Caitlyn Velez is set to take the reins of the Sheehan girls basketball program, marking a significant return to her roots as she steps into her first head coaching role. The 2021 Sheehan graduate has been appointed to lead the Titans, succeeding longtime coach Mike Busillo, who retired after an impactful tenure.
Velez expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, "This means a lot to me to get my first head coaching job at my alma mater. I am excited to be able to give back to a place that gave so much to me and to develop young girls to be confident and instill the many life skills that basketball teaches." Her passion for the sport and dedication to mentoring young athletes will be vital as she embarks on this new chapter.
The Sheehan Athletic Department made the announcement via social media, highlighting Velez's previous experience as a player for the Titans. During her high school career, she served as a captain and earned recognition as a GametimeCT All-State Honorable Mention in her senior year. Her leadership on the court and commitment to the game have laid a strong foundation for her coaching aspirations.
Following her time at Sheehan, Velez continued her basketball journey at Randolph-Macon College in Virginia, where she played as a guard and graduated in 2025. This experience at the collegiate level has equipped her with valuable insights that she hopes to pass on to her players.
Velez takes over from Busillo, who led the Sheehan girls basketball team for several years, guiding them to three CIAC finals and securing the school's first state championship since 1976 in Class MM just two seasons ago. His retirement marks the end of an era for the Titans, and Velez acknowledges the importance of Busillo's mentorship as she transitions into her new role. "(Busillo) and I are good friends and it is comforting he's there. It's nice to have someone to lean on and it's not just him but other coaches I have had in Wallingford. It's nice to have so many people supporting me," she remarked.
Velez is committed to upholding the values instilled by Busillo, emphasizing that her coaching philosophy extends beyond basketball. She aims to foster academic excellence and community involvement among her players, believing that the relationships formed through the sport can lead to lifelong connections.
As the new season approaches, Velez's return to Sheehan as head coach is a promising development for the girls basketball program. With her background as a player and her eagerness to mentor the next generation of athletes, the Titans are poised for a bright future under her leadership.
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