For the past 10 seasons a familiar face has patrolled the sideline during UTSA Roadrunner basketball games. Rae Rippetoe-Blair has guided the Roadrunners from the bottom to the top of the Southland Conference in her tenure.  But what does she do off the court. The Paisano recently sat down with coach Rippetoe-Blair to talk about life off the court.

What is the best part about being a coach at UTSA?

I think it is developing the young players into who they are. I enjoy seeing these young ladies grow up and go out into the world.

When did you decide to become a coach?

I was in my fifth year of college, I had said all through college I wanted to be a businesswoman.  I had my business degree and had been interviewing for jobs. I realized this isn’t what I want to do, I want to coach.  I was fortunate to go right into college coaching. I have been in it ever since.

When not coaching, Coach Rippetoe-Blair is____?

I like to spend time with family and friends. Whether it be golfing or whatever. I enjoy a lot of outdoor activities, I ride a Harley.  My husband and I both enjoy playing golf. Golf is a crazy game, one day you can play great and the next day not. It is such a mental game.

If you couldn’t be a coach, what profession would you have chosen?

I have no idea. At the time I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I still can’t see myself doing anything else.

Who has been the biggest influence on you?

Probably my family; my mother probably the most. I had a lot of great mentors, my first boss that hired me as a head coach was a great mentor to me at a young age.

Where is the best place you have ever visited, as a coach, player or just to visit?

My favorite place is San Antonio, probably travel wise is Australia.

What is your favorite moment in sports that you were a part of?

There are so many of them, I can’t think of just one.