The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the Northeast Conference (NEC) for over two decades. With a rich history of success, the team has established itself as a perennial contender for conference championships. In this article, we will delve into the team's profile, highlighting their achievements, notable players, and coaching staff.
History and Achievements
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team was established in 1999, and since then, they have been a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC). Over the years, the team has enjoyed significant success, including six NEC Tournament championships and four regular-season titles. Their most recent NEC Tournament championship came in 2019, when they defeated the Robert Morris Colonials 72-60 in the championship game.
In addition to their conference success, the Pioneers have also made appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Their most recent NCAA Tournament appearance was in 2012, when they lost to the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the first round.
Notable Players
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team has been fortunate to have had several talented players throughout their history. Some of the most notable players include:
- Alisa Apo: Apo is the all-time leading scorer in Sacred Heart University history, with 1,724 points. She was a three-time NEC Player of the Year and was named to the NEC All-Tournament Team four times.
- Morgan Merriman: Merriman was a dominant force in the paint, earning NEC Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2012. She was also a two-time NEC All-Tournament Team selection.
- Kelsey Coward: Coward was a sharpshooter who holds the school record for most three-pointers made in a single season. She was a two-time NEC All-Tournament Team selection and was named NEC Player of the Week three times.
Coaching Staff
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team is led by head coach Jessica Mannetti. Mannetti, who is in her fifth season at the helm, has been instrumental in the team's success, leading them to two NEC Tournament championships and two regular-season titles.
Mannetti is assisted by associate head coach Brian Callahan and assistant coaches Kelsie Murray and Taylahne Thomas.
Facilities and Resources
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team plays their home games at the William H. Pitt Center. The Pitt Center, which has a seating capacity of 2,100, is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the team with an excellent environment to compete and train.
In addition to the Pitt Center, the team also has access to a variety of resources, including a strength and conditioning center, a sports medicine center, and a academic support center.
Program Philosophy
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball program is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. The team's philosophy is centered around the development of the whole student-athlete, both on and off the court.
"We strive to create an environment that is supportive, inclusive, and challenging," said head coach Jessica Mannetti. "We want our student-athletes to grow and develop as individuals, and to become the best version of themselves."
Community Involvement
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team is committed to giving back to the community. The team participates in a variety of community service initiatives, including youth basketball clinics, hospital visits, and charity events.
"We believe that it is our responsibility to make a positive impact on the community," said Mannetti. "We want to be a positive influence on the lives of young people, and to be a role model for them to follow."
Conclusion
The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team is a program that is rich in tradition and success. With a strong coaching staff, talented players, and excellent facilities and resources, the team is well-positioned to continue their winning ways in the future.
As the team continues to grow and develop, they remain committed to their core values of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. With a strong foundation in place, the Pioneers are poised to make a lasting impact on the world of women's basketball.
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FAQ Section:
What is the Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team's conference affiliation?
+The Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team is a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC).
Who is the head coach of the Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team?
+The head coach of the Sacred Heart University Pioneers women's basketball team is Jessica Mannetti.
What is the seating capacity of the William H. Pitt Center?
+The seating capacity of the William H. Pitt Center is 2,100.