The journey and story of Chris Rao’s basketball coaching career continues.
The Welland native is now Thunder Bay bound after Lakehead University welcomed him as the new head coach of the Thunderwolves Women’s Basketball program.
Rao brings a wealth of experience and success from across the Canadian basketball landscape, having most recently served as the Interim Head Coach at Cape Breton University, and prior to that as Head Coach at Niagara College, where he led the program to two OCAA Bronze Medals (2022, 2024), earned OCAA Coach of the Year honours, and was twice named Niagara College Coach of the Year (Ralph Nero Award).
Rao also brings professional experience from the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) having served as an assistant coach with the Niagara River Lions and Guelph Nighthawks.
In fact hours after learning he won the job at Lakehead, he received his championship ring from the Niagara River Lions who were crowned CEBL champions last season.
“Chris has developed a reputation for building programs rooted in accountability, academic success, and high performance”, said Tom Warden, Director of Athletics.
“His approach aligns with Lakehead’s values, and we believe he’s the right leader to carry forward the rich tradition of women’s basketball at our university.”
Rao officially begins his role on June 16, but Lakehead is excited to welcome him now as he begins the transition into his new position.
“I’m incredibly honoured and grateful to be joining the Thunderwolves” said Rao.
“This program already has so many amazing pieces in place—great people, strong traditions, and a passionate community. I can’t wait to get to work with the student-athletes and staff. Thunder Bay has such a proud and connected culture, and I want to make sure that the women’s basketball program continues to amplify and represent that culture and community on the provincial and national stage. I’m truly excited to make Lakehead and Thunder Bay home. Go Thunderwolves!”
Asked what his journey has taught him not only about basketball, but life as well, Rao offered this insightful answer.
“I think the most important thing is to be myself and trust myself and always be open to learning.
What have I learned? I’ve learned that I need to learn a lot more.”
Rao holds both a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts from Cape Breton University. His coaching stops also include time with Basketball Nova Scotia, Acadia University, and Cape Breton University men’s basketball, giving him a well-rounded foundation of leadership,development, and team culture building.
With a strong history and loyal following, the Thunderwolves women’s basketball program is poised for an exciting new era.
Rao plans to drive to Thunder Bay early next month to officially begin his tenure at Lakehead University.
Rod Mawhood is a lifelong Niagara native who has had the pleasure of working in all three mediums – Radio, Print and TV – for over 20 years. His first announcing gig was with the then St. Catharines Stompers. Since then he’s worked in radio and TV in Toronto, and currently is the announcer for the Niagara IceDogs and Niagara River Lions.
Rod also covers the Buffalo Bills for FOX Sports and the Buffalo Sabres for NBC Sports.
