Simpson University Hires New Head Men's Basketball Coach

For Immediate Release

April 26, 2011

REDDING, Calif. - Simpson University announced the hiring of Matt Thacker as the head men’s basketball coach. Thacker, a native of Chimacum, Wash., joins the Red Hawks with over 30 years of coaching experience.

Simpson University Athletic Director Joe Griffin said, “Matt brings a lot of energy and basketball knowledge to our men’s basketball program. His years at Christian high schools and universities will allow him to adapt to the Simpson environment quickly. We believe that Coach Thacker will steer our men’s basketball program in the right direction, and help them become constant competitors in the Cal Pac Conference.”

Thacker previously coached at Life Christian School and Pacific Lutheran University (NCAA) in Tacoma, Wash., Warner Pacific College in Portland (NAIA Division II), Olympic College in Bremerton, Wash., and Green River College in Auburn, Wash.

In addition to his college coaching, Thacker served as head coach at the high school level for over 20 seasons, earning the “Coach of the Year” honor 5 times. His teams reached the post-season in all but two of his seasons, and he has totaled over 300 wins as a head coach at the high school and college levels.

Thacker earned an English degree from the University of Puget Sound, where he starred as a wide-receiver on their NCAA Division II football team. In 1984, Thacker signed a free-agent contract with the Buffalo Bills. He also holds a master’s degree in athletic administration.

Over the years he has served as a principal, athletic director, coach, teacher and pastor.

Thacker has been married to Carol for 23 years, and they have two sons: Nic, who is a student coach at Western Washington University for the NCAA Division II basketball program; and Dalton, who is a senior in high school.

Simpson University is a Christian university offering undergraduate, graduate and teaching credential programs. Simpson’s athletic department offers intercollegiate programs in women’s volleyball, men’s and women’s soccer, basketball, cross-country, golf, baseball, and, most recently, women’s softball. For more information about Simpson University athletics, please visit simpsonu.edu/athletics, or to arrange a personalized visit, call 1-888-9-SIMPSON or visit simpsonu.edu.

 

Contact: SU Public Relations
mediarelations@simpsonu.edu
(530) 226-4737