The USD Coyotes Women’s Basketball Head Coach Carrie Eighmey Talks Racism and Diversity at USD
In an exclusive interview, University of South Dakota (USD) Coyotes Women’s Basketball Head Coach Carrie Eighmey opened up about the challenges and ongoing efforts to combat racism within the program, while emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all athletes.
As one of the leading female coaches in NCAA Division I basketball, Eighmey has not only made a name for herself as a tactician on the court but has also become a powerful voice in advocating for equality, diversity, and respect in college athletics. In light of recent discussions surrounding racial issues in sports, Eighmey shared her perspective on the significance of confronting racism head-on, both within her team and in the broader community.
A Commitment to Inclusion and Understanding
Eighmey’s approach to coaching goes beyond teaching basketball skills; she sees herself as a mentor and leader who must guide her players through challenges that extend beyond the sport. “It’s not just about what happens on the court. We’re trying to build young women who are strong, confident, and aware of the world around them,” Eighmey explained. “Racism is an issue that transcends sports, and it’s something that we need to address as a team, as a program, and as a university.”
Eighmey has worked hard to foster an environment of inclusivity within the USD Coyotes Women’s Basketball program. This includes encouraging open dialogue, supporting initiatives aimed at raising awareness, and promoting social responsibility among the players. While Eighmey acknowledges that racism is still a pervasive issue in many aspects of life, she remains resolute in her belief that sports can play a transformative role in addressing these challenges.
“Basketball has always been a place where people of different backgrounds come together, and that’s something I truly believe in,” said Eighmey. “But just because we play a team sport doesn’t mean we don’t have individual experiences and struggles that we need to discuss and acknowledge.”
Facing the Reality of Racism in Sports
While the USD Coyotes Women’s Basketball team prides itself on being a close-knit group, Eighmey shared that members of the team have occasionally faced challenges related to racism, both on and off the court. These experiences have highlighted the need for a continued commitment to addressing racial issues within college athletics.
“We’ve had instances where players have felt the sting of racial bias, whether it’s from opponents, fans, or even within the team itself,” Eighmey revealed. “As a coach, it’s my responsibility to create a space where players can talk openly about their experiences. We don’t shy away from tough conversations. We tackle them head-on.”
The team has initiated several conversations around racism, diversity, and allyship, making it clear that the program does not tolerate any form of discrimination. Eighmey has also partnered with campus resources, including the university’s diversity office and community leaders, to ensure that players are supported and that issues of racism are taken seriously.
“We’ve had multiple discussions as a team about how to recognize and respond to racism,” Eighmey said. “It’s not just about reacting to incidents, but also being proactive in educating ourselves and others about how we can create a better environment for everyone.”
Using Basketball as a Platform for Change
Eighmey believes that sports, and basketball in particular, have the power to influence change. Her team has used its platform to raise awareness around social justice issues, often participating in initiatives designed to promote diversity and inclusion both within the university and in the wider community. The Coyotes have organized events, guest speakers, and even social media campaigns to spotlight important issues.
“We’ve seen firsthand how sports can bring people together from different walks of life. We want to leverage that power to be a positive force in the community,” Eighmey explained. “Whether it’s through team discussions, community outreach, or just being visible and vocal on social media, we want to make it clear that we stand against racism and support equality.”
Eighmey also emphasizes the importance of representation, both in leadership and on the court. As a female head coach, she understands the unique challenges women face in sports, and she is especially committed to fostering diversity in the coaching ranks. Eighmey actively mentors young women of color who aspire to become coaches, offering guidance and sharing her own experiences as a leader in a male-dominated field.
The Road Ahead: Education, Allyship, and Action
Despite the strides that have been made, Eighmey is quick to acknowledge that there is still much work to be done. “We can’t be complacent,” she said. “The conversation around racism in sports, and society at large, must continue. We need to keep educating ourselves, be willing to learn, and be ready to take action when necessary.”
The USD Coyotes Women’s Basketball program’s commitment to confronting racism, fostering an inclusive culture, and standing up for social justice is a reflection of Eighmey’s broader vision for the team. She hopes that her players not only excel on the court but also become leaders who make a positive impact in their communities long after they leave USD.
As the nation grapples with issues of racial inequality, Eighmey’s efforts serve as a reminder that sports can be more than just entertainment; they can be a powerful vehicle for change. Through her leadership, the USD Coyotes Women’s Basketball team is not only striving for success on the court but also working to create a more just and inclusive world beyond it.
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