Shae Dheensaw is headed back to her home province of British Columbia. 

The Victoria native was named the sixth head coach in Simon Fraser University's women's basketball program history on Friday, May 8. 

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to grow as a head coach in the Niagara region; this experience has meant so much to me both professionally and personally," Dheensaw said. "Brock is such a special place, and I've truly valued being part of this community. Family has always been a leading factor in every aspect of my life, and I ultimately had to make a decision that allows me to reconnect with them."  

Dheensaw joined the Badgers in the summer of 2024 and is coming off a successful second season, guiding the team to an Ontario University Athletics (OUA) quarterfinal appearance for the seventh consecutive year. 

During her tenure, the program saw multiple milestones, highlighted by Madalyn Weinert's U SPORTS Women's Basketball Player of the Year award and U SPORTS Academic Top 8 All-Canadian recognition. 

Brock Sports and Recreation Associate Director Courtney Smith shared her appreciation for Dheensaw's contributions during her tenure at Brock.

"Shae's impact goes far beyond wins and losses," she said. "Her passion, professionalism and genuine commitment to student‑athlete development and wellbeing, both on and off the court, have been instrumental in advancing our program. We are beyond grateful for her leadership and wish her every success in the next chapter, where she will no doubt continue to elevate women's basketball across our country."

As she prepares to move on, Dheensaw reflected on her time at the University and the growth the team experienced over the past two seasons.

"I leave Brock with bittersweet feelings, but also a deep sense of pride and excitement for what we were able to build in a short amount of time," she said. "I have no doubt the program will continue to rise and achieve great things in the years ahead."