U of Windsor Women’s Basketball and Powerplay Sports Unite with Baron®‘s Inspire To Play Initiative

February 28, 2024 – Join us as we get a front row seat to learn more about U of Windsor Women’s Basketball players & coaches alongside Bob Bellacicco from Powerplay Sports.

• 38th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day
• Q&A Session with Baron®‘s Anna Facecchia and Kay Mendonca
• 37th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day
• 36th Annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day

In this exclusive series of interviews, we delve into the experiences and perspectives of four remarkable individuals associated with the University of Windsor’s Women’s Basketball team.

From the strategic insights of Mariah Chandler, the Lead Assistant Coach, to the transformative leadership of Chantal Vallee, the Head Coach, and the on-court reflections of players Reine Ndome and Isabella Anes.

These conversations provide an insightful glimpse into the triumphs, challenges, and inspirations that shape the dynamic landscape of women’s collegiate basketball and share their insights on the journeys of women in sports.

In an exclusive interview conducted by Powerplay Sports’ Bob Bellacicco, Mariah Chandler, the Lead Assistant Coach for the University of Windsor Lancers Women’s Basketball team, shared her insights on the journey of women in sports, the evolving landscape, and the inspiring stories that continue to shape the narrative.

Breaking Barriers:
Mariah reflected on the historical challenges that women have overcome to reach their current standing in sports. Drawing from her experiences in the United States, she highlighted the transformative journey from three-on-three basketball to the contemporary five-on-five format. Despite the hurdles, she emphasized the importance of taking pride in the progress made.

“Just seeing how long it’s taken us to get where we are. But being proud of those moments that’s what I think about. “

The Beauty of Progress:
Expressing optimism, Mariah acknowledged the beauty in the ongoing advancements within women’s sports. She emphasized that while there is still a long way to go, the collective movement forward is what truly matters. Mariah noted the positive trend in talent enhancement and the growing interest of young women in sports, citing the impact of role models like Sabrina Ionescu and Caitlin Clark.

“The talent is getting better, these young ladies are looking to get into sports, and I think that’s a big thing as well. Growing up a lot of young ladies were not looking to get into sports and now you have people that are looking up to Sabrina Ionescu who’s with the New York Liberty or you have Caitlin Clark who’s with Iowa.”

Breaking Gender Boundaries:
Mariah discussed her willingness to challenge gender norms in coaching. Drawing inspiration from trailblazers like Kara Lawson and Lindsay Gottlieb, who have successfully coached in the NBA, she emphasized the importance of dismantling barriers based on gender, age, and background.

“You have so many women of different ages of different colors, that have different backgrounds, that have played at a high level, who have not played at a high level. Making those walls kind of separate and open up those doors that we’ve never really thought that we can actually go through. And so seeing them only in as far as me to do it.”

Mariah concluded the interview with a powerful message of self-empowerment, urging women to believe in their capabilities and pursue their aspirations with unwavering positivity. She emphasized the limitless potential of women in sports and the need to continue opening doors for future generations.

This insightful conversation with Mariah Chandler not only sheds light on the progress made but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring female athletes and those striving to make their mark in the world of sports.

Explore the complete interview with Mariah Chandler below.

In a candid and inspiring interview with Powerplay Sports’ Bob Bellacicco, Chantal Vallée, the Head Coach for the University of Windsor Lancers Women’s Basketball team, shared her remarkable journey, highlighting pivotal moments and the transformative power of women in sports.

Dreams and Beginnings:
Chantal reflected on her early days in Windsor, where she took on the role of a university team coach for the first time. She vividly described the anticipation and excitement of her first game, surprised with the reality of a nearly empty arena. Over the years, her dedication and vision led the team to unprecedented heights, culminating in the hosting of their 2011 National Championships, a moment etched in her memory.

“I will always remember the first game that was here. It was important for me [since] it was my profession. So I take time to do my hair and my makeup…I buy a suit and I’m all ready for this first game. When I came in there, this is not an exaggeration, there were 15 fans in the stands and they were the parent or the friends of the players. I remember looking at this and said “oh wow like this is kind of…”

Chantal pointed out that, as per the Fieldhouse sign displaying a capacity of 2,200 people, the basketball court was noticeably vacant.

Chantal emphasized that the ongoing presence of women in sports serves as a demonstration to the media, corporations, and young women, reinforcing the inherent worth and value of females participating in competitive sports.

Life Beyond Championships:
Chantal expressed equal pride in the diverse paths her athletes have taken post-graduation. While celebrating the professional success of those who became athletes, she equally commended those who pursued careers as firefighters, police officers, nurses, doctors, teachers, and even stay-at-home moms. Chantal believes that the life skills developed through sports contribute significantly to the success of her former athletes in various fields.

“Those life skills have helped some of them become professional in the sport but others become leaders.”

Sport as a Catalyst for Change:
Chantal shared a powerful example of a former athlete who became a nursing floor lead at the age of 28. This story exemplifies how the skills learned through sports – discipline, time management, pressure handling, leadership, and respect for authority – transcend the court and become valuable assets in the professional world. Chantal concluded with a passionate affirmation of the importance of sports in shaping confident, resilient, and successful women.

Chantal Vallée’s interview not only provides a glimpse into the achievements of the University of Windsor’s Women’s Basketball program but also underscores the profound impact that women in sports can have on individuals and communities, extending far beyond the realms of victory.

Explore the complete interview with Chantal Vallée below.

In a compelling interview conducted by Powerplay Sports’ Bob Bellacicco, Reine Ndome, Guard for the University of Windsor Lancers Women’s Basketball team, shared her impactful journey, shedding light on the significance of promoting sports for young women and the evolving landscape of women in sports.

Roots in Cartierville, Montreal:
Reine began by describing her upbringing in Cartierville, Montreal, a neighborhood rich with immigrants. She credited her High School coaches for actively promoting sports for young women. Attending her high school, Reine appreciated the dedicated efforts in skill development and creating opportunities for girls, with a strong focus on empowering women to reach their highest potential.

“They were really great there, helping develop skills for us, and creating opportunities for young women. The focus was really on women to get us as far as possible.”

Staying Connected During the Pandemic:
Reflecting on the challenges brought by COVID-19, Reine shared her experience of transitioning to online platforms. Despite the distance imposed by the pandemic, she remained committed to staying connected to basketball. Engaging with social media, Reine observed how women athletes worldwide adapted to the situation, finding innovative ways to continue their training at home.

“I was looking at a lot of women trying to find ways to stay connected to their sport, by working out at home.”

In the final installment of Powerplay Sports’ illuminating interview series, Isabella Anes, a talented Guard for the University of Windsor Lancers Women’s Basketball team, takes us on a journey from Venezuela to Canada, breaking molds, setting examples, and advocating for the empowerment of women in sports.

A Trailblazer’s Journey:
Isabella begins by sharing the significance of leaving her hometown in Venezuela on a scholarship. This achievement not only transformed her life but resonated deeply with her family, community, and hometown.

As the lone woman in her club to pursue such an opportunity, Isabella reflects on the humbling experience of breaking barriers and shifting the focus toward recognizing female athletes.

“People are looking not only at men, not only at the guys in the club but they’re now looking at the girls as well. Having experienced that firsthand is very humbling and very inspiring as well.”

As Isabella Anes concludes her interview, her words echo a resounding call for change, recognition, and equal opportunities in the world of women’s sports.

Her story encapsulates not only personal triumphs but a commitment to uplifting the next generation of female athletes, ensuring they receive the credit, attention, and opportunities they rightfully deserve.

In the realm of women’s basketball, Isabella Anes stands not just as a skilled guard but as a beacon of inspiration, paving the way for a future where female athletes receive the acknowledgment and support they merit.

“Initiatives like this are going to move the needle toward progress and more support for women.”

Explore the complete interview with Isabella Anes below.