officer (COO) & Deputy Director of Leadership Programs, and Karen Weatherington (WCA #5), Associate Director of Leadership Programs.

Together, they bring more than 50 years of leadership across the collegiate, professional, and grassroots levels, and are deeply committed to building a more inclusive, empowered coaching community.

Erica Nelson-Flowers: COO & Deputy Director of Leadership Programs

A 20+ year veteran of the sports industry, Erica Nelson-Flowers has built a career at some of the nation’s most recognizable organizations. Most recently, she served as Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for USTA Texas, where she led statewide strategies to increase tennis access among historically underrepresented communities.

Prior to her time at USTA, Nelson-Flowers spent over a decade directing student-athlete development at the University of Arkansas and University of South Carolina, where she launched leadership academies, DEI initiatives, and career development programs. Her foundation in athlete support began early in her career with the NBA’s Player Development department and with NYC2012, the U.S. finalist bid for the 2012 Olympic Games, where she managed participation from over 2,000 Olympians and Paralympians.

“Like so many girls and women before me, my journey as an athlete was shaped by my coaches, so it’s an honor to bring my experience from the NBA, college athletics and most recently the USTA to WeCOACH. I believe heavily in the Mission of WeCOACH and am excited to contribute to its future success,” said Nelson-Flowers.

In 2023, Erica was named one of the “Top 50 Women Leaders in Austin” by Women We Admire, inducted into the Slippery Rock University (SRU) Sport Management Hall of Fame, and served as the SRU Graduate Commencement Speaker. She now serves on the SRU Foundation’s National Board of Directors.

“We are thrilled to welcome Erica to our team,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO. “Her experience and values align perfectly with our mission. Erica’s leadership will elevate our operations and strengthen our best-in-class leadership development programs for women coaches across all sports and levels.”

Karen Weatherington: Associate Director of Leadership Programs

Karen Weatherington brings 30+ years of championship-level experience as a Division I volleyball coach, most recently as the winningest head coach in UNC Charlotte program history. Her coaching impact extended beyond the court—demonstrated through academic excellence, DEI leadership, community engagement, and culture building.

Before Charlotte, Weatherington led Hampton University to its first-ever MEAC title and back-to- back NCAA Tournament berths. She was named Conference Coach of the Year at Charlotte, Hampton, and Kennesaw State, and developed multiple All-Conference and All-America honorees throughout her career.

Weatherington has served the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) in numerous roles, including Board Member, All-America Committee member, and Regional Advisory Chair. A proud graduate of the 2005 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #5, she has been a longtime WeCOACH champion.

“I am beyond excited to join the WeCOACH team. The organization has had such a positive impact on my career. WeCOACH is a premier organization that supports women through the changes and challenges of this ever-changing industry of sport. I am deeply appreciative to Vanessa and the staff for affording me this opportunity. As a WCA grad, I look forward to sharing my experience and knowledge to help women coaches achieve the goals of excellence and success,” said Weatherington.

“Karen is a force in every space she enters,” said Vanessa Fuchs. “She brings deep credibility, experience, and heart to everything she does—and we know our members will immediately benefit from her wisdom and energy.”

To learn more about Team WeCOACH, visit https://wecoachsports.org/about/staff/.

BAND Announced as Newest WeCOACH Mission Partner

July 23, 2025

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July 23, 2025 – WeCOACH is proud to announce BAND as our newest Mission Partner. BAND is a free all-in-one group communication app used by over 50 million people worldwide. As the official communication app for women coaches of WeCOACH, the BAND app will be utilized across all WeCOACH programs and events as an enhanced way for women coaches to connect, collaborate, communicate and share resources. This

three-year partnership reflects a shared commitment to equity in sports. BAND’s secure communication tools, combined with WeCOACH’s mission-driven programs, help women coaches thrive and build stronger communities around them.

“Our WeCOACH Community of over 18,000 women coaches has expressed they need more opportunities to engage with their peer coaches, so we are thrilled to welcome BAND as a means to meet their communication needs,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO. “We now offer a dozen different year-round leadership programs for our members and BAND will help us not only enhance communications but also streamline information sharing into one place.”

With all the essential features coaches need in one easy-to-use platform, BAND helps organize messages, schedules, and resources in a single, centralized hub — making it simple to reach team members effectively and efficiently. BAND is trusted by athletic directors, coaches, and essential support staff to manage and communicate with their teams on one platform through group messaging and video calls, notifications, calendars, RSVPs, photos and videos, polls, live streams, and more. BAND is available for free on iOS, Android, and online.

“We’re incredibly excited to partner with WeCOACH and support the vital mission of uplifting and empowering women coaches across the country. Through this partnership,

BAND will be integrated into WeCOACH’s core programs and events, providing a centralized, school-safe platform for communication and collaboration. We look forward to working closely with the WeCOACH team to help women coaches stay connected, organized, and supported—on and off the field,” said BAND U.S. General Manager, Sidney Chae.

Key Features for WeCOACH Members

Centralized Communication: Coaches can share updates, training materials, and weekly newsletters with team members and fellow coaches through one unified space.
Event Coordination: BAND’s calendar allows for RSVP tracking and seamless scheduling of workshops, mentoring sessions, and leadership events.
Community Engagement: Chat rooms and polls help coaches connect on specific topics like DEI training, coaching strategies, or session planning.
Secure Resource Sharing: Coaches can safely distribute leadership guides and development materials in organized folders.
Privacy-First Platform: With ad-free experiences for users under 18 and strict data policies, BAND ensures coaches can manage groups without exposing personal information like phone numbers.

By eliminating the need for scattered group texts or social media platforms, BAND enables coaches to streamline day-to-day operations while focusing more on mentoring, strategy, and growth.

To learn more about BAND, watch this video or visit about.band.us. To join our WeCOACH BAND, click here.

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ABOUT BAND
BAND is a leading group communication app that makes it easier for teams to stay on the same page. Leaders use BAND to manage and communicate with their teams on one platform through critical features like group messaging, notifications, calendars, RSVPs, pictures & videos, polls, live streams, and more. Over 400,000 group leaders are usin BAND throughout the states, including sports teams, school clubs, businesses, and friends and families. BAND is available for free on iOS, Android, and web. For more information, visit https://band.us.

Tucker Center Releases 13th Annual Report Card on Women in College Coaching

June 18, 2025

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June 18, 2025 – WeCOACH, in proud collaboration with the Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport, is excited to announce the release of the 2024-25 Women in College Coaching Report Card (WCCRC) — a powerful data-driven tool tracking the hiring trends and representation of women head coaches in NCAA Division-I athletics.

Now in its 13th year, this landmark report highlights the era of steady incline for women coaches — and also shows how much work remains to be done. Here’s what the data tells us for women head coaches:

✅ The percentage of women head coaches has increased for the 11th year in a row
✅ “Select Seven” NCAA D-I conferences are at 47.7% — up from 47.4%
✅ The Big Ten Conference leads all conferences at 58.0%
✅ 43 institutions still have zero women head coaches of color
✅ Only 7.5% of head coaches of women’s teams are women of color

This report continues to:
• Hold institutions accountable
• Empower coaches with data to make informed career decisions
• Drive systemic change toward a more equitable coaching landscape.
📥 Download the full report now: TuckerCenter.org.

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About The Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport
The Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport at the University of Minnesota is the first interdisciplinary research center leading a global effort to accelerate change for girls and women in sport.

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 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color. 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.

WeCOACH to Host 2025 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Programs

May 12, 2025

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May 12, 2025 – WeCOACH is thrilled to announce the upcoming 54th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA) and the 8th class of NCAA Academy 2.0, set to take place May 18-21, 2025, in Denver, Colorado. Hosted in collaboration with the NCAA, these impactful Academies offer multi-day transformational experiences focused on leadership development and personal growth for women coaches from all sports and collegiate levels, including both two-year and four-year institutions.

This year, over 100 women coaches will gather in Denver, with 85 coaches participating in the NCAA WCA and 18 advancing through the NCAA Academy 2.0 program. These women represent 24 different sports, including several NCAA emerging sports, and come from a diverse collection of institutions across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, as well as the NAIA, 3C2A, NJCAA, and NWAC.

“The NCAA is proud to continue its partnership with WeCOACH to host the 2025 NCAA Women Coaches Academy and NCAA Academy 2.0,” said DeeDee Merritt, NCAA Managing Director of Leadership Development. “The NCAA remains committed to educating and empowering student-athletes, coaches, and athletics administrators through transformative experiences that foster effective leadership, promote inclusive excellence, and strengthen the college sports landscape. These academies align seamlessly with our mission and have consistently delivered meaningful outcomes in the support, advancement, and retention of women coaches in collegiate athletics. WeCOACH continues to be an invaluable partner in
providing development and community for women coaches. Through collaborations like this, we are able to expand our reach and deepen our impact.””

“A highlight of this year’s Academies will be the presentation of the 2024-25 Lifetime Achievement Awards, presented by Jostens, recognizing ﬁve outstanding women coaches for their enduring impact on the profession. Attendees will also gain insights and inspiration during a keynote conversation with the honorees.

“The Academy experience is nothing short of transformational,” said Vanessa Fuchs, CEO of WeCOACH. “Our participants leave feeling renewed and equipped with tools, strategies, and a powerful sisterhood of support. Data shows our graduates remain in the coaching profession at rates well above the national average—and that’s the kind of impact we aim to scale. Thanks to our generous donors, we’re proud to have awarded more than $39,000 in scholarship funding for Denver participants to expand access and support participation.”

Since its inception, more than 2,300 coaches have graduated from the NCAA WCA. The program centers on holistic leadership development, providing women coaches with the skills, conﬁdence, and community to elevate their effectiveness both personally and professionally.

Academy 2.0, an advanced program exclusively for WCA alumnae, offers a deeper dive into leadership and professional growth in a highly interactive, small-group setting.

WeCOACH extends deep gratitude to the NCAA for its longstanding support. WeCOACH also wants to extend thanks to this year’s generous Academy Partners whose support makes these programs possible: Gatorade, Hudl, Marines, Simple Modern, Jostens, Alex Morgan Foundation, Athlete Assessments, Bakline, Betsy Butterick – the Coaches’ Coach, BSN SPORTS, Equitable Advisors – Latrice Smith, Legends of the Ball, Natasha Watley Foundation, NOX, Return on Inclusion, The Sports Bra Project, This One Media, and Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport.

Several conferences and sport associations also stepped up to support our Academies as sponsors: Atlantic 10 Conference, Big Ten Conference, College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW), Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC), Horizon League, Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA), Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association (NCATA), National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC), Pac-12 Conference, Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC), Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), and Sunshine State Conference (SSC).

May 19-21 NCAA Women Coaches Academy Class #54 Participants:
Claire Abele | Butte College – Head Coach, Soccer
Devan Acosta | Hanover College – Head Coach, Golf
Lindsay Allman | Florida State University – Associate Head Coach, Volleyball
Lauryn Andrew | Concordia University-Irvine – Graduate Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Miranda Armstrong | Pomona-Pitzer Colleges – Associate Head Coach, Soccer
Sloane Baumgartner | Elmhurst University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Emily Bitka | Daemen University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Jenn Blomme | Whitman College – Head Coach, Swimming
Eileen Bringman | Cornell University – Associate Head Coach, Swimming & Diving
Laura Broderick | Yale University – Assistant Coach, Cross Country, Track & Field
Jasmine Brown | Oberlin College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Lynnzee Brown | Pennsylvania State University – Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Daiysa Burrell | Norfolk State University – Assistant Coach, XC, Track & Field
Kendra Bush | Rochester Institute of Technology – Assistant Coach, XC, Track & Field
Karen Byers | Seattle Paciﬁc University – Head Coach, Basketball
Jasmine Chambers | South Carolina State University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Erin Chrissobolis | Ohio Northern University – Assistant Coach, Swimming & Diving
Adeline Chung-Feder | Wagner College – Assistant Coach, Fencing
Shannon Coughlin | UW Green Bay – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Alexandria Courtney | Minot State University – Head Coach, Volleyball
Vinsetta Covington | Kentucky State University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Chloe Curtis | Loyola Marymount University – Head Coach, XC, Track & Field
Jeanne Czipri | Central College (Iowa) – Head Coach, Volleyball
Jessica Darmelio | Carmel High School – Head Coach, Basketball
Arla Davis | McDaniel College – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Melissa DeVore | Coker University – Head Coach, Basketball
Amy Donovan | University of Alaska Fairbanks – Head Coach, Basketball
Kaycie Dunkerley | Lewis & Clark College – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Maisie Elston | Mount St. Joseph University – Head Coach, Basketball
Catherine Ely | Bryn Mawr College – Head Coach, Crew
Uloma Enyogasi | Lynn University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Alyxx Estrada | Regis University – Assistant Coach, Softball
Amanda Evans | New Mexico Highlands University – Head Coach, Soccer
Hillary Fitts | Hofstra University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Allison Fordyce | Susquehanna University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Marissa Fortuna | St. Lawrence University – Graduate Assistant Coach, Soccer
Lindsey Garcia | Occidental College – Head Coach, Water Polo
Mahogany Green | Hamilton College – Head Coach, Basketball
Katie Guns | St. Norbert College – Head Coach, Soccer
Elyssa Hawkins | Biola University – Assistant Coach, Water Polo
Madison Heck | Virginia Wesleyan University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Shirlynn Hight | Talladega College – Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Gabrielle Holko | Susquehanna University – Head Coach, Basketball
Katie Horton | Florida State University – Director of Operations, Beach Volleyball
Cornysia Island | University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Kellis Johnson | Dominican University – Assistant Coach, Soccer
Jenna Kalwa | University of Saint Joseph – Head Coach, Soccer
Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn | University of Michigan – Assistant Coach, Gymnastics
Brehan Kelley | PennWest Clarion – Head Coach, Swimming
Abigail Kemble | Eastern University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Nina Klein | Quinnipiac University – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Megan Kronschnabel | Claremont Mudd Scripps – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Courtney Kust | Hope College – Associate Head Coach, Basketball
Moneshia McKenney | Clemson University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Erica Metz | Millersville University – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Baylee Mires | University of Louisville – Assistant Coach, XC, Track & Field
Brittney Morris | St. Mary’s College of Maryland – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Raina Nolan | Emmanuel University – Head Coach, Acrobatics & Tumbling
Haley Overstreet | Sewanee, The University of the South – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Sara Pasour | University of North Carolina at Pembroke – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Kate Pearson | Rowan University – Head Coach, Basketball
Ana Pego | Quinnipiac University – Assistant Coach, Volleyball
Barbara Perkins | University of Denver – Head Coach, Triathlon
Megan Rabenberg | Loyola University Maryland – Assistant Coach, Rowing
Madeline Reed | Kutztown University – Assistant Coach, Soccer
Erin Reeves | Colby College – Head Coach, Tennis
Kaitlyn Reny | University of Redlands – Assistant Coach, Swimming & Diving
Kelly Rider | Curry College – Head Coach, Hockey
Toccara Ross | Central Michigan University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Erin Schneidtmiller | University of Louisville – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Katelyn Sherman | Ave Maria University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Janelle Silver-Martin | Florida Gulf Coast University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Katie Smith | Xavier University – Head Coach, Soccer
Claire Sporer | Michigan State University – Strength Coach, Basketball
Hannah Tepper | Trinity College – Assistant Coach, Field Hockey
Arli Tilves | Carnegie Mellon University – Assistant Coach, Swimming
Julieta Toledo | The Ohio State University – Assistant Coach, Fencing
ArieonTrinity | Agnes Scott College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Melissa Valenzuela | Illinois Wesleyan University – Head Coach, Flag Football
Amy Vaughan | Nova Southeastern University – Head Coach, Soccer
Jae-Lyn Visscher | University of South Florida – Assistant Coach, Beach Volleyball
Lauren Voigt | The College of Wooster – Head Coach, Field Hockey
Janice Washington | Lincoln University – Head Coach, Basketball
Shannon Witzel | Spalding University – Head Coach, Lacrosse
Doshia Woods | University of Denver – Head Coach, Basketball

May 18-20 NCAA Academy 2.0 Class #8 Participants:
Lynn Anderson | Southern Illinois University Edwardsville – Assistant Coach, Softball
Coretta Brown | Eastern Kentucky University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Sandra Bullock | Southwestern Oregon Community College – Head Coach, Swimming
Mercede Daugherty | Hope College – Assistant Coach, Softball
Kristen Dowling | Whittier College – Head Coach, Basketball
Brittany Duncan-Houghland | University of Dayton – Associate Head Coach, Softball
Verniece Graham | Albany State University – Head Coach, Volleyball
Mary Beth Gunn | University of the Paciﬁc – Head Coach, Tennis
Jaleesa Harper | The University of North Carolina at Pembroke – Head Coach, Volleyball
Alyssa Johnson | Case Western Reserve University – Head Coach, Soccer
Mary Johnston | Macalester College – Head Coach, Volleyball
Keanna Keys | Southeastern Louisiana University – Assistant Coach, Basketball
Amari Lawson | Benedict College – Head Coach, Softball
Sarah Leiby | University of Charleston – Head Coach, Soccer
Anna Moore | University of St. Thomas – Assistant Coach, Swimming & Diving
Ann Ninnemann | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point – Head Coach, Ice Hockey
Krista Rice | Oakland University – Head Coach, Volleyball
Jessica Scott | University of Minnesota – Assistant Coach, Ice Hockey

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

WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academy

WeCOACH-NCAA Academy 2.0

Academy Scholarships

Celebrating Women’s History Month: Empowering Women Coaches Through WeCOACH Memberships

March 31, 2025

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March 31, 2025 – As Women’s History Month comes to a close, WeCOACH proudly recognizes the organizations and conferences that have championed the advancement of women in coaching by providing WeCOACH memberships, resources, and access to our empowering community of over 18,000+ women coaches (see list below). Their commitment supports year- round professional growth opportunities, fosters leadership, and helps bridge the gender gap in coaching across all sports and levels.

Professional Sports Organizations:
National Football League (NFL)
National Hockey League Coaches’ Association (NHLCA)
Washington Spirit

Coaches & Sport Associations:
Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Association (IWLCA)
National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association (NCATA)
US Club Soccer
USTA Missouri Valley USTA Southern USTA Texas

NCAA Division I Conferences:
Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC)
Big 12 Conference
BIG EAST Conference
Big Ten Conference
Ivy League
Northeast Conference (NEC)
Pac-12 Conference
Patriot League
Southern Conference (SoCon)
Summit League

NCAA Division II Conferences:
California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA)
Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC)
Conference Carolinas
East Coast Conference (ECC)
Great American Conference (GAC)
Lone Star Conference (LSC)
Mountain East Conference (MEC)
Northeast-10 Conference (NE-10)
The PacWest Conference
Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC)
Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)
South Atlantic Conference (SAC)|
Sunshine State Conference (SSC)

NCAA Division III Conferences:
College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW)
Collegiate Conference of the South (CCS)
Conference of New England (CNE)
Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC)
Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC)
Liberty League
Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA)
Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC)
New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC)
New England Women’s & Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC)
Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC)
North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC)
Northwest Conference (NWC)
Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC)
Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC)
Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC)
Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC)
State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC)
United East Conference
University Athletic Association (UAA)

NAIA Conferences:
Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC)

Community College Associations:
California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A)
Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC)

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Why Investing in Women Coaches Matters

Increased Representation – Women coaches inspire future generations of female athletes.

Diverse Leadership – More perspectives enrich decision-making in sports.

Stronger Athlete Development – Representation fosters confidence and growth in athletes.

Equity in Sports – Addressing the gender gap in coaching is crucial for the future of sports leadership.

WeCOACH celebrates the strides made and looks ahead to continue the progress. We encourage more organizations to invest in women coaches and create lasting change in sports leadership. To learn more about WeCOACH group memberships, email memberships@wecoachsports.org.

Together, we are building a stronger, more equitable future in coaching.

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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.

WeCOACH Teams Up with Gatorade Fieldhouse for New Partnership

March 21, 2025

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March 21, 2025 – WeCOACH is excited to announce Gatorade, the world’s global leader in sports fuel, as our newest Champion Partner. Through this partnership, WeCOACH members will have opportunities to fuel their career and build their network through the new Gatorade Fieldhouse, the first digital forum built for and by sports performance professionals. Gatorade will also be featured as the official sponsor of the Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy.

“On behalf of our WeCOACH Community, we are thrilled to expand our partnership with Gatorade to provide enhanced resources for our women coaches,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO. “As the largest nonprofit supporting women coaches across all sports and levels, this partnership will empower our expanding network of sports coaches, strength & conditioning coaches, athletic trainers, nutrition professionals and athletic administrators to build cross-discipline connections that will benefit themselves, as well as the student-athletes they lead.”

“Gatorade is proud to continue our partnership with WeCOACH,” said Molly Matson, Marketing Director, Gatorade. “As we continue to grow the first multidisciplinary community of sports practitioners with Gatorade Performance Partner and support practitioners in their work, WeCOACH is an important partner that allows us to expand our audience. WeCOACH has done tremendous work to empower women in coaching, and we are eager to continue to support their efforts with our expertise in sports science and our ever-growing network of sports practitioners.”

New this year, Gatorade will be providing women coaches in three high school districts with 12- month WeCOACH memberships. Additional impact generated through this partnership includes Gatorade’s involvement at an upcoming WeCOACH Regional Workshop and serving as sponsor of an upcoming Video Chat.

To learn more about Gatorade Fieldhouse, visit https://fieldhouse.gatorade.com and join the conversation today.

ABOUT GATORADE
The Gatorade Company, a division of PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP), meets the needs of consumers who participate in sports and fitness, through brands that include Gatorade, Propel, Muscle Milk and Evolve. The solutions they provide are driven by a deep understanding of the unique occasions and needs across athletic activity. Gatorade, their marquee brand, is underpinned by a 56-year history of studying the best athletes in the world, and sports nutrition research by the Gatorade Sport Science Institute, allowing it to provide scientifically formulated products that meet athletes’ needs both on and off the field. For more information and a full list of products, please visit www.gatorade.com.

ABOUT GATORADE FIELDHOUSE
The Gatorade Fieldhouse is the first digital forum designed for sports practitioners to connect, learn and grow across professions. It offers the latest in sports science, a way to network with peers and the chance to explore valuable resources. The Gatorade Fieldhouse is a space to showcase and share experiences across the sports world through discussion forums and clubs for special-interest groups. It is free, easy to join and built with the needs of sports practitioners in mind. The Gatorade Fieldhouse is where expertise meets opportunity. Members can log in with their Gatorade Performance Partner credentials or create an account today on the Gatorade Fieldhouse.

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 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color. 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-athletesthey lead. If she can see her, she can be her. For more information visit MOVE the NUMBERS.

Marines Celebrate 250th Birthday with Expanded WeCOACH Mission Partnership

March 19, 2025

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March 19, 2025 – As part of its year-long celebration commemorating 250 years of winning our nation’s battles, the United States Marine Corps (USMC) has expanded its relationship with WeCOACH as a Mission Partner. Our 2025 partnership 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 2025 USMC Educators and Coaches Workshops.

This collaborative partnership includes Marine presence and support across all WeCOACH programs and events. Marines will conduct morning workouts during both of the 2025 WeCOACH-NCAA Academy programs (May 2025 in Denver and November 2025 in Indianapolis) as well as facilitate a leadership session during our 2025 Youth & High School Women Coaches Academy. New this year, Marine representatives will have the opportunity to be active participants in our Academy classes.

“The United States Marine Corps takes pride in continuing our partnership with WeCOACH and their community of coaches,” said Lt. Col. Tony Semelroth, National Director of Marketing and Communication, Marine Corps Recruiting Command. “We are honored to support those who are fostering the fighting spirit within their organizations, programs, and communities. This generation of athletes seek honest and sound advice from their coaches regarding their future and we want to ensure that coaches have the best information available to present the Marine Corps as a positive opportunity.”

Having recently released its new ‘Made for This’ campaign, 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 USMC Educators and 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.

“We are excited to celebrate 250 years of impact with the Marines through our partnership. 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 as a Mission 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 2025 USMC Educators and 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 the United States Marine Corps, click here.

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ABOUT THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
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.

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.

WeCOACH Announces 2024-25 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

February 5, 2025

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February 5, 2025 – On National Girls & Women in Sports Day, WeCOACH is proud to announce five recipients of the 2024-25 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 class boasts over 200 years of coaching experience (and counting), over 5,000 wins, and over 50 national & state championships.

This year’s recipients include Coach Jan Hutchinson, Bloomsburg University Head Field Hockey & Softball Coach (retired); Coach Carmen Jackson, Miami Northwestern Senior High School Head Track & Field Coach; Dr. Ann Lebedeff, Pomona-Pitzer Colleges Emerita Professor of Physical Education & Head Tennis Coach (retired); Coach Pat Summitt, University of Tennessee Head Women’s Basketball Coach (posthumous); and Coach Tara VanDerveer, Stanford University Head Women’s Basketball Coach (retired).

“The Lifetime Achievement Award honors those who have not only excelled in their field but have also paved the way for future generations of leaders. This year’s winners are true pioneers—individuals whose advocacy for women in coaching has broken barriers, records and created lasting change. Their unwavering dedication to excellence, empowerment, and inclusion is a beacon of inspiration. We are proud to celebrate their extraordinary contributions and the legacy they continue to build. 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, Dr. Nikki Franke, Carol Hutchins, Jodi Manore, Missy Foote, Dr. Christine Grant, Bev Kearney, C. Vivian Stringer and Sister Lynn Winsor. The 2024-25 honorees will receive their custom-designed awards by Jostens on May 19 in Denver, Colorado in conjunction with the WeCOACH-NCAA Women Coaches Academies. To learn more about the WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Awards presented by Jostens, click here.

About Coach Jan Hutchinson
A true NCAA coaching legend, Jan Hutchinson spent 32 ½ years as the head coach of field hockey and softball at Bloomsburg University where she won an astonishing 17 total National Championships. As head field hockey coach, she led the program to 16 National Championships and nine runner-up finishes. She won 16 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Field Hockey Championships and was eight-time conference runner-up. Hutchinson compiled a field hockey record of 591-75-20 and is the NCAA Division II all-time leader in career wins. As head softball coach, she is the all-time leader in Division II career wins with a record of 1,215-288-2 and made an NCAA-record 28 consecutive trips to the NCAA Division II Softball Championships (31 including AIAW and NCAA Division III). Bloomsburg won the 1982 AIAW National Championship, twice finished as NCAA Division II National runner-up and had six 3rd place showings. Bloomsburg also won 15 PSAC Softball Championships. Hutchinson is the winningest woman college coach in any division with 1,806 combined wins in field hockey and softball. She was the field hockey Division II National Coach of the Year seven times and has been honored with induction into both the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Halls of Fame and was awarded the C. Vivian Stringer Award from the United States Sports Academy in 2006. During her impressive legacy, every class of student-athletes she recruited in both sports played in the national tournament at least once and most competed two or more times. Read more about Coach Hutchinson here.

About Coach Carmen Jackson
Coach Carmen Jackson has set the example by leading her alma mater where she won the first girls varsity state championship in the state of Florida in Track and Field in 1975. Her coaching career began in 1980, when she became an assistant coach under her high school coach. In 1991-92, she became the head girl’s track and field coach at Miami Northwestern Senior High School. She has won an incredible 19 State Championships including 11 consecutive titles from 2009-2019 (1999, 2001, 2005-2007, 2009-2019, 2021-2023),18 Regional Titles, 29 District Titles, and 17 GMAC Conference Titles. Coach Jackson believes high school coaching may be the most special and important profession anyone can choose, using sport as a vehicle to enrich the lives and futures of the athletes should be our ultimate goal. She was named Florida Interscholastic Athletic Association Coach of the year four times, Florida Dairy Farmers Coach of the Year 10 times, Florida Athletic Coaches Association Coach of the Year (2001-2005), and Miami Herald Coach of the Year (2001), Miami Herald Track Coach of the Year 19 times, National High School Athletic Association Coach of the Year Regional winner (2001, 2010), National High School Athletic Association Coach of the Year (2014-15), U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) 2015 National Coach of the Year, 2015 Bob Hayes Hall of Fame, 2016 Miami Northwestern Senior High School Hall of Fame, 2018 Miami Jackson High School Hall of Fame, 2022 Jackson State University Hall of Fame and the 2023 FHSAA Hall of Fame. Read more about Coach Jackson here.

About Dr. Ann Lebedeff
Dr. Ann Lebedeff is a nationally recognized collegiate tennis coach and teacher. Her coaching career began at the University of Arizona from 1977-1984, where she was honored as the Western Collegiate Coach of the Year in 1985. Professor Lebedeff coached both the men’s and women’s programs at Cal Poly Pomona from 1989-1998, winning national titles with both programs. After earning her doctorate in Physical Education from USC, in 1998 Dr. Lebedeff became Professor and Head Women’s Tennis Coach at Pomona-Pitzer Colleges. The Sagehens reached the NCAA Division III Quarterfinals seven times under Lebedeff (2001-03, 2007-10), including a semifinals appearance in 2008. In 2000 her doubles team won the NCAA Division III Doubles Championship, while in 2008, Siobhan Finicane won the NCAA Division III Singles Championship. Dr. Lebedeff maintains five national Wilson ITA Coach of the Year Awards, and Wilson ITA Coach of the Decade (1990s) for Division II Women’s tennis. The International Tennis Hall of Fame honored her in 1999 with the Tennis Educational Merit Award. In that same year, Dr. Lebedeff was presented with the ITA Rolex Meritorious Service Award. In 2019, she was inducted into the ITA Women’s Collegiate Tennis Hall of Fame. Her legacy was set in stone in 2018 when her friend, tennis legend, and sports icon, Billie Jean King, endowed the ITA Ann Lebedeff Leadership Award, honoring recent college tennis graduates who demonstrate a passion and perseverance towards long-term goals, a commitment to social justice and equality, and push others to be leaders. Read more about Dr. Lebedeff here.

About Coach Pat Summitt
A coach whose accolades and legacy precede her, the legendary Coach Pat Summitt became the winningest coach in NCAA Division I basketball history with 1,098 career wins, a record she held at the time of her retirement in 2012. During her 38-year tenure leading the Lady Vol Basketball dynasty, she won eight NCAA Championships, five second-place finishes, as well as a combined 32 Southeastern Conference tournament and regular season championships. Tennessee made an unprecedented 31 consecutive appearances in the NCAA Tournament and boasted 14 Olympic Team members, 39 WNBA players, 21 WBCA/Kodak/State Farm All- Americans earning 36 honors, and 39 All-SEC players earning 82 recognitions. Along with the success on the court, Summitt’s student-athletes had tremendous productivity in the classroom. Coach Summitt held a 100 percent graduation rate for all Lady Vols who completed their eligibility at Tennessee. A total of 62 players mentored by Summitt in the UT program went on to basketball coaching or administrative positions. Her incredible body of work earned her Naismith Women’s Collegiate Coach of the Century for the 1900s, National Coach of the Year honors seven times, SEC coach of the year eight times, along with induction into numerous halls of fame. Following her 2011 diagnosis of early-onset dementia, Alzheimer’s type, she devoted her time to raising awareness worldwide about Alzheimer’s disease through the Pat Summitt Foundation. The valor Summitt demonstrated while facing her toughest foe earned her even greater admiration than she had attained as a hall of fame coach. President Barack Obama honored her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom and she received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award. As a coach, mentor, mother-figure, ambassador, trailblazer and role model, Pat Summitt was a living torchbearer. Hers is a light that also cannot be extinguished. Read more about Coach Summitt here.

About Coach Tara VanDerveer
The second-winningest coach in NCAA basketball history, Tara VanDerveer cemented herself as one of the top coaches in the sport, both collegiately and internationally, and is a member of both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2011) and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2002). In her 38 storied seasons leading the Stanford Cardinal, her teams brought back to The Farm three NCAA National Championships (1990, 1992, 2021). An ambassador for both Stanford University and the sport of college basketball, VanDerveer enjoyed an unprecedented level of success through an energetic and positive approach to the game. A five-time national coach of the year and 18-time Pac-12 Coach of the Year, VanDerveer, who prior to coming to Stanford served as head coach for a combined seven seasons at Idaho (1978-80) and Ohio State (1980-85), accumulated an impressive 1,216-271 (.818) record in her 45 years as a collegiate head coach, and a 1,064-220 (.829) record at Stanford. VanDerveer guided her players to two Wade Trophy Player of the Year honors, two Naismith Player of the Year honors, a WBCA Defensive Player of the Year and Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, 38 first-team All-America honors (WBCA and Associated Press), 20 Pac-12 Player of the Year awards, 88 first team All-Pac-12 selections, nearly 40 appointments to USA Basketball teams and 34 went on to play in the WNBA. VanDerveer won her 1,000th career game on Feb. 3, 2017, passed Pat Summitt (1,098) to become the then-winningest coach in women’s college basketball history on Dec. 15, 2020, and surpassed Mike Krzyzewski (1,202) to become the then-winningest coach in NCAA basketball history on Jan. 21, 2024. Coach VanDerveer is a long-time supporter of WeCOACH and authored a chapter in the 2022 book, Winning Ways of Women Coaches. Read more about Coach VanDerveer here.

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ABOUT JOSTENS
Jostens, a trusted partner within the academic and achievement space, provides products and services that help its customers celebrate meaningful milestones. The company’s product assortment includes yearbooks, publications, custom-crafted jewelry and consumer goods that serve the K-12, collegiate and professional sports markets. Jostens was founded in 1897 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn.

Visit jostens.com for more information.

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. To view past recipients, or to learn more about the WeCOACH Lifetime Achievement Awards presented by Jostens, click here.

WeCOACH & NHL COACHES’ ASSOCIATION UNITE IN A NEW COLLABORATION

January 14, 2025

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January 14, 2025 – WeCOACH is excited to announce a new collaboration with the NHL Coaches’ Association (NHLCA) that will advance efforts to support the development of female hockey coaches and diversify the current pool of hockey coaches. The collaboration includes providing WeCOACH memberships to all members of the NHLCA Female Coaches Program.
On International Women’s Day 2020, the NHLCA proudly announced the launch of the NHLCA Female Coaches Program, a new initiative to help support the development of female hockey coaches across all levels of the game. Now in its fifth season, the Program supports over 100 women in several areas including skills development, leadership strategies, communication tactics, networking, and career advancement opportunities.

“Female coaches are a critical element to supporting the growth of hockey as they have a tremendous influence on an athlete’s future in the sport,” said Lindsay Pennal, Executive Director of the NHLCA. “Since the launch of the NHLCA Female Coaches Program, we’ve been fortunate to support some incredible women in achieving their career goals. As we work together to continue to foster diversity, we’re proud to offer WeCOACH’s resources to our members to complement our current programming.”

The hockey community recently celebrated Jessica Campbell making history as the first full-time Assistant Coach in the NHL when she stepped behind the bench with the Seattle Kraken in October 2024. Coach Campbell has been a member of the NHLCA Female Coaches Program since 2021 and continues to be a valuable mentor. To build upon this progress, NHLCA program members will have access to the WeCOACH platform which includes 13 different year-round professional growth and leadership development programs.

“On behalf of our WeCOACH Community, we are thrilled to welcome the NHLCA, and we look forward to the transformational impact created through this partnership,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO. “The NHLCA has been a global leader with their efforts to diversify the sport of hockey and grow the number of women coaching at every level of the sport. To have women coaches as role models is critical to getting and keeping young girls in sport.”

To learn more about the NHLCA and all WeCOACH Partners, visit: https://www.wecoachsports.org/get- involved/wecoach-partners.

ABOUT THE NHLCA
The NHL Coaches’ Association is the professional organization that provides support and assistance to the head, assistant, goaltending, and video coaches of the 32 teams in the National Hockey League. One of the NHLCA’s primary objectives is to help develop all hockey coaches from the youth level up to the highest levels of hockey as we strongly believe that coaches are important leaders within their communities, serving as role models at every level of the game.

Together, we are committed to supporting all coaches in their initiatives of guiding, motivating, and inspiring players of all ages. To learn more about the NHLCA Female Coaches Program, visit www.nhlcoaches.com/female-coaches-program.

New WeCOACH Board Leadership Announced; Walker Begins Term as Board President

January 8, 2025

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January 08, 2025 – The WeCOACH Board of Directors is proud to announce new leadership for the 2025 calendar year.

Ann Walker, longtime college athletic administrator and coach of over 30 years (now semi-retired), assumed the role of Board President, effective January 1. Walker is also a former WeCOACH staff member, having served as Director of Events and Communications from 2016- 2019. Dr. Missy Price, Vice President of Education & Development, US Club Soccer (WCA #35 & Academy 2.0 #1) began her term as President-Elect, and Tiffany Tucker, Director of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation at University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) transitioned to Past President. These leadership positions are one-year progressive terms.

“I am both pleased and honored to serve as the 2025 President of the Board. WeCOACH is dear to me, having worked for the organization in the past, and I believe that it serves such a purpose in helping women throughout the coaching profession. My goal is to provide guidance, vision, and inspiration, and I look forward to collaborating with Vanessa and the rest of the Board to elevate WeCOACH,” said Ann Walker.

“As we usher in a new era of leadership with our incoming Board President and President-Elect, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Their vision, dedication, and experience will guide us through another year of growth and transformation. Together, we will continue to Move the Numbers to create lasting impact for our organization and the community of coaches we serve,” said Vanessa Fuchs, WeCOACH CEO.

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 41% across all three NCAA Divisions, with only 7% women head coaches of color. 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.