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UCLA Coach Cori Close: Coaching Hearts, Not Just Wins
18 Apr
Summary
- Coach Close emphasizes mentoring and equipping players for life beyond basketball.
- Documentary shows courage, vulnerability, and authenticity in women's sports.
- UCLA's program welcomes all backgrounds, fostering joy and connection.
UCLA women's basketball coach Cori Close, fresh off a national championship, shared insights into her coaching philosophy, influenced by UCLA legend John Wooden. Close emphasized that her role extends beyond coaching wins to "coaching people's hearts" and equipping them for life.
A documentary project focused on the team aims to reveal the courage and vulnerability within women's sports. Executive producers highlighted that the story is fundamentally human, exploring the players' lives and support systems, not just game outcomes.
The film sought to capture authentic moments, showing the team through both triumphs and challenges. Producers assured players they were not looking for "gotcha moments," fostering trust and allowing for genuine storytelling.
Coach Close described women's basketball as the most diverse college sport, with her program embracing a "all of you is welcome here" ethos. This inclusive environment fosters learning and connection, providing viewers with joy and hope, not just sports results.
