Sports

Logos photo by Nick Pilgrim Kelli Terrell (left), new head women’s basketball coach, works with the team in practice while team members (left to right) Brittany Robinson and Courtney Chrencik watch.Terrell will take over the program after serving as an assistant to current coach John Oertel.

Terrell to lead women’s team

“Starting something new is always scary, but I’m excited to see how far my knowledge of basketball can take me.” - Kelli Terrell, NIACC’s new women’s basketball coach

Cassie Christianson
Staff Reporter

Kelli Terrell, three-year assistant coach for NIACC women’s basketball and former NIACC athlete, is next in line to take over the program after John Oertel recently announced his retirement.

“Starting something new is always scary, but I’m excited to see how far my knowledge of basketball can take me,” Terrell said.

Terrell, originally from Peterson, Iowa, came to NIACC to play basketball under Oertel. Little did she know within a few years she would be coaching by his side.

After NIACC, Terrell worked as a student manager for the women’s basketball team at University of Iowa which provided an opportunity that “sealed the deal” about her interest and future in coaching.

Terrell said she’s always had a love for basketball and sports, in general. She said she always knew she wanted to do something within that field.

Transitioning from being coached by Oertel to coaching with him was a smooth one she said because she was already familiar with his style of basketball and methods of coaching.

She is currently studying to get her master’s degree in sports psychology through Minnesota State University.

Terrell said she considers psychology very important in basketball.

“Having skill is good, but mental game enhances those skills,” Terrell said.

Though her coaching tactics may be different then her predecessor, Terrell said she has learned a lot from Oertel.

She said Oertel has taught her to be prepared, whether it is for a game or for practice.

She said she’s also learned the importance of scouting and getting a leg up on the opponent.

Terrell focuses on the details of the game. She said she plans to concentrate on fundamentals next year, as well as positivity and respect.

“I just want to establish the right culture and atmosphere for the athletes, so they can have the best experience possible,” Terrell said.

But that doesn’t mean there won’t be hard work.

Terrell said they will continue to be a running team. She wants to push an intense, fast pace type of basketball - one that is fun to watch.