Now on year 20 at Northview as a teacher and a coach, Rose Antrim made her return to Northview after graduating in 1984 and coaching college basketball for ten years.
“I did not set out to become a teacher but I loved coaching and working with kids so it just kind of fit,” Antrim said.
Throughout high school, she played volleyball, basketball and softball. Then, she continued on to play basketball at Grand Valley State University. There she was a conference champion and a four time All American Athlete.
“Mr. Thomas, who was the athletic director 20 years ago, had called me while I was coaching at Central Michigan University and asked me if I wanted to come back home to teach and coach,” Antrim said. “I knew God wanted me to continue coaching and working with kids.”
Since then, she took over the position as the girls’ varsity basketball coach. Her team loves the program because of the sport and also because of the experienced mentor they have.
“When I first met Mrs. Antrim I was extremely intimidated by her,” junior Kara Kieras said. “Now that I know her better and have been on her team, she no longer intimidates me and is a strong role model in my life.”
Kieras has known Antrim since her freshman year and has had her as both a teacher and a coach.
“She has made me a much better basketball player,” Kieras said. “However, there are also all the lessons she teaches that can be taken off the court. Things like how to be a good teammate, the qualities of a servant leader, to stand up for what you believe in, and to have confidence in everything you do.”
“Our staff is working very hard to create a hard working, winning culture across the board,” Antrim said. “As for this years team, they are very special.”
The team is currently 10-1 and first place in their conference. While they have impressive record, Antrim is even more proud of her eight seniors on the team.
She has is sad to see them leave, but is excited for their futures off of the court and out of the classroom.
“She leaves a huge impact on the program and she puts a lot of work into making improvements for everyone’s benefit,” Kieras said.
