A Message from Coach Jackie Manack

CDA Family,

In the last few years, the Lord has taught me a lot about holding things in tension. Today, as I write this, I sit in that tension. At the conclusion of the basketball season, I will be stepping out of my role in the athletics department, and after this school year, our family will be leaving CDA. I am incredibly excited about what is ahead for me and my kids. This new season we are starting can only be credited to the provision and goodness of God! I also feel a sadness as I think about saying goodbye to this place and these people that we love so much.

I want to express my deep gratitude to Coram Deo Academy for the past 11 years that my family has been here. Until now, this has been the only school home we have known. My four kids, Luke 11th, Hadley 9th, Jacob 8th and Georgia 6th, have been given a strong and steady Christian foundation. They’ve been shaped by their incredible coaches and teachers and have made lifelong relationships. This community has left fingerprints on who they are and will become. They have found mentorship, second families, best friends, and teammates, and I am deeply thankful to the Lord for allowing us to have belonged here. No place is perfect, but the Lord has perfectly used this place for us.

Seven years ago, I came on staff as the Junior High Girls Basketball Coach. Two years later I became the Girls Basketball Head Coach, and the next year I came on full time as the Athletic Coordinator under Coach Cornell. This year marked my 5th year as the Girls Basketball Program Director. Coaching at CDA, outside of being a mom, has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. This job, the athletic staff, my athletes, and the friends I’ve made here have truly taught me so much about the heart and character of God. I understand Him in more significant ways having walked in life with all of you. Thank you for allowing me to serve CDA in this way; it has changed me.

It is a great honor for me to be able introduce you to our new Girls Basketball Program Director, Kacey Heitschmidt. Kacey is a CDA alumni who is coming back from competing athletically overseas.  She was a three-sport athlete at CDA playing varsity basketball, volleyball and softball. Kacey has deep CDA roots and we are excited to have her join the athletic staff. This year Kacey joined our basketball coaching staff in our Junior High program and is assisting in High School. She is going to bring energy, competitive fire, and eagerness to foster growth in her student athletes. Kacey has a relational coaching style and brings the best out of the people around her. I am excited to see how she uses her many talents and giftings in this role. 

Welcome to the family, Kacey!

With my deepest gratitude,

Jackie Manack