WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — One year after the Women in Coaching (WIC) initiative launched at West Liberty University, the group has taken significant strides in strengthening community, mentorship, and professional development across the Hilltop. What began as a small circle of coaches seeking connection during a period of departmental transition has grown into a unified, impactful network of women committed to elevating each other—and the profession.
This month, WIC released a special Year in Review podcast, reflecting on its foundational season and laying out its mission and vision for the future. The conversation served as a milestone moment, marking just how far the initiative has come in its first full year.
WIC was established in 2024 as West Liberty athletics navigated a time of change. During that period, coaches asked themselves not only how they could adapt but also how they could lead. That is when associate head women's basketball coach Cassie Seth, now entering her ninth year at West Liberty, recognized an opportunity to build something lasting.
"In year one, our focus was connection and support during a transitional time," Seth said on the podcast. "In year two, we've really started to grow into a purpose-driven group—one that is intentional about developing women leaders and sustaining this momentum."
Throughout 2024–25, WIC's monthly meetings expanded beyond group discussions. Sessions included professional development presentations, shared problem-solving, guest speakers, and collaborative mentoring between veteran and early-career coaches. The group also created informal support spaces, strengthening relationships across sports programs.
Director of Athletics Brad Forshey has continued to champion the group's impact.
"When women in leadership roles are supported and empowered, the entire department grows stronger," Forshey said. "Watching WIC evolve this year has reinforced how valuable their voices are—not just for our current staff, but for the culture we want to build in the future."
Coaches across the department have echoed that sentiment. Sara Pelegreen, head softball coach and one of the earliest members, said the initiative has deepened both mentorship and camaraderie.
"One of the best parts of WIC is the exchange of experiences," Pelegreen said. "I've learned from women who have been on this campus for years, and I've been able to share my own experiences with new coaches. That cycle of support is what makes this group so meaningful."
A key message of WIC's year-in-review podcast was growth—not only in connection, but in vision.
This year, the group began laying the groundwork for expanding mentorship opportunities to female student-athletes, providing leadership development opportunities and connecting them with women coaches across campus. WIC also plans to welcome campus partners and community leaders into select sessions, broadening the network of women influencing the Hilltop.
"We want the next generation of women—whether they become coaches or leaders in other fields—to feel supported and represented," Seth said. "This initiative is no longer just about us. It's about investing in the future."
As WIC enters its second full year, the group continues to build on the foundation laid in 2024. The newly released podcast underscores a shared commitment: to foster meaningful mentorship, uplift each other, and strengthen the leadership footprint of women throughout West Liberty athletics.
"In just one year, we've seen what happens when women come together with intention," Seth said. "We're only scratching the surface of what this group can become."
The Women in Coaching initiative remains a testament to how leadership, collaboration, and community can transform moments of change into lasting opportunity. With a renewed vision and growing impact, WIC is poised to make an even greater difference in the year ahead.
