SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine—The Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) Athletics Department has announced the hiring of Rachele Burns as Head Women’s Basketball Coach effective immediately.

Previous to her appointment at SMCC, Burns served as the Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Southern Maine (USM) for 10 seasons. For the Huskies, Burns took on recruiting responsibilities, preparation of scouting reports, strength and conditioning training programs, and academic mentorship initiatives.

A Maine native, Burns graduated from the University of Maine at Orono (’14) with her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education. During her time in Orono, Burns played Division 1 basketball for the Black Bears.

In addition to her duties with SMCC, Burns works as a physical education teacher at Gray-New Gloucester High School and is the Director and Head Coach of her own AAU basketball program, the Southern Maine Shock.

Burns expressed, “I am honored and thrilled to be taking on the role of Head Women’s Basketball Coach at SMCC. I want to thank the College and athletic department for providing me this amazing opportunity. SMCC has a rich tradition of academic and athletic excellence— I can’t wait to get started with these talented athletes to help them develop on and off the court! I’m excited to lead this team and make a positive impact on the lives of young women everyday through the sport I love.”

Associate Dean of Athletics and Alumni Affairs Matt Richards stated, “Rachele comes to SMCC with an exceptional background coaching both collegiately and in the local travel basketball circuit. I’m excited to work alongside her as she leads our women’s basketball program.”

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