May 9, 2011
LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) - Last week, members of the UNLV women's basketball coaching staff make a trip out to Robert Taylor Elementary School for the school's career day. Below is a write-up of the event from one of the school's teachers.
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Robert Taylor Tigers students K-5th in Henderson received a real treat for this year's Career Day. On Thursday, May 5th, surprise visits from the UNLV Lady Rebels Head Coach Kathy Olivier and Assistant Coach Nikki Blue got the entire student body pumped up and ready for a new and exciting season ahead. The coaches spoke to students about the importance of basketball fundamentals and team development. The children were excited and showed much school spirit when Coach Blue taught them defensive stances. Coach Olivier broke down what a "Triple Threat" means in basketball. Students were excited and learned in just a few moments how to pass, dribble, and score!
Mr. Williams, a Special Education teacher at Taylor ES and football coach at Rancho HS commented, "To see the kids eyes pop wide open and learn skills from two of the best in the business was so amazing! The message of education, work ethics, and doing your best was so positive and true from Coach Olivier and Coach Blue that I know this was a surreal and life changing experience for all of these kids. The fact that these ladies took their personal time to work with the children speaks volumes about their own individual commitments to education and student success. When more people step up like Coach Blue and Coach Olivier did today, we will make an immense impact on student's lives and futures."
The students also took pictures with the coaches and even asked if they knew anyone famous. Coach Olivier told a funny story about a famous NBA player she met and how she provided some game-time inspiration. The students were already talking about next year's career day and how the Lady Rebs would always be welcome at Robert Taylor ES before the coaches even left the building. Career Day was a huge success at Taylor ES this year because so many people in the community took their time to help the students learn. When the community comes together to support education, then we all win!
