When the president of Connecticut Sun, Jennifer Rizzotti, grew, she aspired to become a doctor.
“I was not one of those girls who thought I could play in the NBA, so I did not actually think that I would play basketball beyond university,” said Rizzotti. “I liked biology, so there was a section where I thought I would be a doctor, then I went to scientific research more. I really have no idea what I would have done this path. »»
The path that Rizzotti made the job led her to a basketball life. She played in the UCONN women’s basketball team and was the starting point of their first national championship team in 1995.
Rizzotti also won the WNBA championships in 1999 and 2000. After her player career, she was head coach of the Women’s basketball teams at Hartford University (1999-2016) and George Washington University (2016-2021).
Now Rizzotti is president of Connecticut Sun at a time when WNBA and female sports are soaring in popularity.
Rizzotti is the woman of the year of Connecticut.
Who paved the way for you?
I would say that all the women who played basketball and fought to offer opportunities and have the Law on title IX adopt. When I think of the number of women who did not have scholarships, had no shoes, had no uniforms, had no room to play. Each of these women played a decisive role in the growth of basketball in a place where I was able to benefit. I think it’s something that has always pushed me as a player and as a woman in sport. I want to continue to open the way for the game continues to improve for the next generation and the generations to come after that.
What is your most proud moment?
Personally, have my two boys. They are definitely the pride of my life, Holden and Conor, 19 and 16 years old. A large part of what I do as a mother is to be a good model for them, to show them what women can do in life, what hard work, passion and dedication and treat people can do for you in your life. I try to give them a good example.
I think that as a person in basketball, it’s hard to say. I had so many huge moments that immediately come to mind. Win a national championship in 1995, being an academic All-American, which I thought that I was the best in school and basketball as a year. And then, win a gold medal in Tokyo as an assistant coach of the Olympic team. I think all these things have jumped in my mind like things I really am, really proud.
More: Sherry Pocknett is the woman in Connecticut of the year 2024
Do you have a lowest moment?
I don’t know. I feel like I was really lucky in my life. I was released to GW (George Washington) three and a half years ago. Maybe that day, I felt pretty low, but it opened the door to this work.
What is your definition of courage?
I think my definition of courage is to do what you think, whether or not it is a popular choice or what everyone expects from you.
Is there a guiding principle or a mantra you say to yourself?
I think for me, my director principle is that I want to surround myself with good people, no matter where I am.
Who are you looking at?
My parents to start. I did not know how workers and competitive they were until I became an adult and that I only realize the parents of anyone else are as workers and competitive as mine.
I watched Geno (Auriemma). I always do it. The way he maintained this level of success for four decades is obviously more than being good to train basketball. He returns to the establishment of relations. It amounts to treating people properly and it comes down to knowing how to motivate people to be their best.
How do you overcome adversity?
I actually think that I thrive under stress. I think it comes down to make sure you have good people around you who are there to support you and never be afraid to take up a challenge.
What advice would you give to your young person?
I was probably telling myself to stay faithful to what I was doing and follow my instinct.
This article originally appeared on the bulletin: Women of the United States: Jennifer Rizzotti from Connecticut Sun
