As Caitlin Clark prepares to trade the basketball court for the golf course this offseason, her coach, Christie Sides, has weighed in on the star’s unconventional offseason move. Known for her fierce competitive drive, Clark’s decision to participate in the LPGA pro-am event hosted by Annika Sorenstam has sparked both excitement and curiosity. Sides, who has been a guiding force in Clark’s rookie year with the Indiana Fever, offered her perspective on the shift, showing both support and insight into how it fits into Clark’s overall development.
According to Sides, she fully understands the importance of a mental and physical break after Clark’s grueling first year in the WNBA. “Caitlin has been through an intense season,” Sides explained, acknowledging the long stretch Clark endured—from leading Iowa to the NCAA championship game to seamlessly transitioning into the WNBA. “She deserves some downtime, and if golf is a way for her to unwind and recharge, I think it’s a great outlet for her.” Sides emphasized the significance of athletes finding balance and pursuing interests beyond basketball, highlighting how Clark’s decision to engage in golf shows maturity in managing her offseason.
However, Sides also noted that she doesn’t believe Clark is straying too far from her core focus: basketball. “While it’s great that she’s exploring other interests, Caitlin’s competitiveness means she’s not going to lose sight of the game. I know she’s still committed to improving her skills and getting better every day,” Sides said. With Clark’s natural competitive spirit, it’s clear that no matter the activity, she approaches it with the same intensity she brings to the basketball court. Sides believes this offseason golfing stint might even enhance Clark’s mental toughness and offer her new insights when she returns to the Fever next season.
Sides also expressed excitement over the attention Clark is bringing to women’s sports through her various activities. “Caitlin’s not only raising the bar in basketball, but now, she’s opening up new conversations in other sports like golf,” Sides remarked. With Clark’s offseason plans making waves, Sides sees it as another opportunity for her star player to expand her influence, showing young athletes that they can excel across multiple fields. Ultimately, Sides is confident that Clark’s offseason will be a productive and enriching time, one that will only fuel her hunger for success when she returns to lead the Fever in the 2025 season.
