Story courtesy of Colorado College Sports Information
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. -- Korbyn Ukasick plays her final home game as a member of the Colorado College women's basketball team on Sunday, but her career in basketball is just beginning.
The daughter of a high school coach, Ukasick received an invitation to participate in the Women's Basketball Coaches Association's (WBCA) 15th annual "So You Want To Be A Coach" program, which will be held March 29-31 in conjunction with the WBCA National Convention in Dallas.
"We continue to invest in young, aspiring coaches through our 'So You Want To Be A Coach' program," said WBCA Executive Director Danielle Donehew. "Each year, the WBCA family reinforces our support for this important entry-level program. We have high expectations for these graduating student-athletes and the future contributions they will make to the game of women's basketball."
Ukasick is one of only 61 women's basketball players nationwide, only 13 of which were from Division III programs, to be selected for the prestigious program. CC's tri-captain will learn from coaches and administrators, and take advantage of networking opportunities deigned to assist participants in securing a coaching position.
"I've been on the selection committee for the award," head coach Katherine Menendez said. "Korbyn's application was very thorough and very detailed. She wanted to make sure it was an accurate depiction of herself.
"As a Division III student-athlete, Korbyn already has an appreciation and insight into what goes on behind the scenes. Not everything is given to you. You have to work for things and earn your gear, and be a credit to your sport within your college community."
Ukasick's dedication to her team and the game was clearly evident early in the 2016-17 season when she was sidelined for nine games.
Instead of from the retreating to rehabilitate her injury by herself, Ukasick became an unofficial student coach and provide valuable leadership for a squad that has 13 underclassmen on its 17-player roster.
"Korbyn's basketball mind is incredible," Menendez said. "She's a student of the game and recognizes things even veteran coaches may miss. She's truly a student of the game."
While it was difficult not being on the court with her teammates, seeing the game from a different perspective provide invaluable experience as she pursues a career in coaching.
In addition to providing input during games, Ukasick was given other behind the scene responsibilities such as running practices, developing game plans and helping plan and run a children's clinic.
That experience will serve Ukasick well as she pursues a graduate assistant position.
"Korbyn is a very hard worker," Menendez says. "In an entry-level position, she will have the ability to see the big picture and take care of the small details, which will make her valuable to a staff at any level.
"She does things for the right reasons, she does them wholeheartedly and she will be a credit to our profession. I would hire her in a minute.
