Dr. Jen Clements, assistant coach for the Shippensburg University women’s soccer team, Professor in the Department of Social Work and Gerontology and director of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program, has been selected as one of just 78 women nationwide to join the 55th class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy (WCA).
“The Women Coaches Academy is one of the most respected leadership development programs in collegiate athletics, and to be chosen as one of 78 coaches from across the country is incredibly meaningful. It feels validating, energizing and humbling all at once.” She noted that this honor serves as a reminder “to continue growing, advocating for women in sports and using my platform to support and elevate student-athletes.”
Clements’ coaching methodology is influenced by her background and studies in social work. “Social work deeply informs how I coach. Social work prioritizes relationships, human development, communication and empowerment, all of which translate directly to team culture,” she explained. She further explained that her approach to coaching is “through a holistic lens: understanding the stressors student-athletes carry and fostering environments that support emotional well-being, resilience and identity formation.” This approach helps her “connect with players, support them through challenges and build a team culture that values empathy, accountability and growth.”
Despite her busy schedule as a professor and director of the MSW program, Clements felt called to join the women’s soccer coaching staff. “I’ve always believed in showing up for students in different parts of their lives, and coaching gave me the opportunity to engage with them in a way that’s immediate, relational and incredibly rewarding,” she said.
When it comes to supporting student-athletes, Clements emphasized prioritizing performance and personal development. “My priority is helping athletes develop as competitors and as people. On the field, that means focusing on confidence, communication and consistent habits. Off the field, it means supporting mental health, time management, identity, self-advocacy and healthy relationships.” She believes that “when athletes feel seen, supported and challenged, their performance naturally elevates.”
Clements acknowledged the head coach, Rob Fulton and Carrie Michaels for inviting her to join the staff. She also thanked WECOACH, the organization behind the WCA for “championing women in sports.”
Moving forward, Clements sees her experience with the WCA as an opportunity to gain vital skills and broaden her connections. “The WCA is giving me a national network of women coaches, new leadership tools and strategies to deepen team culture and communication. I plan to bring those skills back to Shippensburg to enhance how we support our athletes.” She also plans to “continue building environments where athletes feel empowered, valued and confident in who they are.
Read the original feature at Ship Raiders – Dr. Jen Clements accepted to 55th Class of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy
