Meier Signs Extension, Announces Gift Plan
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – The University of Miami and head women’s basketball coach Katie Meier have agreed to terms on a contract extension through the 2021 season.
Meier, who has been at the helm of the women’s basketball program at Miami since 2005, led the Hurricanes to their fifth straight postseason appearance this past season. One of the premier basketball coaches in the country, Meier has proven her commitment to the university and her student-athletes throughout her career at Miami and has served as an ambassador of the University of Miami and its athletic department.
“We are thrilled that Coach Meier has agreed to lead our women’s basketball program through the 2021 season,” Director of Athletics Blake James said. “Katie embodies the values of this institution, and her dedication to her student-athletes, this university and our community is unmatched.”
In conjunction with her contract extension, Meier has announced her plans for a $75,000 contribution to women’s athletics at the University of Miami.
“When this contract extension was presented to me, my first thought was of gratitude and excitement to continue my career here at the University of Miami,” Meier said. “At the same moment, I thought it was the proper time to show a great appreciation to President Shalala, Blake James and [Deputy AD / Senior Woman Administrator] Jennifer Strawley. I feel like I have deep roots here and would like to give back. I want our young women to be able to share the incredible impact that athletics has had on my life. I believe that this gift is the best way to do it. “
Meier, who has proven her dedication and generosity towards the university on several occasions, has challenged the South Florida and women’s basketball communities to give to Hurricanes women’s athletics.
“Today, I would also like to challenge the University of Miami and South Florida communities to jump on board and support all the wonderful things that are happening within our department and within women’s athletics,” she said. “Participating in sports does make a long-term difference in a woman’s life. The opportunities that collegiate athletics creates for our student-athletes allow them to grow and learn as members of our university community, and most importantly provide an unbelievable foundation for success in life.”
Entering her 10th season as the head coach of the Hurricanes, Meier has posted 163 wins with three NCAA tournament appearances in her time in Coral Gables. In 2013, Meier was named a co-recipient of the USA Basketball National Coach of the Year award after leading the USA U19 team to a gold medal and perfect 9-0 record at the 2013 FIBA U19 World Championships.
“Katie’s commitment to our entire athletics program and her generous financial commitment to women’s athletics demonstrate her belief in Miami and her understanding of the incredibly positive impact athletics has on the lives of young people and in particular young woman,” Strawley said. “Katie benefited from athletics in her life and truly recognizes the positive values it instills in young women. Her leadership, contagious energy and true commitment set an example for our entire university community.”
The University of Miami and Coach Meier would like to thank the following donors for their leadership contribution in support of Meier’s challenge and women’s basketball:
Warren & Marilyn Bateman, Stuart & Linda Price, Michael & Donna Silverman (in honor of Edith Bleich), and BJ Abolt.
For more information on how to participate in Coach Meier’s Challenge and support women’s athletics at the University of Miami, please call the Hurricane Club at 305-284-6699.
