Cathy Nixon: heart of UVU Women’s Basketball

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Cathy Nixon is more than an ice cream-loving basketball coach; she is an inspiration. She is our hero for the week. Here is what she had to say:

Q: What is your position at UVU? How long have you been here?

A: I am the head women’s basketball coach, and I have had that position for 13 years.

Q: What made you want to coach basketball?

A: I got into coaching because I love the game of basketball. I love what life lessons it has to offer and I love people. Coaching is very challenging and I enjoy learning new things and the feeling of accomplishment when I face a challenge and overcome it. I also love being a part of a team.

Q: Where did you get your start?
A: I started playing basketball when I was on a YMCA team in Texas. I was in the first grade. I then played at Duncanville High School in Duncanville, Texas, before coming to BYU and playing there for four years. I started coaching at BYU and was an assistant there for three years.

Q: What do you feel has been your greatest success while at UVU?

A: There have been many challenges along the way, but one of the most rewarding has been to be the only program ever in the history of the NCAA to go from Junior College to Division 1 and to be able to find success so quickly. The most rewarding part of coaching is seeing the players reach their goals and potential.

Q: Besides basketball, what do you like to do in your spare time?

A: Some of my hobbies include anything I get to do with my family and friends and anything outdoors. My favorite place in the world is our family cabin, and my favorite dessert is ice cream.

Q: If there was one message you could get out to UVU students, faculty and staff, what would it be?

A: If I had a message to give to UVU students it would be to appreciate the time we have now here at UVU. It is an amazing time to be here, and we are making history. Give your best to each day and to each person you meet and don’t take yourself too seriously.