Jax State Women's History Month Feature- Part IV
3/23/2026 11:34:00 AM | Bowling, Student-Athlete Development
Name: Shannon O'Keefe
Sport: Bowling Head Coach
What inspired you to become a coach, and who were your role models along the way?
I love this sport and I personally loved competing and thought coaching would be the best way to give back to the sport I love so much, to help I sure the next generation to chase their dreams.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped your coaching philosophy?
Not sure if it was a moment in my career, but my husband and I always wanted to be parents, and it was never in the plans for us, so, when we started coaching this was our opportunity to love them first, raise strong confident women who will be successful no matter what they choose to do, and get to chase down some cool dreams while doing it. We believe when you put first things first, the rest takes care of itself.
How has coaching changed your perspective of women in sports?
I now have a full circle perspective of what we are capable of as an athlete and coach and do everything I can to inspire others to be brave and know we are capable of doing hard things.
What advice would you give women aspiring to pursue a career in coaching or athletics?
Do it! It's not always going to be easy but have a clear vision for yourself and your athletes, be open minded and always search for how to be better, be brave, choose kindness and know it will all be worth it!
What does Women's History month mean to you personally?
It's always fun to celebrate others, and when we get to take a step back and reflect on the women who have worked hard and paved the way for us, fills my soul with gratitude.
Sport: Bowling Head Coach
What inspired you to become a coach, and who were your role models along the way?
I love this sport and I personally loved competing and thought coaching would be the best way to give back to the sport I love so much, to help I sure the next generation to chase their dreams.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped your coaching philosophy?
Not sure if it was a moment in my career, but my husband and I always wanted to be parents, and it was never in the plans for us, so, when we started coaching this was our opportunity to love them first, raise strong confident women who will be successful no matter what they choose to do, and get to chase down some cool dreams while doing it. We believe when you put first things first, the rest takes care of itself.
How has coaching changed your perspective of women in sports?
I now have a full circle perspective of what we are capable of as an athlete and coach and do everything I can to inspire others to be brave and know we are capable of doing hard things.
What advice would you give women aspiring to pursue a career in coaching or athletics?
Do it! It's not always going to be easy but have a clear vision for yourself and your athletes, be open minded and always search for how to be better, be brave, choose kindness and know it will all be worth it!
What does Women's History month mean to you personally?
It's always fun to celebrate others, and when we get to take a step back and reflect on the women who have worked hard and paved the way for us, fills my soul with gratitude.
Jax State Softball at Florida State
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