Coach Jessica
Jessica, a 2009 graduate and Girls Basketball Alumni of Thornton Fractional South in Lansing, IL, spent her four impactful years on the court showcasing her athletic ability as a 5’6” power forward with a 43” vertical. Her high school career was marked by impressive stats, averaging 11pts and 10 rebounds per game. Jessica’s performance provided her with the opportunity to attend the following universities on athletic scholarships: Quincy University (NCAA DII) Ferris State University (NCAA DII), Augustana College (NCAA DIII) and Morningside University (NAIA DII). However opting to pursue a career in information technology, Jessica chose to channel her passion in technology over a collegiate basketball path.
Jessica embarked her academic journey at SIUe, initially majoring in Civil Engineering. While there she immersed herself in the world of basketball training, spending two impactful years with the Girl’s basketball team as part of the training staff.
In 2014, Jessica started contributing to AAU teams D.A.Y.O.N.E. and Southtown Pride, coaching 6th-8th Grade boys. Her dedication led her to earn certificates in refereeing and coaching from the IHSA in 2015.
Jessica’s coaching journey reached new heights when she became an assistant coach for the Leading Lady Elite 16U program, securing the Orlando Youth Basketball of America (YBOA) Championship in 2016. Jessica also led the D.A.Y.O.N.E. 6th -8th grade team to a remarkable championship victory with an 11-1 record in 2016.
In 2017 Jessica founded the Illinois Thunder Girls Basketball Program, focusing on recruiting high school girls and fostering their growth both on and off the court.
Jessica’s overarching goal is to make a positive impact on her local community, mentoring young athletes, honing their basketball skills, and paving the way for their future success in collegiate basketball
Coach RAY
Bio Coming soon……
Coach Jah
Bio Coming Soon…
Coach Charles
Coach Charles is currently a sophomore at Illinois State University majoring in marketing. Coach Charles is a Calumet City native and has been coaching as an assistant for 7 years. In 2015 Coach Charles was the assistant coach for St. John Lutheran School in Lansing where the 8th grade boys team took 1st place. Coach Charles’ goal is to encourage the youth to grow in all aspects of life, on and off the court.
JR Coach Eric ‘Ej’ Spivey
Bio Coming Soon….