Biddeford Schools Host Student-Athlete Forum With WNBA's Holmes

The Biddeford School Department scheduled a free public panel on the pressures facing young athletes for 6 p.m. on Oct. 15 at the Biddeford High School Little Theater, according to Saco Bay News.

The program, titled "Beyond the Scoreboard: Helping Student-Athletes Succeed in Sports & Life," is open to anyone, though the district aimed it at student-athletes and their families.

Gorham native Mackenzie Holmes, who plays for the WNBA's Seattle Storm, is the featured speaker. Holmes finished her career at Indiana University with 2,530 points, the most in program history, was named an All-American more than once, played in four NCAA Tournaments and went 26th overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Organizers said she will talk about teamwork and the mindset required at higher levels of competition rather than only about athletic results.

Other panelists include Biddeford athletic director Dennis Walton, University of New England head basketball coach Ed Silva and South Portland parent Michelle Whitmore, who will address how families can manage expectations around playing time and college opportunities.

"Success may look different for every student," Walton said, adding that few high school athletes reach the top levels of college sports but all can gain from participating.

Superintendent Jeremy Ray said athletics teach perseverance, discipline and leadership while also carrying real pressures. The evening closes with a question-and-answer session with Holmes and the other panelists.

This story was first reported by Saco Bay News.