Story Courtesy: Gary Stallard, Angelina College Athletics
New Leadership in Angelina College Women’s Basketball
Addie Lees has recently been appointed as the head coach for the women’s basketball team at Angelina College. Known for her impressive background in the sport, Lees aims to leverage her extensive experience, especially from her time at Kilgore College where she led the Rangers to three seasons with over 20 wins and a national ranking.
Experience and Competitiveness
Lees expressed excitement about returning to Region XIV, a league recognized for its high-caliber competition. “I’m a competitor, and Region XIV produces phenomenal student-athletes year after year,” she remarked, highlighting her eagerness to engage in the competitive landscape once again.
Community and Institutional Support
One of the main attractions for Lees in taking this role was the supportive environment fostered by Angelina College’s administration. She emphasized, “It’s the people here,” noting the alignment of the institution’s mission with her own values concerning positive impact and personal growth.
Reflections on Past Experiences
Reflecting on her previous engagements in Region XIV, Lees credits the challenges faced as instrumental in her later successes. She stated, “I definitely learned to take risks and develop my craft,” emphasizing the importance of preparation and resilience in her coaching journey.
During her tenure at Arkansas State University – Midsouth, Lees quickly assembled a competitive team that not only won the NJCAA Region 2 Tournament title but also maintained academic excellence, exemplifying her commitment to a holistic approach to coaching.
Academic Success and Player Development
Lees places a strong emphasis on academic performance, establishing from the outset that a 100% graduation rate is a goal alongside athletic success. “I want them to know we’re going to go through highs and lows, and we’re going to experience success and failure,” she explained. Her philosophy prioritizes the person and the student before the athlete, focusing on transformational growth throughout their college experience.
Preparing for Future Challenges
A native of Plainview, Texas, Lees is passionate about preparing her athletes for life beyond basketball. She stated, “One day, the ball is going to go flat,” indicating her focus on ensuring that players leave college equipped with not just athletic skills, but also academic credentials that will benefit them in their careers.
Commitment to Excellence
Lees concluded by expressing her desire for both athletes and the broader student body at Angelina College to strive for academic excellence. “This is all full-circle for me,” she shared, reflecting on the comprehensive support system at the college, aiming to inspire students to reach their highest potential.
