Medina Sunrise Rotary enjoyed a special treat as Medina High School’s girls and boys varsity basketball coaches joined us as guest speakers.
Coach Karen Kase, a 15-year Medina coaching veteran who has led Medina’s girls basketball program for 13 years, shared her inspiring journey to becoming head coach while celebrating the program’s many achievements—including her remarkable milestone of 200 career wins.
Beyond the victories, Kase emphasized the importance of developing leadership in her players. With women still underrepresented as head coaches in basketball, she wants her athletes to see what’s possible—and to recognize the leaders they are capable of becoming.
Coach Chris Hassinger, a celebrated Medina coach for 32 years, brought along the senior leaders from the boys varsity team. Hassinger achieved the title of winningest coach in Medina High School boys basketball history with an impressive 171 career wins.Together, they spoke about the three core values that guide their program:
1. Life is about relationships
2. Serve others
3. Legacy — use your platform to make an impact
Each senior shared meaningful examples of how they live out these values, both on and off the court, and how they put them into action within the community. Their stories were a powerful reminder of how athletics can shape character and create lasting impact beyond the game.
Thank you to Coach Kase, Coach Hassinger and the senior boys for visiting our club this morning. You are making a difference in our community!
PHOTOS (provided by Natalie Peacock)
Coach Karen Kase, David Samuelson, Coach Chris Hassinger
Medina High School Basketball Team
