When Becky Ahart took on the role of Roscoe junior varsity girls basketball coach in 1985, she was unaware of the grander impact she’d make on the sport. Forty-one years later, the Section IX Class D Girls Basketball Championship trophy has officially been named in her honor.

For decades, she has built a program defined by discipline, preparation, and trust. Collecting championships and sectional titles along the way, Coach Ahart’s teams have earned more than 270 victories, and in 1990 she was awarded the Cable 6 Girls Basketball Coach of the Year. Her impact never stopped at her own teams’ bench, however, as Becky served on the Section IX Girls Basketball Committee, helping to shape the growth, direction, and integrity of the sport across the region. 

In 2015, she was inducted into the New York State Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame—no small feat—for her lifetime dedication to the sport. But for all the accolades and awards she’s earned, Becky’s players both past and present know that’s not what drives her. It’s the pure love of the sport and her dedication to supporting and building confident young women that has kept her coming back to coaching year after year. We caught up with Becky and asked her what exactly this honor means to her.

“This honor means more to me than I can fully express. Basketball shaped so many wonderful memories, friendships and life lessons for me and my players. To know that my name will now be connected to the dedicated teams who put in hard work to win is incredibly special. I hope this trophy reminds athletes that dedication, sportsmanship and love for the game are what truly matter. I am proud to be sharing this honor with my husband, Fred, who holds the honor on the Boy’s Section IX trophy.”

We also asked about the impact coaching has had on her life.

“When I first moved to Roscoe, I was painfully shy. Coaching has helped me overcome being shy. Coaching cheerleading and then basketball has taught me that it was easier than I thought to converse with someone new. I had to welcome coaches, referees and speak with newspaper reporters, which helped tremendously. Being a coach is something I am grateful for. The memories and friendships that came from those years are priceless. It’s a time in my life that I wouldn’t change for anything. I have had the privilege of meeting and working with so many amazing people involved with sports and have some unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships and great experiences.”

Lastly, we asked Becky what advice she would give to coaches who are taking on this role for the first time.

Rule #1: “First of all, enjoy it!”

Familiarity creates family: “Get to know your players and let them get to know you.”

Never forget the basics: “Practice the basic fundamentals of ball handling, passing and shooting. Use positive encouragement.”

“Keep it fun with games intended to build their skills, let them enjoy learning.”

Recognition goes a long way: “Be willing to acknowledge their strengths and abilities.”

Don’t forget the most important part: “Enjoy your time, it’s well spent.”

“The accomplishments of my teams with the help of assistant coaches has led to my receiving this honor.” Becky said. “Due to their dedication and love of the game, I owe this to them. Thank you, Ladies and coaches. Thank you to all the parents and fans who have supported the girls over the years, your support meant a great deal.”