A position as a graduate assistant has led an ACE alum to a permanent role with the WVU Men’s basketball team. Jay Kuntz spent seven years with the WVU basketball program and has recently accepted the coordinator of player development position. Kuntz graduated in 2014 with a master’s degree in athletic coaching education.
Kuntz continued his career as a graduate assistant with the Mountaineer basketball team, even after earning his degree, with Coach Huggins serving as his mentor.
“The way he cares about his players and the loyalty he has established with them and the staff is amazing. I can only hope to replicate as a head coach somewhere down the line,” Kuntz said.
Drs. Dieffenbach and Flett, CPASS ACE faculty, had a major impact on Kuntz. The experiences and life stories that CPASS faculty shared helped him relate to the material taught in the classroom and apply it in his professional career.
“It’s a win-win situation and something I utilize in my career every day,” Kuntz said.
Coming from Connecticut, Kuntz did not know anyone at WVU. The Mountaineer basketball team took him in as family and welcomed him right away.
“WVU holds a very special place in my heart. Not only is it my alma mater but it’s now my second home,” Kuntz said.
Kuntz believes that his involvement as a student and while working with the Mountaineer basketball team can serve as an inspiration to undergraduate and graduate students in the program.
“I sat where all you are sitting. You need to approach each class and each opportunity with an open mind and try to utilize it in your work setting,” Kuntz said. “Take it all in because it will be worth your while down the road.”