Thirty female athletes were given the chance of a lifetime — an invite from Nike to three Chicago SKY clinics.
They were invited to attend the events at The Moody Bible Institute — along with their high school coaches — by assistant coach to SKY, Stephanie White. Athletes from Glenbard North, Prospect Heights and Leyden got the fantastic opportunity to be part of what “Time to Shine” is all about.
Upon arrival, the girls watched while the ladies from Chicago SKY tore up the court during a riveting practice. Nike reps Vince Leigh and Leroy Ebanks noticed how fascinating it was for many of the girl’s to see real pro players during a practice. It was a peek inside what WNBA athletes face day to day without all the bright lights and fans on television. Given the benefit of seeing how each player took her components and applied them directly to the team as a whole was the kind of visual example some of these girls had only heard about.
After SKY’s two hour long rigorous practice, Stephanie White enthusiastically let the girls hit the courts to show their skills. Participants donned their free Nike tees and anxiously got to work. SKY players Armintie Price and Stacey Dales personally coached each of the three high school teams in innovative drills, many of which they had never heard of or seen before. It was clear that some of these ladies had to get used to the speed and endurance necessary to practice with their favorite players. The intense drills and constant change-ups kept the girls active close to the entire time.
It was a perfect way for these girls to show what they’ve got and to learn what they need more of. The idea is that while during the season, each athlete has to make their team top priority. When summer rolls around, they have more time to hone their skills as individuals and work hard for themselves. Some high school teams also do not have a lot of activity off season, making this unique experience the perfect opportunity for diverse teams all around Chicago land to connect and take a big step up.
On the way out, the girls were given Nike and Chicago Sky team information and exclaimed to their coaches how awesome the clinic was. It seemed that these girls were reminded that if basketball means a lot and they want to be successful, they’ve got to work hard year round. The coaches were also educated in how to run practices more effectively.
“These girls are given drills they can work on all summer and then properly execute when the season begins.” Leroy observed. “Stephanie can run this in her sleep.” The girls are able to get constructive criticism immediately after trying new techniques by very supportive methods that are effective for young athletes. Many participants of the clinics end up thanking Nike for the great basketball experience and dedication of the Sky players who gave them personal attention. They are given the knowledge to play better, because it takes more than just knowing the rules of the game.
