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Evan Unrau
Director, Los Angeles at PeacePlayers International
Professional Background
Evan Unrau has crafted a remarkable career at the intersection of sports and education, with a deep-rooted dedication to empowering youth through athletics and psychological support. As the current Director in Los Angeles for PeacePlayers International, he is committed to using the transformative power of sport to bridge divides, build communities, and foster understanding among individuals from different backgrounds. Through innovative programming and hands-on leadership, Evan ensures that youth develop not only as athletes but also as positive role models within their communities.
Prior to his pivotal role at PeacePlayers International, Evan contributed his expertise as the Program Support Manager at the Positive Coaching Alliance, where he focused on instilling a positive culture in youth sports through training and resources for coaches, athletes, and parents alike. With a strong foundation in both coaching and management, he effectively leveraged his skills to improve the overall youth sports environment.
Before transitioning into program management, Evan dedicated several years to coaching at prestigious universities, including Stanford University, University of Southern California, and University of California, Santa Barbara, where he held roles ranging from Assistant Coach to Associate Head Coach. His coaching tenure allowed him to influence a generation of young female athletes, guiding them to not only excel in athletics but also thrive academically and personally.
Education and Achievements
Evan earned both his Master’s degree in Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology and his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. His strong educational background has been instrumental in shaping his philosophy around coaching and youth mentorship. By integrating psychological principles with sports, Evan brings a unique approach that emphasizes emotional intelligence, resilience, and mental well-being in athletes.
In addition to his roles in education and coaching, Evan has an impressive athletic background as a former professional women’s basketball player. His experience playing for top European teams, such as Amicale Steinsel and AB Contern, enriched his understanding of the sport from a player’s perspective, which he now shares with young athletes in his coaching methodologies.
Evan's commitment to sports and education has contributed significantly to his achievements in not only developing competitive teams but also nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of life beyond athletics. His influence can be seen in numerous young athletes who have gone on to achieve personal and professional success.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Evan Unrau has established himself as a leader in the field of sports education and youth development. His noteworthy achievements include:
- Successfully directing initiatives at PeacePlayers International that have brought together youth from diverse backgrounds through basketball, using the sport as a tool for social change.
- Leading programs at Positive Coaching Alliance that have earned accolades for promoting positive, character-building experiences in youth sports.
- Guiding multiple collegiate athletes at prestigious universities, many of whom have continued to excel in professional sports or advanced academic pursuits.
- Contributing to the growth of youth basketball programs while ensuring they focus on both competitive excellence and personal development for athletes.
Evan Unrau’s blend of professional training, extensive coaching experience, and passion for youth development positions him as a vital asset in the sports community. His ongoing commitment to fostering youth potential through sports ensures that the impact of his work will resonate for years to come.
