Stone is 2003 Badger State Games Honorary Athlete
June 26, 2003 | Women's Basketball
Badger women's basketball coach Lisa Stone is the Honorary Athlete of the 2003 Badger State Games starting this weekend in Madison. Stone will be a torchbearer and administer the Oath of Athletes at the opening ceremonies at Verona High School Friday at 8 p.m.
A four-mile-a-day runner and former BSG basketkball gold medalist, Stone will also attend a reception at the Governor's Executive Residence, and say a few remarks to the athletes after lighting the cauldron at the opening ceremony. The Governor will declare the games open for competition later in the evening.
The former Drake University coach is a newcomer to the University of Wisconsin but not the community. Stone grew up in nearby Oregon, Wis., and was a three-sport athlete at Oregon High School. She played collegiate basketball at Iowa and at age 23, became the youngest coach in the nation when she accepted the head job at Cornell College. Having just completed her 18th season as a head coach, Stone's career collegiate record of 375-118 (.761) percent ranks ninth in overall winning percentage among active Division I coaches. She posted a 64-27 (.703) record in three years at Drake while leading the Bulldogs to the Sweet 16 of the 2002 NCAA Women's Basketball Championship.
Since arriving in Madison in April, Stone has followed an ambitious plan to chat with many community groups about her vision for the Wisconsin women's basketball program. Mixed in with that message is a `fitness for life' theme that includes an exercise discipline, taking time to enjoy one's family, and living each day to its fullest.
Stone has been a frequent participant in the Athletic Department 's many golf outings and has spoken at most Badger Fund Events. She has also been a speaker for numerous banquets including the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Banquet. She was one of several `starters' for the annual Crazy Legs Run, and has lent her name to numerous community service promotions in the area. Stone says you can expect her team to join her in her commitment to community service this fall.
