Jean A. Condon, Vermont – 2002
Jean began her teaching and coaching career at Walpole, MA, High School (1962-1972) where she served as a physical educator and coach of field hockey, basketball, and softball. In 1967 she moved to the University of Vermont to teach physical education and coach. She taught methods of teaching and coaching team sports to undergraduate physical education majors and coached basketball, volleyball, softball and lacrosse. In 1982 she became the full time women’s basketball coach.
Jean has been affiliated with the Northeast Field Hockey Club (a Smith College affiliate) from 1958-1967 and the Bay State League at Walpole High School (1962-1967). Her professional affiliations include membership in the Vermont Association for Health Physical Education, Recreation and Dance from 1967-2000 (treasurer for 4 years), AAHPERD, NAGWS, the National Federation for High School Sports, the Vermont Principals’ Association, and DGWS. She initiated the Northern Vermont Field Hockey Commission (1967) and served as commissioner and assigner for the state from 1967 through 1987.
Coaching records are unavailable. She holds ratings in field hockey, lacrosse, and basketball. Her advocacy work has included training field hockey and lacrosse umpires and serving as a mentor for new officials. She has taught numerous classes, workshops, and clinics for high school physical educators and coaches wishing to be recertified.
Jean also attended aquatic and small craft school to teach water sports, especially canoeing and sailing at Girl Scout and private camps for 20 years. She has also taught summer pre-camp sports clinics for camp counselors.
Jean has coached in several Northeast Regional Tournaments in the Yankee Conference and hosted several tournaments at UVM. As an official, she has umpired in all post-season tournaments including finals from 1967-1990. Jean has also worked to develop post-season state tournaments for county and state organizations.
Jean, the Vermont Official of the Year, is now retired and wanted to share a few thoughts with us.
“There is a need for more spectator education, more recruitment and mentoring of women to coach women, especially in small towns, and God Bless Title IX. It’s been a great ride!”