The College of St. Scholastica has announced Jared Drake as the new head coach for its men's basketball team. With a strong background in player development and an emphasis on personal growth, Coach Drake brings extensive experience from both collegiate and professional levels. His journey includes roles at various institutions, marked by achievements such as leading teams to championship appearances and mentoring standout athletes. Raised in a basketball-oriented family, Drake combines his passion for the sport with educational accomplishments, including degrees in Exercise Science and Coaching Education.
Drake's approach focuses not only on competitive success but also on nurturing well-rounded student-athletes. His career highlights include significant contributions to programs at Philander Smith College and the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith. Athletic Director Jessica Cherry expresses confidence in Drake's ability to elevate the program through vision and dedication. In turn, Drake emphasizes building a legacy centered around excellence, character, and unity within the campus community.
Inspiring Leadership Through Development
Jared Drake's appointment signifies a commitment to fostering holistic growth among student-athletes. Known for his meticulous approach to scouting and recruiting, Drake excels in creating personalized training regimens that enhance individual skills while strengthening team dynamics. His tenure at UAFS showcased these talents, where he guided players to conference accolades and orchestrated surprising victories against top-ranked opponents. Moreover, his expertise extends beyond tactical coaching, focusing on developing athletes' mental resilience and leadership qualities.
Throughout his career, Drake has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to cultivating authentic relationships with players. This philosophy stems from his upbringing under the mentorship of his father, Leonard Drake, a seasoned Division I coach. Drawing inspiration from this formative influence, Jared pursued a rigorous academic path, earning credentials in Exercise Science and Information Management Systems. His professional journey began at Robert Morris College, followed by stints in developmental leagues and volunteer coaching positions at alma mater institutions. These experiences honed his abilities in strategic planning, film analysis, and offensive/defensive concept innovation. By integrating these elements, Drake aims to establish a robust framework for success at St. Scholastica.
A Vision for Lasting Excellence
Under Drake's leadership, The College of St. Scholastica anticipates transformative changes in its men's basketball program. Emphasizing a dual focus on competitive performance and personal development, Drake seeks to instill values of toughness, integrity, and pride in every athlete. His collaborative approach resonates deeply with Athletic Director Jessica Cherry, who recognizes the potential impact of his bold vision on the broader campus environment. Together, they aim to unite students, faculty, and local communities through shared goals and aspirations.
Drake's previous successes underscore his capacity to lead effectively. At Philander Smith College, he collaborated closely with NBA veteran Todd Day to secure a conference championship appearance and receive prestigious coaching honors. Leveraging insights gained during this period, Drake plans to implement innovative strategies tailored to St. Scholastica's unique context. His Master of Science in Coaching Education further equips him to address diverse challenges and opportunities within collegiate athletics. By prioritizing long-term sustainability alongside immediate achievements, Drake envisions constructing a legacy that transcends mere wins and losses. His enthusiasm for engaging stakeholders across all levels ensures a cohesive effort toward achieving greatness in both competition and character formation.