First Annual SheCan Academy’s Coach Shelia Mock Media Day

This past Saturday, September 14, 2024, was the first annual SheCan Academy’s Coach Shelia Mock Media Day. SheCan Academy is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young women through programs and education. The event was held from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm and was jam packed with useful speakers and resources for the participants. 

There were about 40 young ladies present representing a wide range of sports including basketball, volleyball, track, softball, swimming, golf and cheerleading.

The girls started the day with a continental breakfast, pictures and a round of interviews from various local media and volunteers. They were also able to get a free sport physical during this time. 

Next, they moved on to listen to several speakers who covered topics such as mental and physical health, graduation requirements, social media content, NIL, branding, the transition from high school to college and advice from a professional basketball player and sports analyst. 

Then, they moved on to the breakout sessions to get advice on conducting a good interview.  Lastly, they were able to participate in a mock press conference and then were sent home with a hot meal and a goodie bag.

This was an excellent event filled with great advice and resources that these young ladies can put into practice immediately and it was totally free. Coach Shelia continues to make a positive impact on the youth in our community even after retiring from coaching basketball. I look forward to covering this event for many years in the future.

Want to give a special shout out to a few local basketball legends that were in attendance:

Kayla Brewer

Kim Gallon

Brittany Lewis

Steffi Sorenson

Also, want to mention the other speakers and presenters that volunteered their time to be in attendance:

Chris Porter

Dr. Gee

Kim Perry

Neisha Butler

Traci Zamor

Wilshem Pennick

Arjun Luke

About the author

Coach Patrece was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL. She has over 25 years of experience playing and working in the sports industry. Her love for sports was cultivated at a young and she played several while in middle and high school. Coach Patrece attended Florida State University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Sport Management and served as a team manager and assistant equipment manager for the Women's Basketball team. She then became head JV coach for girls' basketball at Robert E. Lee High School and later worked with the semi-pro team the Florida Lady Knighthawks in various roles.