It has been said that "a sport doesn't build character, it reveals it."
It would be no stretch of the imagination to conclude that the game of basketball was instrumental in unveiling the character of Cheryl Dozier, head coach of the UB women's basketball team.
While most coaches appear to be one dimensional in nature - eating, sleeping and breathing his or her respective sport - it is clear that this motorcycle-riding coach contains many dimensions.
"I actually bought a Harley Davidson Fatboy last year, and it has been the most enjoyable things that I have ever purchased in my entire life," said Dozier. "A lot of my time in the off-season, once the weather breaks, will be spent enjoying that motorcycle."
A native of Westland, Mich., Dozier embraced the athletic lifestyle throughout her adolescence, playing softball, basketball and swimming competitively. Ultimately, Dozier made the decision to develop her talent in the game of basketball and continued to embrace her passion for the sport at Aquinas College
It was also at Aquinas under the guidance of her college coach where Dozier decided to transform basketball into her career.
"I didn't know what I wanted to do until my sophomore year in college, and a lot of that had to do with the mentor that I had in college which was my college basketball coach," said Dozier. "I saw the kind of impact she had on young people and the passion and desire that she had for the game, so it was an opportunity for me to be able to touch young lives as well as stay close to the game."
After compiling an impressive r?(c)sum?(c), holding down assistant coaching positions at Big 10 powerhouse Michigan State and MAC rival Ohio University, Dozier was hired as UB head coach and is currently coaching in her sixth season.
"One of the reasons why I wanted to take the job here was because I felt like from an administration and a university standpoint they were going to allow us and put us in a position to be successful," Dozier said. "I think the changes that they're making on our campus ... are going to allow us to attract better student-athletes."
The combination of Dozier's undying desire for success and her simple love of the game of basketball along with her strong, witty personality may have aided in making her one of UB's most successful coaches.
Over five seasons as head coach at UB, Dozier has brought UB closer to a MAC championship than any other coach in school history ever has. The success the Bulls have enjoyed in MAC conference play can perhaps be attributed to the improvements in the strength of the non-conference schedule that Dozier has consistently improved.
Dozier's squads have posted an impressive 39-15 non-conference record over the past five seasons, including a season-opening upset win over No. 22-ranked North Carolina in the 2000-01 season.
"The shining moment here at UB so far has been the North Carolina win," said Dozier. "That probably was the biggest win that kind of put our program on the map."
Dozier has no plans to put an end to her winning ways anytime soon either.
"I think Buffalo could be the last stop," she said. "I think the university has grown. We have always had tremendous leadership here and that's obviously going to continue with President (John) Simpson."
With this season winding down and the MAC championships just around the corner, Dozier is optimistic about her team and the potential success that the Bulls may be able to enjoy.
"I think the one thing about MAC championships is that everybody can start out 0-0," said Dozier. "The character of this team collectively has been unbelievable this year because we're faced a lot of different challenges. They never quit on me, and that shows the character of the type of kids that we have in the program, and that to me will allow us to be successful in the future."
5 Random Questions
1) Do you have any superstitions?
A: I never wanted to wear another suit twice in one year if we lost in it, but this year it's been a difficult year with that. I haven't worn the same suit twice, but I have really had to mix and match my suits this year so that wouldn't happen.
2) Will there be a woman president in your lifetime?
A: I hope so. I don't know for sure, but I absolutely hope so.
3) What is your favorite thing about Buffalo?
A: The community. They open their arms and embrace you. It's a very eclectic community, and I have really enjoyed my time here. We kind of have the best of both worlds having our campus in the suburbs, but we're 15 minutes away from nightlife and the ability to get out and do things.
4) Do you have a favorite Disney character?
A: Pooh bear - ever since I was little.
5) Delta Sonic or Do it yourself?
A: Delta Sonic. There's no time for do it yourself - not in this profession.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
