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On Thursday, September 14th, the fifth Soldiers To Sidelines Basketball Certification Seminar concluded with an inspirational keynote address by National Champion Coach Tubby Smith.  Coach Smith, whose father served and was injured in WW2, talked about his upbringing and the work he did at the Maryland Navy Yard.

“Everyone can benefit from the enormous amount of positive energy of this program. Some think they are losing their “why,” and this brings it back to life in a whole new meaningful way.” Jeromy Schoell

The seminar was made possible thanks in part to the incredible support of The Wounded Warrior Project!

“This was transformative in so many ways. I coach because I love kids and enjoy watching them grow as individuals. Being 100% disabled and struggling to find my new identity had been hard. This really put what I know I can offer into a better perspective.” Greg Revelle

Both 2023 Division 1 Basketball National Champion programs were represented by their Associate Head Coaches.  UConn’s Kimani Young broke down their famous Offensive Skill Work and LSU’s Bob Starkey discussed Defensive Philosophy.

ESPN’s Chris Spatola (a member of the 2010 Duke National Championship Coaching Staff) led the seminar off perfectly, discussing the nuances of the coaching profession.  Spatola made his own transition from his Army career to collegiate coaching.

Five soldier coaches shared their journey from their military careers into coaching, including East Tennessee State Assistant Coach, Jackie Alexander and South Oregon Head Coach Matt Zosel.

“I am thankful for every moment spent listening to the coaches. I feel I couldn’t be more blessed to have learned so much. This program has me in awe of how polished and informative it is, and I always tell other vets about it. I feel like being a Wounded Warrior Alumni this opened the door for learning, and when I saw the presentation for WWP, I was in awe. The coaches who were vets or had family that served touched me.” Trayviel Limehouse

Trailblazing coach Edniesha Curry, a part of the NBA Coach Development Program, laid out the foundation for individual skill development.

One of the main themes of the seminar was Offensive Team Development utilizing a position-less offensive scheme.  GW Head Coach Chris Caputo started the teaching of the 5-out offense, and Ohio State Assistant Coach Wes Brooks continued it.

“Reenergized my sense of purpose with regards to coaching.” Fabian Martinez

The State of Texas came up big at this seminar.  Delivering the silent skills, the things that make teams win, were Texas A&M Men’s Head Coach Buzz Williams and University of Texas WBB Head Coach Vic Schaefer, son of a Colonel, who both gave passionate keynote addresses.

All in all, 200 coaches registered, and 60+ attended our best attended Basketball Seminar to date.

Congratulations to our newest members of the Tribe!