Lori Tanaka enters her first season as graduate assistant with the University of New Haven women's basketball program for the 2009-10 season.
Prior to her appointment at New Haven, Tanaka was the assistant freshmen coach for the women's basketball team at Lane Tech in Chicago, Ill. She was responsible for organizing and running practice, while assisting in game decisions and play calls. During her time at Lane Tech, the team went to the Chicago Public League Final Four.
While in Chicago, Tanaka also worked for the National Collegiate Scouting Association. Among her many responsibilities at the NCSA, she helped educate and advise families through the recruiting process.
A 2008 graduate of University of Chicago, Tanaka was a member of the basketball team during her four years. As a co-captain her senior season, Tanaka led the Maroons to their first outright University Athletic Association Conference championship and their inaugural appearance in the NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen.
While an undergraduate, Tanaka was the basketball office assistant during the summers. She was responsible for the initial written correspondence to new recruits and keeping all information for Chicago's recruiting database current. She also spent time volunteering at basketball camps and programs, including the Doug Bruno Basketball Camp at DePaul University and the University of Chicago Community Program.
A dean's list student while at the University of Chicago, Tanaka graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in human development. She is currently pursing her Masters of Science in Management of Sports Industries at the University of New Haven.
