April 1, 2010
SEASIDE PAL
SEASIDE, Calif. – Cal State Monterey Bay women's basketball coach #Renee Jimenez#, spoke at the Police Activities League (PAL) Banquet in Seaside, Monday, Mar. 29, in front of 500 guests, offering words of encouragement to young basketball teams and coaches.
A product of the PAL organization, Jimenez had dreams and aspirations of her own. She dreamed about playing college basketball and appearing on TV. Her dream became a reality when she played basketball for San Francisco State from 2001-2004.
Jimenez believes in encouraging kids and players because having someone believe in them can give them the confidence to go farther than one thinks and have the ability to follow their dreams.
Speaking directly to the players, Jimenez said, “Every single one of you has something your good at, every single on of you has something to offer and you have a responsibility to yourself to find out what that is."
Jimenez spoke straight to the parents and coaches as well. Telling them, “Don't just teach them about basketball, teach them the little lessons, saying please and thank you. Talk to them about school and how important it is to their lives.”
In January, Jimenez and the Otters held a free clinic in association with PAL for 20 youth players. The Otters took the athletes through both defensive and offensive drills, then played 5-on-5 with the kids.
