Shanice Turner
Shanice Turner came to Worcester with a strong background in basketball, having played for England at Under 17 level and been selected for the Under 18 Women’s squad. Her professional playing career includes time with Gloucester Queens in the Women’s British Basketball League, and she has been a key player for the Worcester Wolves Women’s team since 2016, where she now serves as captain and Assistant Coach.
Her coaching journey began during her time at university, when an injury kept her off the court. Rather than stepping back, Shanice stepped into a leadership role, coaching the University’s Women’s Basketball 2nd team. That experience sparked a deeper interest in coaching, leading her to work with regional and national youth teams, including England’s Under 15s Women’s squad and the England talent pathway for players aged 13 to 15.
“I’m proud, it means all the hard work has paid off,” she says. “It’s more about the children than the status—being able to work with kids at such a high level that understand the game. Being able to take my coaching to the next level is also an exciting process and learn from coaches of such a high level.”
Shanice’s academic journey is just as impressive. She completed a degree in Sports Coaching Science, followed by a Master’s in Coaching, and then a PGCE in Secondary PE. She now works as a PE teacher at Codsall Community High School, combining her love of sport with a passion for education.
“There’s certain sacrifices I’ve had to make to make it work, but it’s 100 per cent worth it,” she says. “It doesn’t feel like a chore. I really enjoy it and all the girls I coach are lovely. Being able to pass on what I know and trying to improve the next generation of players is both rewarding and exciting.”
Throughout her time at Worcester, Shanice was supported by the University’s Sports Scholarship scheme and later through Worcester Wolves scholarships. She credits the staff and community for helping her balance her studies with high-level sport.
“I take that attitude into my teaching as well,” she adds. “I find it important to get to know the kids and help them develop not only as players but as people. I take that philosophy into both teaching and coaching.”
Shanice’s story shows what’s possible when students are given the opportunity to grow in every direction. Whether on the court, in the classroom, or leading the next generation, she continues to inspire through her commitment and care.
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