Hi, I’m Elsebeth Birman.
I am the founder of Hoops Through Life. I educate and guide female athletes through their athletic journey.
I have spent my whole life in sports, primarily focusing on basketball. I grew up in the DC Metropolitan area and was raised by parents who immigrated to the United States and knew very little about the world of sports. I played basketball at St. John's College High School in DC (‘09). Fortunately, I had the opportunity to continue my basketball career at the University of Bridgeport (‘09-’11). After that, I wrapped up my basketball career and became a graduate assistant at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia (‘11-’15).
I graduated with my Master's degree in Occupational Therapy. During graduate school, I was captivated by life transitions, particularly athletic transitions. My graduate thesis explored the significant challenges that athletes encounter as they transition into and out of their respective sports. This research has profoundly influenced my perspective and interactions with student-athletes.
I have experience coaching at Shenandoah University as an assistant women's basketball coach, and my current role as the director of player development. During my time at SU, we have won two conference championships (2019 and 2022). Additionally, our team made the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) academic top 25 honor roll in both 2018 (ranked 11th) and 2019 (ranked 1st).
In 2019, I used my research from graduate school to pilot a curriculum with the female basketball student-athletes. This curriculum focused on self-identity, aiming to help them understand what it means to them and how it manifests in their daily lives. As a coach and mentor, my ultimate goal has always been to instill confidence in the athletes I work with, empowering them to recognize their own unique skills and abilities. I strive to inspire them to positively impact their respective communities.
From 2019 to 2020, I collaborated as a co-creator on the SLICES (Should Learn In Current Education Systems) curriculum and workshops. The SLICES program was dedicated to three main areas: finance, health, and fulfillment.
In 2021, I had the privilege of being named the WBCA's Division III Assistant Coach of the Year. This recognition was a tremendous honor.
I currently work with female athletes of all ages and am on staff at Shenandoah University; in charge of the women’s basketball team’s player development. We develop the on court and off court skills required for success. Particularly leadership, confidence, and resilience.