North Carolina Central University announced Janet N. Robinson as the new assistant coach with the women’s basketball program on Thursday, Sept. 22. Robinson joined the staff with more than two years of coaching experience and more than three years of physical fitness experience.
“I’m excited and honored for the opportunity to work with such a knowledgeable staff,” said Robinson. “As a native of Durham, I’m pleased to have the opportunity to give back to my community.”
Robinson rises to the ranks of coaching after one year as the director of basketball operations at NCCU. As the director of basketball operations during the 2010-11 campaign, Robinson managed travel, facility use, team meals, community service projects, marketing activities and game day operations.
Prior to entering the realm of collegiate athletics, Robinson was the assistant women’s basketball coach at Riverside High School (Durham, N.C.) for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 seasons. Robinson was assigned to guard development, and more specifically the techniques of shooting.
“Janet will be a great asset to the coaching staff,” said NCCU head coach Joli Robinson, “her competiveness and drive will bring more passion to the program.”
Along with her passion for coaching, Robinson has a passion for physical fitness and nutritional well-being. Since 2008, she has been a fitness instructor with UNC Wellness Center in Chapel Hill, N.C. Robinson began with UNC Wellness Center as a cardiac rehab fitness instructor, where she mentored cardiac patients in a one-on-one setting, assisted with the daily operations of the clinic, and instructed patients through aerobic exercise, to encourage strength and conditioning and balance and coordination.
Robinson, who holds two bachelor’s degrees, earned her first bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation studies with a concentration in sports medicine from Winston-Salem State in 2006. During her matriculation, Robinson was a member of the Lady Rams basketball program.
While wearing number 35, Robinson appeared in 109 games and started in 82 contests for the Lady Rams. In four years of play, she was named WSSU Women’s Basketball Most Improved Player (2003-04), placed on the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Top 25 scoring list two years in a row and recorded a career-high 22 points on February 1, 2005 at Fayetteville State University.
“My playing experience at WSSU has molded me into fearless competitor,” said Robinson. “I have learned the importance of team work, respecting other’s differences and strengths, the importance of communication and motivation and unity for the achievement of a common goal.”
Following her matriculation at WSSU, Robinson obtained her second bachelor’s degree in physical education with a concentration in exercise sports science in 2008 from NCCU.
Continuing to grow academically, Robinson began pursuing her master’s degree in athletic administration in 2008, also from NCCU.
“I am excited and optimistic about the upcoming season,” said Robinson as she begins her first year of collegiate coaching. “I am so excited about continuing the NCCU legacy into the MEAC.”
Robinson resides in Durham, N.C.
