With the Ooks Athletics Senior Days approaching, it's clear that NAIT's teams are in a transitional phase. Only six players across all programs will be graduating this year, highlighting just how young the squads are.

Notably, the Women's Basketball team has no graduating players, emphasizing the fresh foundation being built for the future. 

Head Coach Kiera Lyons acknowledges the challenges that come with a young team but also sees the long-term potential. 

"Having a young team can come with lots of challenges. Winning programs take time, you must be able to develop trust, and that doesn't happen overnight," she explains. 

While youth can bring growing pains, Coach Lyons also sees it as an asset. She believes that a team's inexperience can actually work in its favor. 

"The more you learn and play, confidence issues naturally arise. But when you have a young team, they don't know any better, they just come in and play. That level of fearlessness can be a big advantage," she says. 

Head Coach Erminia Russo Thorpe shares a similar perspective. Her squad is also fairly young, with only two players set to graduate. She initially had concerns about how her less-experienced athletes would mesh with the veterans but was pleasantly surprised. 

"Everyone has connected really well," she shares. "Having such skilled younger players pushes a level of competitiveness within our squad, which can be a great asset." 

For both coaches, having a younger team presents unique opportunities, but it also requires adjustments in their coaching styles. Lyons acknowledges that her approach evolves each year as she integrates fresh faces into the program. 

"I find myself going back to the basics, really focusing on fundamental skills," she says. "Without mastering the basics, we can't execute the kinds of plays we hope to run on the court." 

As the Ooks continue to develop their young squads, the foundation is being laid for future success. While challenges remain, the energy and potential of these up-and-coming athletes are setting the stage for exciting seasons ahead.