GRAND FORKS — Grand Forks Central girls basketball has a new head coach.
Mike Mathison, who led the East Grand Forks Sacred Heart girls basketball team the last three years, will take over the Knights’ program, Central announced on Friday.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to coach,” Mathison said, “and am looking forward to growing girls basketball this year and in future years at Grand Forks Central, along with the support the Grand Forks Central and the Grand Forks basketball communities will provide.”
Mathison grew up in Walhalla, N.D., and led North Border boys basketball to a third place state finish in 2007. He played collegiately at UND for five years, leading the team to an 18-15 finish and a Great West Conference tournament championship as a team captain his final season in 2011-12.
After his playing career, he worked with the boys and girls Fastbreak programs before joining Sacred Heart five years ago, spending the first two seasons as an assistant.
“Mike brings a strong foundation of coaching experience and knowledge to our girls basketball program,” Central athletic director Tony Bina said. “His background in the sport and understanding of the game will be a valuable asset as he looks to strengthen the program. His passion for the game of basketball is evident, which leads to his ability to build a positive learning environment for his players. We are excited for Mike in his new role.”
Mathison worked in marketing with iHeart Radio in Grand Forks and was recently hired as a manager with Northdale Oil of Grand Forks.
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