ATLANTA – The Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) announced on Feb. 6 its 12th annual WBCA “So You Want To Be A Coach” program. Elon women’s basketball senior Kesley Harris was one of 50 current players selected to participate in the three-day workshop held April 4 – 6 in conjunction with the WBCA National Convention in Nashville.
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, 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.
Harris was originally told about the program from head coach Charlotte Smith. The guard from Gastonia, N.C., has always had an interest in coaching and wanted learn more about what it takes to coach at the next level.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to attend and complete a program that is nationally recognized and has participants from every level,” said Harris. “It gives me the opportunity to meet and interact with other coaches, as well as participate in the Final Four weekend events! The program can provide a valuable stepping stone towards my post-graduate plans.”
“So” participants will learn about recruiting, the administrative side of coaching, how to get hired, skill development, the importance of knowing the rules and how to balance work and life.
Qualified candidates must have exhausted their final year of basketball eligibility at a four-year institution or have graduated within the past year. In addition, the candidate’s head coach must be an active WBCA member and nominate them. Each participant is selected based on her academics, contributions to women’s basketball on and off the court, professional resume and a written recommendation from her head coach.