University of Saint Mary Names Mackenzie Skupa Head Women’s Basketball Coach

(Leavenworth, Kansas) –  The University of Saint Mary has announced the promotion of Mackenzie Skupa to head women's basketball coach, continuing a program built on continuity, culture, and competitive success.
 
Skupa brings deep familiarity with the Spires program after serving as the top assistant coach at Saint Mary for the past six seasons. During her tenure, she has played a key role in player development, recruiting, game preparation, and day-to-day operations, helping continue the program's growth on and off the court.
 
"Mackenzie has been instrumental in the development of our women's basketball program," Vice President for Athletics Rob Miller said. "Her investment in our student-athletes, understanding of our culture, and basketball knowledge make her the right leader for this next chapter."
 
Prior to joining Saint Mary, Skupa helped build a strong foundation at Southwest Baptist University, where she both played and served as a graduate assistant coach. Her experience as a student-athlete at the collegiate level, combined with her coaching background, has shaped a player-first philosophy centered on accountability, work ethic, and competitive excellence.
 
Mackenzie is a native of Campbell, Nebraska, and attended Silver Lake High School. She received a BS in Commercial Art and Graphic Design from Southwest Baptist University and also a MS in Education-Athletics Administration from Southwest Baptist. 
 
"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead this program," Skupa said. "Saint Mary is a special place, and I'm thankful for the trust shown in me. I'm excited to continue building relationships with our student-athletes and to keep pushing our program forward."
 
Skupa becomes just the latest example of Saint Mary's commitment to developing leaders from within and ensuring long-term stability for its athletic programs.