The last time she stepped on William H. Hollinger court, it was as a member of the Hiram College women’s basketball team. Now, Alex Dellas ’10 returns to lead the program as the Terrier’s new head coach.
“I am very honored to return to the place that I love,” remarked Dellas of the opportunity. “I knew for my first head coach job, that I wanted to go to a place with a rich tradition and positive culture.
“When I heard about the job being open, I was eager for the opportunity to come back to Hiram. The school has a culture that I strive to be involved with. Hiram is a place that I’ve called home in the past, and it’s great to be home once again.”
After graduating from Hiram in 2010, Dellas earned her Master’s Degree from Kent State University and has spent the last five seasons in the coaching ranks.
Most recently, Dellas served for two seasons as the assistant coach at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio.
Dellas helped the Spartans to 13 victories in 2016-17 and oversaw the development of five All-University Athletic Association honorees. In addition she coached First-Team All-Conference and Third-Team All-Region forward Kara Hageman.
Prior to her time with the Spartans, Dellas made her first coaching stop at Williams College, helping the Ephs to 67 wins in three seasons.
During her time on the Williams’ staff, Dellas helped coach the team to three NCAA tournament appearances, including a berth in the Final Four, where the team posted a third-place finish, nationally.
Getting the most out of her players, Dellas mentored two All-Americans while at Williams, while also coaching the NESCAC Player of the Year.
“One thing that Hiram fans should know about my program is that I am going to constantly bring energy,” remarked Dellas. “I want to create an environment where our athletes feel safe, but also know that they are going to be pushed mentally and physically. I am excited to help push them to grow and to give them the tools needed to reach their goals.”
A second-generation Terrier, Dellas, whose father also attended Hiram, appeared in 101 career games. A four-year letterwinner, she appeared in at least 24 games in every season, totaling over 500 points throughout her career.
“When I was an undergrad, I loved the community atmosphere at Hiram,” stated Dellas. “As a student-athlete, it was great to have my professors and fellow students in the stands cheering me on. There is a sense of pride and community here that makes me really excited to come back.”
Dellas will look to continue the upward trajectory of the Terrier women’s basketball program that saw the team reach new highs in both total wins (17) and NCAC victories (nine) last season. Hiram returns a trio of starters to the floor from that team, including All-NCAC selection Kaylee Shockley, as well as seniors Kayla Yost and Allison Vannoy.
“I believe that this program’s success is going to be determined by recruiting efforts and team chemistry,” stated Dellas. “We will build our team chemistry through both on, and off the court efforts, and build our current roster into well-rounded players.
“Having talked with the team, I know there is a lot of energy and excitement for the upcoming season. This is an incredible opportunity and I am looking forward to challenging our players to reach the highest standards that our program can set.”
Photo Courtesy Hiram Athletics
http://www.hiramterriers.com/sports/wbkb/2017-18/releases/20171002pq2ena
