Amanda Davidson is a female athlete that made a name for herself years ago in the greater toronto area by showcasing her basketball skills. Amanda adopted the nickname “handles” throughout her high school career at West Hill Collegiate where she was coached under her now long time mentor, Wayne Dawkins. She went on to become a standout player in the province, and played in the All Canada Classic in her senior year.

Taking a huge step into post-secondary schooling, “Handles” accepted a basketball scholarship to play at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Mississippi. This past season marked Amanda's coaching debut as the newest graduate assistant for the Alcorn State women's program, where she successfully aided in the recruitment and development of future Lady Braves. Another Toronto native Renelle Richmond (David and Mary Thompson), will enter her senior year at ASU.

When Amanda is back home, she is a trainer for PHASE 1 Basketball, and is actively involved in events year round to give back to the program as an alumni and in the community to promote female basketball.

Amanda has also continued playing basketball since she graduated as a member of the Lady Cyclones, a semi-pro team that plays in the Blue Chip league of America. PHASE 1 Basketball’s, “LadyElite 1” team also has a bid into one of the biggest semi-pro leagues in North America.

This past weekend Wayne Dawkins and his family made a trip out to Detroit, Michigan to support Amanda and the Lady Cyclones, as her team defeated the Flint Michigan Lady Monarchs.

“It’s great seeing how far she’s come over the years. I credit her hard work ethic and determination, as well as her perseverance to her success. She is living her dream of both coaching and playing, and remains an active role model for kids that look to follow in her footsteps one day” –Wayne Dawkins.

Lee Anna Osei  @GetRecruitedCan