Laura Beeman, the UH Rainbow Wahine basketball coach, is known for her dedication to winning games. However, her commitment to her players’ emotional well-being is equally profound, even if it doesn’t show up in the standings.
“Our players need to feel they can come to my office and say, ‘Coach, I’m struggling right now, but I still want to play.’ They must trust that on the court, I’ll treat them as athletes, not as individuals going through a tough time,” Beeman explained.
With stars like Caitlin Clark drawing more attention to women’s basketball, the pressure on players has increased. This pressure is compounded by social media, where athletes can see immediate reactions to their performances.
“It’s similar to pulling the arm on a slot machine,” Beeman said. “The like button triggers dopamine, and some kids become addicted to that validation.”
Experts agree that athletes perform best when they are at peace in their personal lives. If they are struggling, they need to feel comfortable asking for help. Beeman believes that communication is crucial.
“It’s about sitting down with the kids, providing a safe space for them to talk, and being OK with what they share. Then, it’s about giving them the tools they need. You can’t fix kids, but you can help them navigate their own lives,” she said.
UH athletics supports its student-athletes in balancing sports, academics, and mental health. Beeman ensures her players use these resources because she relies on them too.
“A lot of my players are involved in our Rainbow Wellness Program at UH, which focuses on mental health,” she said. “We have three excellent counselors who help with everything from sleep and nutrition to personal traumas.”
Under Beeman’s leadership, the Rainbow Wahine basketball team has achieved significant success, winning conference titles and competing in the NCAA tournament. Beeman, now in her 13th season, was named Big West Coach of the Year. She acknowledges the crucial role fans play.
“The Hawaii fan base is really special,” she said.
While fan support helps maintain a positive attitude, Beeman understands that sustaining focus and well-being in life requires more than just encouragement.
