McClease Daniels named coach at Cross

Deborah McClease Daniels has been appointed as the Wilbur Cross girl basketball coach.

McClease Daniels was an assistant with the Governors’ program under Tyrese

Thomas, who resigned in the offseason. McClease Daniels has been an assistant with the Governors for seven seasons overall.

She was also the middle school coach in the New Haven district for a halfdozen seasons.

“When the head coaching position became available, my experience, my love for the game and dedication to the sport and the student-athletes made me a suitable candidate for the position,” McClease Daniels said. “I am excited to be in this role as head coach and proud to represent a successful program like Wilbur Cross.”

McClease Daniels played for Wilbur Cross from 1985-87. She transferred there from Lee, which

closed in 1985.

Lee went to the Class L state championship game in its final year, McClease Daniels’ one season with the program. Lee lost to Lyman Hall.

McClease Daniels is one of several family members coaching or playing at Wilbur Cross. Her husband, Gerald, is a longtime assistant coach for the Wilbur Cross boys team. Their son, Gerald Jr., is also an assistant with the team.

Deborah’s grandson, Christian, is a junior on the boys team.

“My husband, son and I all started at Wilbur Cross as student-athletes, but now we are working with students on and off the court,” McClease Daniels said. “To come back to where it all started and coach is both an honor and a privilege. To do it alongside my family is priceless.”