Life Pacific University Women’s Basketball coaches Kyler Kennedy and Claire Kennedy are united by far more than the game. Their journey together is rooted in faith, patience, and a shared commitment to serving others through coaching and mentorship. Their story was recently highlighted by CBS News Los Angeles, drawing attention to a life shaped by calling, community, and a shared love for people and the game.
Kyler serves as Head Coach of the LPU Women’s Basketball program, with Claire alongside him as an Assistant Coach. Together, they lead as partners, modeling teamwork and trust both on and off the court.
Claire is originally from Gulu, Uganda, and met Kyler during her collegiate playing career at Vanguard University, where she was named NAIA Player of the Year in 2017. Long before their relationship became romantic, Claire had developed close ties with Kyler’s family, becoming deeply connected to his parents and brother.
Their relationship unfolded slowly and intentionally. According to the two, there was no love at first sight.
“Those first two years, there were no sparks early,” Claire shared. “We had known each other for a while.”
Kyler agreed, explaining that the foundation of their relationship was built on friendship and values rather than immediacy. When he eventually decided to ask Claire out, he first sought his mother’s approval, wanting to preserve the family bond that already existed.
“She did tell me, ‘Don’t mess it up,’” Kyler said with a laugh.
Faith played a defining role in bringing them together. Claire described what she was looking for in a partner simply and clearly.
“I wanted someone who loved God and someone who loved people,” she said. “And Kyler is that, for sure.”
That shared foundation now shapes their marriage and their approach to leadership. Kyler often describes their dynamic as a true partnership.
“I think on paper I would be the head coach,” he said, “but she’s the neck. We’re not turning unless she does.”
Beyond their work at Life Pacific University, the Kennedys maintain a strong connection to Uganda. They travel regularly to visit Claire’s family and honor cultural traditions, including the Ugandan dowry process, which Kyler embraces with gratitude.
“Best investment I’ve made in my life,” Kyler said.
Together, they are also committed to expanding opportunities for young athletes in Uganda, fundraising for new basketball courts and organizing camps and clinics for local youth.
“It’s good for a local girl in Gulu to see that there was a local girl from Gulu who was able to do this,” Claire shared. “We’re trying to create more opportunity, because there are a lot of young people who are ready to take that opportunity and make the most of it.”
At LPU, the Kennedys bring these same values into their coaching. Claire emphasizes the importance of identity and self-worth in her guidance to student-athletes.
“The advice I give the most is to know their value,” she said, “so they’re not trying to find it in somebody else.”
Kyler often compares marriage and coaching to being part of a lifelong team.
“It’s like you’re on a team with a season that’s never ending,” he said. “How do you bounce back? How do you handle success? And ultimately, how do you have a friendship at the base of it?”
Life Pacific University is proud to have coaches whose lives reflect the mission and values of the institution, leading with faith, purpose, and service in every arena.
