JCSU Student-Athlete Chosen by Women's Basketball Coaches Association for Minority Program

Diary: Annie S. DeRoy

On April 1, 2004 I went to New Orleans to attend the "So You Want to be a Coach" seminar. This was the second year that the WBCA has thrown this event during the Women’s Final Four. There were about 50 perspective coaches that attended the seminar. In the many meetings with the coaches and athletic leaders we were able to experience something very special. The amount of information that the speakers gave to us was very valuable. Some of the topics discussed were how to be a good assistant, tips on getting hired, creating a good defense or offense and recruiting. As an aspiring Head Coach , I had a very encouraging experience.

Annie DeRoy

The question that was asked of the participants during the meetings was "Why do you want to be a coach?” The responses from the speakers showed how dear they hold the profession of coaching to their heart.

The interaction with various coaches such as Vivian Stringer, Wendy Larry, Cathy Parson, David "Rusty" Panton and Lavonda Wagner, has had a very impressionable impact on my life and my dream of one day becoming a Head Coach. One reason for this, was that I got a chance to see African-American people, in such an unstable career as coaching can be at times, speaking out about how much they love the experience of coaching and could not see themselves doing anything else. It was also special seeing women in a field that is being taking over by males, holding their ground and making a much needed impact in the coaching profession.

The coaches spoke about their own experiences and how they came into the field of coaching. Although many of their stories were different, they all gave a much-needed message of perseverance. I was especially excited to hear Coach Jim Louis speak because he was my first collegiate coach. I was able to understand what Coach Louis was saying from a lecture point of view and having the experience through his system.

I am so appreciative for being able to experience the "So You Want to be a Coach" seminar. If I had never participated in this seminar, I may have never gotten the chance to have this special interaction with so many famous coaches.