Building a Team and Creating a Legacy

For Joelle Paul, an Exercise Science major at PennWest’s Edinboro campus, leadership took the form of founding a club basketball team. After working as a student assistant for the women’s basketball team, she realized she still had a passion for playing but wanted a more flexible way to compete. Starting the club was no small feat, but her determination paid off.

“Starting this club gave so many college girls the opportunity to compete and play a sport they loved,” Joelle says. Through her leadership, the team grew into a supportive and competitive community where students could thrive both on and off the court.

One of Joelle’s most meaningful moments came when she saw a photo of herself encouraging a teammate during a game. “That picture reminded me why I started this club: to create a space for encouragement, empowerment, and growth,” she reflects.

Beyond just playing the game, Joelle took on the responsibilities of recruiting players, scheduling practices, and coordinating games with other universities. She worked tirelessly to secure gym space, promote the team on campus, and build a community of athletes who shared her passion. Her leadership not only helped create a space for students to continue competing in basketball but also fostered friendships and camaraderie among teammates.

Joelle’s initiative and drive not only gave her teammates a space to play but also cultivated a culture of teamwork and leadership that will extend far beyond her time at PennWest. Her legacy will continue through the club she built, ensuring future students have the same opportunity to play, grow, and connect through the sport they love.

Listen to Joelle's story on the Power of PennWest Podcast