TESTIMONY
Athletes in Action
Heather had a nearly career ending injury back in 1993, that forced her to re-evaluate her purpose and her character. With an Olympic dream on hold, Heather rehabilitated a nagging injury over the first five years of her eight year pro basketball career.
During that time, a Christian sports ministry called her to play. Athlete's in Action, based in Ohio, travelled the country playing top Division 1 Universities while players shared their love of God. They played a grueling schedule of 25 games in 30 days over 15 different states (travelling by bus!). Heather saw faith grow into action using basketball (and sports in general), as a platform to share faith, and reach hurting souls with God's love.
Integrity Hoops Academy was formed with one mission: to teach youth the skills needed to succeed on and off the court, ( basketball or volleyball). Players are challenged to grow in character through biblical principles that are simple: listening to authority, working hard, following directions and treating others with mutual respect.
IHA's vision was developed in this order: PRECISION, PRACTICE, PLAY. Players need to be precise about what they practice so they can play more successfully. Hence, the fundamental skills taught are not just offense (dribbling, passing, shooting the basketball / setting, hitting and serving the volleyball) or defense (blocking out, rebounding OR blocking, saving in vball). More importantly, they are values like: Industriousness, Friendship, Loyalty, Cooperation, and Enthusiasm (the base of the legendary John Wooden's "Pyramid of Success"). At the top of success are the tenets of Faith and Patience. (copyright John Wooden)
Ultimately, the success of each individual is realized as they work hard toward their goals, with patience, dedication and faith that what they do will pave the way for success on and off of the court. Facilitating that success, is Coach Heather's hope for each player who attends the academy. She is grateful for the family, mentors, coaches, teachers, pastors, players and others that taught her so much, and excited to share that experience with the younger generation!
