I interviewed Loyola Women’s Basketball Head Coach shortly after the Ramblers season ended with an Atlantic 10 Tournament loss to Richmond. That loss ended a very successful second season at Loyola for Coach Guth.
The Ramblers went 15-16 in the 2023-24 season. After beating Fordham in the first round of the A10 Tournament, they were eliminated 70-54 by Richmond. The Ramblers hovered around the .500 mark for much of the season, a big improvement over the 6-24 record of last season.
As bleak as Coach Guth’s first season looked by the record, the reality was much better. The Ramblers played in a new conference, under a new coach, while dealing with a lot of injuries. Despite those factors and the looks of the record, the team seemed to be so close so many times. I’m not a homer, nor a blind optimist, but I felt all season the team was right on the brink. Unfortunately, they fell short many times and the record stands as is.
It all started with Coach Guth’s introductory press conference. As I stated in the interview, I have attended many such media events. While Coach Guth included the expected statements on a commitment to building and winning and other such coach’s promises, there was something different this time. 
Present at the session were the players and media, along with a large amount of Coach Guth’s family and friends. Obviously she had a tremendous support system. Coach Guth spoke from her heart and quickly had me hooked. Despite the excitement of the day and all of her supporters, Coach Guth spared several minutes for my first interview with her. She made sure to ask my name prior to recording and to thank me during and after the interview ended. After I left the event, I called my longtime friend Louie Atsaves, uncle of Loyola guard Sam Galanopoulos, and relayed my optimism and excitement.
Two seasons later, my optimism has grown even more. After every home game Coach Guth takes the mic and thanks the crowd. During every press session, she patiently answers all questions, no matter the outcome of the game. After each session, she personally thanks all.
I am purposely not giving all stats of the team or bio info on Coach Guth. You can get those on Loyola’s website. This interview goes beyond the stats, much like Coach Guth does.
In our interview, Coach Guth discussed her start in coaching, the positive feeling around the team, her two seasons here and more. Coach Guth’s personality and passion are evident. This is definitely one of my favorite interviews with any coach on any level.
Prior to last season, I predicted a .500 season. The Ramblers fell one game short (not that I am complaining). It’s too soon to judge next season’s record, but I know Coach Guth and her staff are working hard at recruitment. The Ramblers lost a few veterans, but others will step up and newcomers will start their journey, all under Coach Guth. It’s a good time to be a fan of the Ramblers…and I am.
