Basketball Tryout Insider: Meet Head Coach Secrett Stubblefield
Tryouts for the Asphalt Green competitive basketball teams are right around the corner. Former professional and head coach Secrett Stubblefield shares her experiences as an athlete, tips for finding success in the sport, and her favorite memories as a player and coach.
Q: How did you get started in basketball?
A: I was actually a serious baseball player (pitcher) growing up. Once I turned 13, I refused to play softball, so I switched my focus to basketball. I also was a huge Michael Jordan and Chicago Bulls fan. I started watching the pros and developed an interest; my competitive career started in high school.
Q: What challenges did you have to face?
A: Growing up in a military family, I moved around every two to three years. I went to eight total schools from kindergarten to 12th grade and attended three high schools in four years. Each time I had to prove myself and get accustomed to a new school, team, and coaches. It made the recruiting process tough.
Q: What is the best piece of advice you were given?
A: Think before you speak.
Q: What three pieces of advice would you give to kids who want to play competitively?
A: 1. Be coachable.
2. Be a great teammate.
3. EVERY TIME you hit the court, practice and play like it’s your last.
Q: What do you love most about coaching?
A: I enjoy building kids’ skills and being part of priceless memories the athletes will have forever.
Q: Who did you look up to?
A: I looked up to Allen Iverson growing up, but once I got to college and beyond it was all about Kobe Bryant.
Q: What is your favorite memory as a player?
A: I made a 3-point shot at the buzzer to take my team (one of my three high schools) into overtime. I eventually led us past a rival we had not defeated in 12 years.
Q: What is your favorite memory as a coach?
A: My first year as a coach I won the Virginia AA Region III Coach of the Year award. I took my girls varsity high school team to the state championship game by way of beating a rival team at the buzzer to make it to the finals.
Q: Why do you think it’s important for kids to participate in sports?
A: Playing sports builds leadership, character, and communication skills that are valuable in life.
Q: What life lessons have you learned from basketball?
A: Through playing and coaching, I have been able to hone my ability to effectively lead, communicate with, and motivate people of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. It is a valuable quality that I use in everyday life.
Q: What are you goals for the Asphalt Green Basketball Team this year?
A: I would like my 10U team to continue the momentum they built last year after winning the championship. My goal for the 17U team is to see all of the seniors move on to play in college.
Tryouts for the 2016-2017 competitive teams kick off June 7! See the Asphalt Green Basketball Team tryout schedule, and register today.
