By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Bishop’s Gaiters women’s soccer assistant coach Isidora Pekez has been selected as one of 18 participants in the 2024 U SPORTS Female Apprentice Coach Program. Funded by Sport Canada, this initiative aims to bolster female representation in coaching roles across Canadian universities by pairing recent graduates with experienced head coaches in various sports.
According to Bishop’s University’s (BU) website, since its inception in the 2020-2021 season, the program has sought to provide women with opportunities in coaching by equipping them with professional development tools and mentorship. “It gives opportunities for female coaches who are kind of new to this environment,” Pekez said in a recent interview. Participants are expected to engage in at least 20 per cent of their development activities through conferences and courses, fostering an environment of continued learning.
Pekez, originally from Edmonton, began her coaching journey just over a year ago in August 2023. Before transitioning into coaching, she spent four years playing in Kentucky before transferring to BU, where she played for a year. “My eyes were always set on playing pro, so I never knew that my passion for soccer could send me to coaching,” she said.
Her role in the program is seen as a significant step in her coaching journey, offering her the chance to connect with other female coaches, share ideas, and build valuable skills. “For me, the biggest thing is connecting with different people and different perspectives,” she said, adding that exposure to various coaching methods from across the country is beneficial.
