Bio

Dee Channer has over 25 years of coaching experience across various levels, including high school, college, and university. Since 2016, I have been pleased to serve as the head coach of the Conestoga women's basketball team, leveraging my experience as a former varsity athlete at Wilfrid Laurier University (2001-2005) to guide players to success.

In the past, Coach Channer has worked for the Black Coaches Association as the Community Indigenous coordinator and as a mentor in the Canadian Black Coaches Mentorship program. As an associate director and educator at Rising Stars Athletics & Education, she focused on youth development through a blend of sports and education, with particular attention to the surrounding school regions and the First Nation communities of Northern Canada. As an advocate for holistic development and as an indigenous educator, Dee is deeply passionate about indigenous education, striving to promote cultural understanding and empowerment within indigenous communities. These initiatives represent just one aspect of her commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of athletes and youth.

Coaching Philosophy

As a coach, my philosophy centers around the holistic development of my athletes. I believe in helping my players grow both on and off the court. I expect them to work hard, be honest, and always strive to improve. I make sure they know what I expect from them, not just in basketball, but also in life. My goal is to prepare them to be successful and responsible individuals, both in the game and in the real world.

What does being a Condor mean to you as we enter the “Striving to Soar” era?

As Condor Athletics enters the "Striving to Soar" era, coaching for the school holds significant importance to me. This era perfectly aligns with the values of our coaching staff and team. We strive to cultivate an atmosphere of respect, trust, safety, and well-being within our team. Recognizing our players primarily as students, we aim to foster their growth in all areas: academically, athletically, and socially. We foster a sense of belonging where every player feels appreciated and accepted, promoting openness and teamwork. Through adherence to these principles, we facilitate our team's success both on and off the field, equipping them with the tools necessary for their future.