In preparation for the upcoming season, Coach Gilbert organized several speakers during the months of May and June to inspire and motivate his Colorado Northwestern Women's (CNCC) Women's Basketball players. The team started out the week with two fantastic former college/pro players: Lauren Coleman who played for Florida State University and Edniesha Curry who is the only active woman coaching NCAA Divison I Men's Basketball. Each speaker inspired the CNCC team in different ways.

Lauren Coleman spoke about her ups and downs at FSU and provided a positive message to the Women's Basketball Team about overcoming injury and playing for the great Sue Semrau, FSU Head Women's Basketball Coach. She spoke about her upbringing and what allowed her the opportunity to chase her dream of playing at the Division I level. She also touched on her injury in back to back seasons at FSU and how she did not allow that to stop her from chasing her dreams. Coleman explained to athletes that hard work and perseverance will lead to success. In her final remarks, Coleman left CNCC Women's Basketball players with wise words of advice. "One thing I have noticed too is –relationships- if it's not a healthy one stay away from it... I'm talking about all relationships… If it's not helping you get to your goals, in a positive way, it ain't worth it. Stay away from those toxic people who don't want to help you get to where you're going to." Coleman advised players to surround themselves with others who bring positivity into their lives and help them pursue their goals.

The next speaker, Edniesha Curry, the only active woman currently coaching Men's Division I basketball spoke to players about her journey that led her to her current position. The players gained a lot of guidance from her and she demonstrated for athletes the mindset needed to achieve goals. When asked what she did when she felt like quitting, Curry responded saying that she never did feel like quitting "Greatness takes time," says Curry. It is this mindset and dedication to growth and success that inspires players to give their all in every area of life. Zoe Young, incoming freshman, valued her conversation with Curry as she strives to be a head basketball coach also.

"One thing that I admired about Coach E is she never let being a woman stop her from coaching men's basketball. When my playing days are over, I plan on coming back to coach with Coach Gilbert if he has an opening on his staff. From there I will try to make my way into the Men's side of the ball and try to become the same type of coach as Mrs. Curry," said Zoe Young.

CNCC Women's Basketball is grateful to this week's speakers. The advice they offered to players will help to power a strong academic year and basketball season.