Laura Skeen enters her first year as an assistant coach at The University of Texas at Arlington. Skeen[apos]s responsibilities include recruiting and film exchange, along with community service.
Skeen comes to UTA after serving last season as the graduate assistant at St. Mary[apos]s University in San Antonio. Skeen handled film exchange, recruiting, community service and alumni relations in helping the Rattlers to a 17-11 record and a second place finish in the Heartland Conference.
Skeen began her high school career at DeSoto High School where she played for the Eagles as a freshman and sophomore. She started every game her freshman season in earning all-district honors and helping the team capture the district championship. She earned all-district and all-region honors as a sophomore despite having her season cut short due to injury.
Following her sophomore year, Skeen transferred to Dallas Bishop Lynch High School and played for legendary coach Andy Zihlman. She was a two-year starter for the Lady Friars in helping the team capture back-to-back TAPPS 5A state championships. Skeen was named a first team all-state performer as a senior after earning second team honors as a junior.
The Lady Friars hold two national records for most state titles won (21) and most consecutive state titles won (12).
Skeen spent nine summers playing AAU/BCI basketball. She was twice named AAU Regional Most Valuable Player. She helped lead her teams to seven AAU National Tournaments and three top five finishes.
Following graduation, Skeen went on to play collegiately at St. Edward[apos]s University. Skeen played three seasons for the Lady Hilltoppers and was used as a utility player, seeing time at four different positions. She was named to the Heartland Conference Commissioner[apos]s Honor Roll as a sophomore and junior, and was a member of the Dean[apos]s List three semesters.
Skeen served as an officer in the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. She graduated magna cum laude in three-and-a-half years in 2002 with a bachelor of arts in kinesiology.
Following her graduation, Skeen went to live and work at her family[apos]s Exotic Wildlife Ranch in Pipe Creek, Texas.
Skeen plans on continuing her master[apos]s degree in communications. In her spare time she enjoys water skiing, attending country music concerts and going to the movies.
Skeen, a member of the TABC and WBCA, resides in Arlington.
