Bio

Dr. Natalie Boone was named the Growth Coach in the summer of 2023.

"We are thrilled to introduce Dr. Natalie Boone as our esteemed growth coach," stated head women's basketball coach Emry Tsitouris. "With an impressive academic background and a passion for holistic well-being, Dr. Boone is dedicated to empowering our student-athletes in their journey towards optimal health and success on and off the court."

Dr. Boone’s educational accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable. She has earned five degrees, holding a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education, a Master’s degree in Health and Physical Education, and a Master’s degree in School Administration, all from Western Carolina University. Additionally, Dr. Boone possesses an EdD in Educational Leadership from Gardner Webb University and an EdD in Kinesiology from UNC Greensboro.

Beyond her academic achievements, Dr. Boone has also obtained three certifications that enhance her expertise in supporting student-athletes. She holds a certification in College Student Well-being Trauma & Resilience from Florida State University, as well as being a Certified Wellness Coach from the National Academy of Sports Medicine & she is a Certified Yoga Teacher. These certifications solidify her ability to guide athletes towards optimal physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Additionally, Dr. Boone currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Health and Human Performance Department at Mars Hill University. Her position as a faculty member further highlights her commitment to education and her deep understanding of the field.

"Her dual roles as an educator and a mentor make her a valuable asset to both Mars Hill Women’s Basketball Team and the university community as a whole," Tsitouris continued.

As the teams growth coach, Dr. Boone will act as an empowering partner in the student-athletes overall health and well-being. Her primary goal is to help student-athletes adopt a positive lifestyle while establishing healthy patterns of emotional and mental health, stress and time management, psychological recovery, mindset, nutrition, sleep, and more.  Dr. Boone will strive to provide a safe environment for the student-athlete to express their concerns and then work with them to plan and suggest activities to manage their concerns in a healthy way.  The strategies and interventions will help improve the student-athlete's mental readiness and focus, both on and off the court. 

Through her strategic interventions and targeted strategies, Dr. Boone will enhance the mental readiness and focus of our student athletes. By addressing their unique needs, she will empower them to excel in their athletic endeavors while nurturing their personal growth and development.

Tsitouris concluded, "Mars Hill Women’s Basketball is ecstatic to have Dr. Boone as part of the team. Her unwavering dedication and expertise will undoubtedly elevate our program to new heights, ensuring our athletes reach their full potential."