AOP Spotlight Series: Denise Dillon, Class Of 1992 - Cardinal O'Hara

May 15, 2020

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A new feature to the website, the Spotlight Series will include interviews with former AOP student-athletes who continued their athletic participation in one form or another after high school.

Denise Dillon, Cardinal O'Hara (Class of 1992)

Inducted into the COHS Hall of Fame in 2018

                    Villanova University (Class of 1996)
                      * Compiled 1,355 points and 677 rebounds; three-time All-BIG EAST selection
                      * Named to the Big 5 (2004), Villanova Varsity Club (2012) and Delaware County (2012) Hall of Fame

                    Drexel University Women’s Basketball Head Coach (17 seasons)
                      * 329-204 record; 4 CAA titles; four-time Coach of the Year honoree
                      * Led Drexel to the 2009 NCAA Tournament and 2013 WNIT title

Named Women’s Basketball Head Coach at Villanova University on Mar. 27, 2020

Why Cardinal O’Hara is such a special place:
“I think it really is just that pride of size, people coming from all different areas, you cover such a wide spectrum. And I always bring it back to the tradition of sports and the great pride there, and the support all sports were shown from the student body. It’s that connection in the Delaware County area.”

The significance of being inducted into the COHS Hall of Fame in 2018:
“It was so humbling. I don’t think I was deserving of it….certainly not as just an athlete. It’s nice they recognized my profession in coaching, being involved in sports for so many years. You look at some of the people who are in the [COHS] Hall of Fame, it’s so impressive. So to be a part of that was extra special.”

On returning to Villanova University as the women's basketball head coach:
“It’s really an amazing opportunity. My time at Drexel was so special, and just that chance to grow professionally and learn each and every year the game, and be around amazing people. To then return and be prepared to take over such a storied tradition program at Villanova, and what Harry [Perretta] has done is exceptional. It’s a bit overwhelming. I’m anxious to get on campus and be around the team.”

How much does playing girls’ basketball in the Philadelphia Catholic League prepare student-athletes for competing in college?
“It really does. We talk about Philadelphia basketball…you’re talking high school and college…I think it’s the best basketball in the country. And when you have an opportunity to pull from some of these great programs like O’Hara, Wood, Carroll, and you see on the men’s end so many great teams as well. When you can keep some of these players home, it’s special.”

On the importance of student-athletes in your program continuing to grow as individuals and give back to those in need:
“It’s priority one. You talk about the well-balanced athlete, the well-balanced person, and that’s what you want. You want them to be prepared for the next chapter in their lives. And you want them to recognize what they are a part of in the moment, in the present time. When you step outside of yourself, and you realize the importance of taking care of others, more than yourself, you grow a greater appreciation for everything you’re about and who you are.”

Previous AOP Spotlights
Ryan Quigley, Lansdale Catholic (Class of 2016)