Miami Dade College women's basketball coach inspires next generation on and off court
MIAMI — Miami Dade College women's basketball coach Susan Summons is making history and inspiring the next generation on and off the court.
"I've always been focused on creating champions not just for a minute, not just for an hour, not just for a day, but for a lifetime," Summons said.
Summons is in her 39th year of coaching the MDC women's basketball team. She recently achieved a historic milestone in women's sports with 700 wins among active basketball coaches. She is the only Black woman in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) to do it.
Summons' players said that she helps them develop confidence, resilience and a sense of purpose.
"For me, in my eyes, she's more so a mother figure," said Shameir Quimby. "She's always there spiritually, mentally, physically. I could call her at two or three in the morning and she'll pick up. Whatever I need."
A former professor, Summons was recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Sports Educators in America by the Institute for International Sport.
Her commitment to education and sports has earned her seven Hall of Fame honors, underscoring her profound impact. Summons said she loves what she does.
"It's passion," she said. "It's passion that drives me. It's Passion that inspires me."
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