Simon Fraser University's women`s basketball coach Bruce Langford announced the hiring of Emily Wright as the team`s new assistant coach.
"Emily has all the ingredients that we were looking for when we posted this position," said Langford. "She has extensive coaching experience, is highly motivated and has shown her commitment to the sport in numerous ways."
Wright comes to SFU after three seasons as an assistant coach for the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Eagles, her alma mater.
"I always pictured myself ending up at an NCAA institution, and this is just such an amazing way to do it," said Wright. "I followed the NCAA since I was a kid and ever since the Clan joined the NCAA, I have been following the program extensively."
During her time with Kwantlen, Wright played a major role in recruiting gifted student-athletes and fostering a balance for her team between their athletic and academic schedules. She was also responsible for the programs fundraising as well as statistics and video maintenance.
"She has a great handle on recruiting, and her coaching related education is more than we had expected," continued Langford.
Prior to joining the Eagles, Wright earned her Master's in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University-Irvine California, graduating with a 4.0 grade point average. She has also been approved for a PhD in sports psychology.
"My practicum was at an NCAA Division II school in California so I am very familiar with NCAA rules and regulations thanks to my time there. That will help me transition into this position," continued Wright.
Wright is the co-founder of British Columbia`s Excel Basketball Academy, where she has coached since it opened in 2011.
Over the years, Wright has also spent time coaching local high school basketball programs, and was assistant coach of the 2011 16-and-under British Columbia provincial team.
"Starting Excel Basketball really proves the initiative that Emily will bring to our program. She understands the commitment that comes with running such a program and that hard work and long hours are all a necessity of the job," added Langford.
Following her high school basketball career, Wright played five years of collegiate basketball with Langara College (2005-2008), Carleton University (2008) and Kwantlen Polytechnic University (2009) before beginning her master's education in California.
"The ball that I played in college is definitely less physical than the Division II game, but I am excited to help our players reach their potential in this amazing league," explained Wright.
Wright joins SFU following the school`s first official year in the Div. II, that ended in a run to the Sweet 16 for the Clan.
"In preparation for next season I will be spending my time getting to know both the school and our current team. I'll also look at familiarizing myself with our league and competitors so that I am ready for the fall," said Wright.
