Supported by Associate Head Coach Albert Ziwa, Milligan makes the jump to senior coaching for the first time, while continuing to be a key part of the senior playing group for the Wolves.
Having previously been a head coach in the Wolves junior programme, Milligan will amalgamate her new appointment with her ongoing role as the head coach of Oaklands College’s WEABL team, as Oaklands look to shape an improved pathway for the country’s elite junior talent.
Milligan is part of the Basketball England Leadership and Performance Programme, a successful endeavour by the governing body and UK Coaching to support the development of influential and upcoming female coaches.
So delighted for @LaurenMilligan6 breaking new ground.
— Jenny Coe (@jennycoady10) September 2, 2021
Lauren has just finished our @_UKCoaching @bballengland Leadership & Programme.
We’re fully beside you Lauren and excited for what the year will bring. #amazing #nextsteps #network #connection #leadership #performance https://t.co/y3fDdu2rj6
“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to coach and lead the WBBL team into the new season,” she said. “This opportunity allows me to continue my journey in coaching whilst still being able to play, something I’m not ready to give up just yet.
“It will be a new experience to be a player/coach, but with the support of everyone at Oaklands I’m ready for the challenge. I’m excited to work alongside Albert and together provide a platform for players to showcase their talents at the highest playing level in the UK.”
Ziwa will compliment Lauren as the WBBL Associate Head Coach. The Oaklands Academy and junior Wolves coach will step up after impressing during his various roles at the Academy.
He has risen through positions in the programme including EABL lead coach, U16 head coach, performance analyst and most recently WBBL assistant coach. Albert also has experience in the regional program having been part of East Aspire as well as running his own community coaching business.
He said: “I am excited about the next challenge, working with Lauren and the continued opportunity to keep developing as a coach along the way.”
The team will as ever be supported by departing Head Coach Lee Ryan, who remains in post as Head of Performance Basketball at Oaklands College.
“The appointments of Lauren and Albert are timely and perfect for our progression as a program,” said Ryan. “They are embedded in the family at Oaklands, so share the same values and aspirations, but come in with fresh ideas and a hunger to elevate what is already a strong platform for junior athletes.
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