Jara Shoemaker was named head coach of the Bethel College women’s basketball program in April 2025.
A native of Minneapolis, Kansas, Shoemaker began her collegiate playing career at Barton Community College, where she played two seasons and earned her Associate of Arts degree. After taking time away from college, she completed her bachelor’s degree at Fort Hays State University.
Before beginning her coaching career, Shoemaker worked in the health care industry for 10 years. She entered the coaching profession as an assistant girls’ basketball coach at Life Prep Academy in Wichita, Kansas. She served in that role for six years before being named the school’s Athletic Director.
Shoemaker joined the Bethel College women’s basketball coaching staff as an assistant coach for the 2024–25 season. Following one year in that role, she was promoted to head coach.
