Dani Fits Right N

While it’s only the second week of indoor practice under Busboom-Kelly, it looks like she's been the coach for years already. While her presence is a massive shift from Cook’s, it’s clear that she has already developed rapport and the trust of her players. Dani’s easy-going demeanor pays off in various ways; relieving the burden of stress from her players, introducing a factor of relatability, and building a bond of mutual respect and transparency.  She has been praised for taking things with a grain of salt as they come, implementing a “matter of fact” approach, and never allowing herself to become too overwhelmed – able to adapt and transform with the changing times. This was perfectly displayed on April Fools Day, when the players pranked the coaching staff by pausing mid-practice to take a lap around the arena. Dani simply stood around and laughed to herself as they ran off, even trying to prank them back. Merritt Beason, a former product of Cook, said that he probably “would’ve had a heart attack,” if they had done the same thing to him.  

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It’s so heartwarming to see her bonding with the players, and her disposition is surely a breath of fresh air in the gym. She has always been described as friendly and relatable since her days as an assistant coach and recruiter, and one of her greatest characteristics is her openness and honesty. But while her personality is incredibly compatible with the team, it is merely an added benefit to her obvious coaching prestige and ability. Dani connects people, makes them feel a part of a larger family, and cultivates an environment you want to buy into. The spring will be a learning curve for everyone, but that’s what it's for; work out the kinks, refine new skills, and find the proper balance of the strengths and weaknesses of both the players and staff. While the customs and values of the program are heavily reflective of the leadership it has, the program expectations are unwavering; to win a National Title.

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