Buffalo, N.Y. – D’Youville University has welcomed Erin Gibbons as the new assistant coach for the women’s basketball team, announced by head coach Kelly Broderick.
Broderick expressed her excitement, highlighting Gibbons’ extensive background in coaching and playing at the Division II level. "Her energy and eagerness to learn will greatly benefit our program," Broderick said. Gibbons’ connections in Pennsylvania are expected to enhance recruiting efforts, while her experience in player development and strategies will contribute significantly to the team’s success.
Gibbons joins D’Youville after serving as the assistant coach at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania for two seasons. There, she helped guide the team to a 23-33 record and coached standout players, including All-American Emily Chmiel.
Before her stint at East Stroudsburg, Gibbons was a Sports Information Graduate Assistant at Shippensburg University, where she earned a master’s degree in Strategic Communication. Her academic background is solid; she also holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Shippensburg.
Gibbons was no stranger to success as a player. At Shippensburg, she was part of a team that clinched the PSAC East Championship twice and made it to the NCAA Atlantic Region Semifinals in her final season. Before that, she played at Mansfield University, where she secured her spot as one of the top three-point shooters in the school’s history.
This hiring comes at a time when women’s sports are gaining more recognition. According to a recent survey by the Women’s Sports Foundation, participation in women’s sports at the collegiate level has increased by 56% over the last decade. This shift reflects a growing support system for female athletes and coaches alike.
In a world increasingly focused on inclusivity, Gibbons’ arrival is another step toward fostering a strong women’s basketball program at D’Youville. Her diverse experiences, both on and off the court, position her well to inspire the next generation of players.