FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. -- Two Hope College coaches recently took part in national leadership development programs hosted by WeCOACH, furthering their growth as leaders and mentors in collegiate athletics.
Women’s basketball associate head coach and assistant athletic director Courtney Kust was among 85 participants in Class #54 of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA). The WCA, a partnership between WeCOACH and the NCAA, is a multi-day growth and development program designed for women coaches across all collegiate levels and sports. Since its inception, more than 2,300 coaches have graduated from the program, which emphasizes holistic leadership, confidence building, and fostering inclusion in the coaching profession.
Kust called the experience one of the highlights of her coaching career.
“Being part of WCA Class #54 was truly one of the highlights of my coaching journey! I was blown away by the event itself—the hospitality, thoughtfulness, and attention to detail that made the academy so special—but even more so by the people and the connections formed over just 2.5 days,” Kust said. “To be in a room full of women from across the country, representing so many different sports, who were willing to be vulnerable, connect deeply, and learn together from incredible speakers—that was remarkable. Talk about a group of difference makers!!! I left feeling inspired to begin a new year, challenged to keep growing and pushing myself, and deeply grateful to be in the profession I am—being a coach is the greatest job in the world!”
Softball assistant coach Mercede Daugherty participated in Class #8 of the NCAA Academy 2.0, an advanced program exclusively for WCA alumnae. Academy 2.0 builds upon the skills and knowledge gained in the original program, offering a deeper dive into leadership and professional growth in a small, highly interactive setting. Only 18 coaches nationwide were selected for the most recent session.
Daugherty reflected on the impact of the experience.
“The WeCOACH NCAA Women’s Coaches Academy 2.0 gave me the tools and confidence to lead with authenticity,” Daugherty said. “I left feeling more connected to myself, my peers, and the bigger mission of women in sport. This experience reminded me of the power of community. Being surrounded by strong, passionate women reignited my commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation. I am excited to continue to grow and lead others both on and off the field.”
Through their involvement, Kust and Daugherty not only advanced their own leadership skills but also strengthened the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association and Hope College Athletics by bringing back fresh perspectives, strategies, and renewed inspiration to serve their student-athletes.