Uconn Womens Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma Has Strong ...
Geno Auriemma is a legend in women's basketball. He has been the head coach of the University of Connecticut (UConn) women's basketball team since 1985, and during that time he has helped build the program into the most dominant in the sport.
Early Life and Career
Geno Auriemma was born on March 23, 1954, in Montella, Italy. He grew up in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and attended Bishop Kenrick High School. Auriemma then went on to play college basketball at West Chester University, where he was a point guard for the Golden Rams.
After college, Auriemma began his coaching career at Bishop Kenrick High School. He then moved on to become an assistant coach at St. Joseph's University before becoming the head coach at the University of Connecticut in 1985.
The UConn Dynasty
Under Geno Auriemma's leadership, the UConn women's basketball team has become the most dominant program in the sport. The team has won 11 NCAA championships, including four straight from 2013-2016, and has made it to the Final Four 20 times.
Auriemma has also coached some of the greatest players in women's basketball history, including Rebecca Lobo, Diana Taurasi, and Breanna Stewart.
Off the Court
Geno Auriemma is known not just for his success on the court, but off of it as well. He has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports, and has spoken out about the need for more women in coaching and leadership positions.
Auriemma has also been involved in numerous charitable organizations, including Coaches vs. Cancer and the Connecticut Children's Medical Center.
The Auriemma Coaching Tree
Geno Auriemma has not only been a great coach himself, but he has also produced a number of successful coaches who have learned under him. These coaches, known as the "Auriemma Coaching Tree," have gone on to become head coaches at various universities, including Chris Dailey at UConn, Tonya Cardoza at Temple University, and Jennifer Rizzotti at the University of Hartford.
Conclusion
Geno Auriemma is a true legend in women's basketball, known for his success on the court and his advocacy for gender equality in sports. His influence can be seen not just in the UConn women's basketball program, but in the numerous coaches he has produced who have gone on to successful careers of their own.