As the basketball season comes closer, it’s important to know what to expect for the tryouts and get to know your coach. This year, our girls’ basketball team will continue to be coached by Amanda Gutierrez. As the head coach, she is hopeful that lots of girls will try out, even if they’re new to the sport. She has high hopes for the season and even commented, “Maybe it [this interview] will inspire someone to try out!” Below, you will find a brief interview with Coach Gutierez about who she is and what to expect from tryouts and the season as a whole.
How many years have you coached basketball?
“I have coached girls’ basketball for two years. This will be my third year coaching.”
Why did you decide to coach basketball?
“Honestly, I decided to coach because the previous coach was leaving and Samantha, my oldest, asked me to think about taking the position.”
What are you most excited for this season?
“I hope each season gets better as far as finding more teams to play and improving as a program. The thing that excites me the most, though, is watching the change that happens for all the girls over the course of the season; the skills and confidence that each player develops.”
How many people are you hoping to get on your team(s)?
“Eight to ten on a team is ideal. Last year we had a JV and a Varsity team, so I would like to continue that this year. If I could get 16 girls then that would be a great way to make two teams of eight.”
What will tryouts look like?
“Tryouts will look a lot like normal basketball practice. As a coach it is a chance for me to assess each player’s skill level and decide where they will best fit on the team. In my two years coaching everyone who has tried out has made the team.”
What does it take to be a part of the team?
“Being part of the team means working well with others, encouraging your teammates, and working to improve your own skills as well as the overall team’s skills.”
What does a quality athlete look like to you?
“A quality athlete is someone who tries their best, enjoys the sport, has a positive attitude, does not allow weakness or failure to define them, and is always willing to improve.”
What factors affect your final tryouts decision?
“The biggest factor is the number of girls that tryout. I don’t expect to cut anyone from the team but if some year there were more than 20 trying out, then I probably would.”
Are there any expected tournaments this season?
“Not that I know of, but I would entertain the idea of organizing 4-6 schools to create our own tournament.”
