Cape Breton University Announces Temporary Leadership Change in Capers Women’s Basketball Program

Main release: CBU Capers Women's Basketball Head Coach, Fabian McKenzie, will be taking a medical leave for the upcoming 2024/25 season. We ask that his privacy be respected at this time.

Chris Rao, a two-time alumnus of CBU will step in as the interim Head Coach of the Women's Basketball Team. While Coach McKenzie focuses on his health, the Capers program remains in good hands under the guidance of Rao. No stranger to the Capers bench, Rao is a former assistant coach of the Caper's Men's Basketball Team and is eager to return to Cape Breton.

"The Capers Athletics program has a strong history of bold leadership. For this reason, and his exceptional track record, we are thrilled to welcome Chris Rao back to CBU in this new capacity," says President David C. Dingwall. "We look forward to cheering on the Capers Women's basketball team under his guidance and wish Coach Fabe all the best as he takes the time he needs."

Rao brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the CBU community. With a successful coaching career including his most recent role as Head Coach of the Niagara College Women's Basketball Team where he led them to multiple OCAA medals, Rao is well-prepared to lead the Capers through this transitional period.

"I am very excited to rejoin the Cape Breton University community and Capers athletics. I am truly honoured that I got the call to be a caretaker for the program while Coach Fabe is away," says Rao. "Returning to the school where I was a student is very special. Being a Head Coach at my alma mater is a dream come true and I'll cherish it every day."

Rao is committed to continuing the legacy and forward momentum of the Capers Women's Basketball Team this season. "This is not a pause or a hold on the program but our turn to move things forward and continue on the amazing foundation Coach Fabe has laid," he says. "To the University, the community and especially the Orange Army, I look forward to having you in the Field House supporting our athletes as we build something special this year."

CBU Athletics and Recreation Director, John Ryan, says the team is confident in Rao's ability to lead the women's basketball program during this time. "His familiarity with our University along with his extensive coaching experience makes him the ideal person to step into this role and we are grateful to welcome him back," says Ryan. "We wish Coach Fabe a full and speedy recovery and look forward to his return."

The Capers Women's Basketball Team is set to begin their season this fall and the community is eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for this resilient and talented group of student-athletes.