May 8, 2008

Chicago, Ill. - Coaches from the UIC Athletic Department provided a sports clinic to local directors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago on Friday, April 25.

The coaching session took place at the James R. Jordan Boys & Girls Club and was organized by UIC assistant women's basketball coach Kevin McManaman and his wife, Katie.

Each of the 22 directors in attendance were taught new fundamental exercises and games to instruct at their respective clubs.

"It's a great experience," said Kevin McManaman. "We're trying to create an opportunity for the kids and give them a chance to learn and grow."

Volleyball, soccer, and basketball were focused upon during the three-hour session.

Kevin McManaman, volleyball assistant coaches Katie Schumacher-Cawley and Kelly Colangelo, and soccer assistant coaches Aleksey Korol and Minos Vlamakis represented the UIC coaching staff. Volleyball student-athletes Christin Hunt, Emily Schaffer, Chelsea Sloan, and Taylor Szatkowski also participated in demonstrations.

Katie McManaman, human resources director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, was pleased to find the training successful and informative.

"It was great to see the directors exposed to the college level," she said. "The ideas were excellent and it provided the directors the ability to meet with some of the area's top coaches."

For many of the directors who haven't been exposed to soccer, it was a chance for them to learn some of the basic fundamentals.

"They were asking questions and being very friendly," said Korol. "Everyone was outstanding."

This event marks Kevin and Katie McManaman's second time coordinating the clinic.