We had an opportunity to sit down with one of our top-notch coaches, Dr. Deborah Stroman, aka Doc as we call her at BLSA. From her playing days at UVA to her coaching days at UNC, Brant Lake Sports Academy is lucky to have her in our presence.
When you’re not at BLSA, what do you do?
I stay active mentally, spiritually, and physically. I am a professor at UNC-Chapel Hill (School of Global Public Health) and as an entrepreneur (sport business and racial equity educator). Visit www.dstroman.com for a deeper dive on my life.
I try to spark curiosity and confidence in youth. I believe everyone has creativity in them but often lack the setting to nurture that gift. Sport is an ideal platform to learn new skills and to express oneself as a great athlete, a great teammate or a great coach. You don’t have to be an elite athlete to enjoy the benefits of exercise and team support. I am a strong believer in the power of a hug. We can all cheer one another on as we strive to achieve our own particular goals.
Do you have any hobbies/how do you have fun?
BLSA is a special time for me to escape the demands of work and to do personal soul searching while admiring the beauty of the camp setting. Most importantly, it is a wonderful time to be with awesome counselors and campers. We all come to BLSA to make new friends, support each other, and have fun. The counselors are all committed to professionalism, a “fun and safe first” policy, and teaching at the best level for the camper. Being connected to the tradition is another great blessing!
When you’re not at BLSA, what do you do?
I stay active mentally, spiritually, and physically. I am a professor at UNC-Chapel Hill (School of Global Public Health) and as an entrepreneur (sport business and racial equity educator). Visit www.dstroman.com for a deeper dive on my life.
You mentor children in many ways. Can you tell us a little about how you teach through sport?
I try to spark curiosity and confidence in youth. I believe everyone has creativity in them but often lack the setting to nurture that gift. Sport is an ideal platform to learn new skills and to express oneself as a great athlete, a great teammate or a great coach. You don’t have to be an elite athlete to enjoy the benefits of exercise and team support. I am a strong believer in the power of a hug. We can all cheer one another on as we strive to achieve our own particular goals.Do you have any hobbies/how do you have fun?
I enjoy my church activities, political discussions, riding my bike, playing golf, and reading. I don’t shoot hoops
anymore, which is a bummer. Sadly, I am too competitive to play basketball for fun.
How has BLSA influenced you personally?
BLSA is a special time for me to escape the demands of work and to do personal soul searching while admiring the beauty of the camp setting. Most importantly, it is a wonderful time to be with awesome counselors and campers. We all come to BLSA to make new friends, support each other, and have fun. The counselors are all committed to professionalism, a “fun and safe first” policy, and teaching at the best level for the camper. Being connected to the tradition is another great blessing!Tell us your favorites:
Sports Team – Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia 76ers, UNC and UVA sports teams.
Food – Italian and all things vegetarian
Place you have ever been – S. Africa, Germany, Ireland, and Caribbean.
Song to work out to – Michael Jackson songs and gospel artists