Valpo Coach Heading to Vanderbilt
(photo courtesy Valparaiso University Athletics)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe head coach of the Valparaiso University men’s basketball team is leaving. Bryce Drew, who has led the Valpo team since 2011, will become the head coach at Vanderbilt University.
Drew earned a 124-49 record as head coach and led the team to four Horizon League regular season championships and two league tournament championships. The team also garnered its three winningest seasons in program history under Drew’s leadership.
"We wish Bryce Drew and his family the best as they prepare for this next step in their journey," said Mark LaBarbera, director of athletics. "It’s been a blessing to work with a man who embodies such character and faith. Bryce is an exceptional young coach who has been an integral part of the men’s basketball team’s success. We are confident we will continue to build on his success and look forward to the future."
Drew served as an assistant and associate head coach for six season before becoming head coach in May 2011. A Valpo graduate, Drew played for the team from 1994-1998.
"The Drew family has made significant contributions to build upon Valpo’s storied tradition, growing it into a national brand that celebrates a winning combination of athleticism, teamwork, quality academics, character, integrity, and faith," said President Mark Heckler. "We are certainly saddened to see Bryce Drew move on, yet we are thrilled that one of our own alumni has achieved this level of national recognition and success."
The university did not give any details on the search for a new head coach, saying only, "The team looks to build on its success during the offseason and will return to competition fall 2016."