Franklin – Coach Audrey Taylor

Coaching, Player Development
November 11, 2024

Goal Setting x Journaling

As a experienced basketball coach, I’ve seen firsthand how journaling can be a game-changer for athletes at every level of,...

Coaching, Journal
June 30, 2025

While the Community Celebrated, I Was Learning to Breathe Again

I’ve never really spoken about this out loud. I’ve carried it quietly. Prayed through it. Worked through it. And in,...

Coaching Journal

The Lady Behind the Photo

Embrace your passion, own your strength, and defy the stereotypes.

- Coaching, Journal
- June 30, 2025
While the Community Celebrated, I Was Learning to Breathe Again

I’ve never really spoken about this out loud. I’ve carried it quietly. Prayed through it. Worked through it. And in some ways, I’m still working through it. But I believe it’s time. I remember the season my life turned sideways, the world kept spinning — but I stood still. It started August 2018.My father passed away.He was my guy. My sideline presence. The man who never missed a game, even if he was running between two homes and juggling his own life. I used to look for him in the bleachers before every tip-off — and he was always there. Always cheering, even on my worst days. That’s the way he loved me. But life didn’t slow down. Basketball fall league had started, and I leaned in, because the gym was always my safe haven. We started the season, set our goal to get back to Tournament of Champions and win. We were deep in the middle of the season. My girls were focused, determined, still nursing the sting of the previous year’s loss in the TOC finals. We set high standards in practices, treated every game like it was win or go home— but then the tragic loss of,...
- Journal
- November 10, 2025
My Best Rival Became My Best Mentor

I can barely believe I’m writing this, but it’s true: I’m joining the Legendary Coach Mary Klinger’s (Rutgers Preparatory School) staff this season. What a meaningful, full-circle moment. For twelve years, Mary and I stood on opposite sidelines, locked in a continuous state of pressure and rivalry. She extended her hand early in my career; for that I’m forever thankful. We had our on-court battles, but the mutual respect was always there. To go from that level of competition to this level of connection—it’s the ultimate victory. I am incredibly thankful for her grace, her friendship, and her trust. Mary is truly a legendary leader, not just because of all of her accolades and accomplishments, but because she actively extends her hand to support fellow women coaches. Her wisdom and support as I’ve navigated my own path have been invaluable. This whole transition has taught me the greatest lesson in leadership: true strength isn’t about winning against someone; it’s about reaching back to anchor them in their own becoming. Unraveling to Remain This incredible new chapter ties right into the deep inner work I’ve been doing over the last couple of years. I spent too long confusing who I was,...
- Coaching, Journal
- August 21, 2023
The Lady Behind the Photo

I have a story to share with you—a story about a young Black woman on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and unapologetic Black excellence. So, allow me to recount a part of the journey that forever changed the way I viewed myself. Picture this: it’s game day. The gym is alive with energy, the squeak of sneakers on the court, and the roar of fans in the stands. For me, this is home—a place where I am in my element, commanding the sidelines with purpose and passion, guiding a group of determined young women to greatness.