Uncommon Sports Group seeks to develop Christ-centered future leaders of the college and pro sport industry. A large part of how USG develops future leaders of sport is by providing funding for its members to attend conferences, conventions, and events that develop them spiritually and professionally. Earlier this month, USG attended the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Convention in Dallas, TX, with a group of ten of its members. The WBCA Convention offers aspiring and present women's college basketball coaches the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the game, develop their skills as coaches, and network with coaches from across the country.
Two of our attendees from the trip were Mallory Odell, who is presently a graduate assistant with Valdosta State women's basketball, and Ian Keiderling, who is presently a graduate assistant with Grand View University women's basketball. Below are testimonies from Mallory and Ian on their experience at the WBCA Convention:
"My time in Dallas at the 2023 WBCA Convention and Final Four was amazing. It was great to have the opportunity to learn, network, and grow in both basketball and faith. I am grateful to Uncommon Sports Group for providing resources that allowed me to attend. I had the privilege of staying with other USG members in Dallas. This was a unique opportunity to get to know them better, share our ideas and experiences about coaching and the sports industry, and enjoy fellowship in the mornings and downtime. One of the highlights of my time there was having an evening of reflection before we all departed from the convention. It was great conversation and allowed each of us to reflect and dive deeper into our purpose and what gives us life within the industry. This time of year can be a time of transition for a lot of people within our profession, so being around the Uncommon community provided comfort and grounding as we could pour truth into one another. Regardless of what stage we are each in professionally, we can all share and reflect on His faithfulness. It was also special to meet other USG members that were attending the convention and make an instant connection. Strong community within the sports industry is so valuable, and what we are all looking for, so I feel grateful and blessed to have found it through USG!"- Mallory Odell, Graduate Assistant at Valdosta State University
"Experiencing Dallas and the WBCA with Uncommon Sports Group (USG) was definitely a highlight of April. Getting the opportunity to learn from and meet other coaches in women's basketball is a major opportunity to take what I learned and impact the program I work with. It was great being able to go with other USG members as we could connect in our passion for the game and faith."- Ian Keiderling, Graduate Assistant at Grand View University
It is encouraging to see the many ways that God is impacting future leaders of sport through events like the WBCA Convention. We are grateful to Mallory and Ian for their testimonies!
If you desire to get involved with our community of Christians within the college and pro sport industry, apply to join or connect with our staff!
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