Jodie Runner
Head Coach
Jodie Runner has given the Shepherd College women's basketball five years of dedication as an assistant and plans on extending that effort to an even higher level of commitment as the program's head coach. She brings out great enthusiasm and and pride in both the girls and the program as a whole.
"These girls and this program are my passion, I've recruited them and spent the majority of my time with them. There is nothing more in this world that I would rather do than to try and help them reach their potential as a person and a player. To see the smiles on their faces when they final succeed in something is priceless."
On the Court
A change in command leads to changes in the style of coaching and the approach to the game. On the court the Shepherd women's basketball team has been noted for its defense and unmatchable intensity. After successfully ending the year as one of the best defensive teams in the WVIAC, Runner has placed a challenge on her girls to excel to an even higher level of defense. Defense is about one's desire to dominate your opponent. Both the team and staff take pride in their defense and believe it will against be the strength for the program. Offensively the Rams will be challenged as well. A new philosophy has been added to the team's offense. Runner is opening up great opportunities for her team to use their individual skills. She has incorporated a motion-like offense which will allow the players to adapt more to defensive changes and contribute to each others success."In essence, we are looking to turn up our defense and cut our offense loose a little bit. When our girls have the frame of mind where they are challenged each time on the defensive end to dominate and get a stop and then be relaxed on offense, I think we we will be hard to beat."
Off the Court
Runner strives to provide the learning atmosphere that emphasizes classroom dedication and individual commitment to one's collegiate success. With close monitoring of her student-athletes in the classroom, continued success is expected."I have always told them that if they can't get it done in the classroom, they don't deserve to be on the court."
Behind the Scenes
The SC women's basketball team feels deeply about continuing their relationship with the surrounding community. The Rams enjoy returning support to those who have backed them throughout the years. After creating the Shepherd College Women's Basketball Hoop Troop for the community kids, Runner has also strived to get her team involved with volunteering and other involvement in community projects."Our girls love giving back by working with people, especially children. In return they learn how important it is to be a good role model on and off the court when so many little eyes are watching them."