News Summary

Mishawaka High School is enhancing its athletic programs with a new coaching staff, including Will Coatie for boys basketball, Benji Dolly for wrestling, and Mike Bultinck for girls soccer. Each coach brings a wealth of experience and a passion for mentoring young athletes, aiming to foster growth, teamwork, and community ties as they embark on an exciting new chapter.

Mishawaka High School Welcomes Exciting New Coaching Staff

In the heart of Mishawaka, there’s a buzz in the air as the local school board recently made some dynamic changes to the coaching staff of Mishawaka High School. These new hires are not just names on a list; they are passionate individuals ready to elevate the school’s athletic programs to new heights!

Meet the New Boys Basketball Coach

First up is Will Coatie, stepping into the role of boys basketball coach. Previous to this, Coatie made his mark at Elkhart High School, where his record was 8 wins and 38 losses over the last two seasons. Yes, those numbers might raise an eyebrow, but every new beginning comes with its challenges. He takes over from Bodie Bender, who took on a new venture at Elkhart a few months back.

Coatie comes with a rich coaching history that spans over a decade at Elkhart Central, where he served as the head girls basketball coach. His record there was 114 wins to 144 losses, which isn’t shabby when you consider the ups and downs that come with coaching. In 2023, he was honored as the NIC Girls Basketball Coach of the Year and played a crucial role in leading the team to a sectional title in 2018. Coatie is excited about this opportunity and sees it as a true blessing to mentor young men and help them grow both on and off the court.

Wrestling Takes the Spotlight

Next is the much-anticipated arrival of Benji Dolly as the new wrestling coach. As a proud graduate of Mishawaka High School, Dolly comes from a family steeped in the tradition of wrestling. With his father as an assistant coach and his brothers excelling in the sport, he’s no stranger to the legacy of victory at MHS.

During his impressive high school wrestling career, Dolly achieved a record of 128 wins against 42 losses, along with winning three sectional and three regional championships. After spending time with the Penn High School wrestling program for four years following a stint in California, Dolly is thrilled to return to his roots and lead the wrestlers at Mishawaka. He’s determined to instill pride in the wrestling program and strengthen the connection between athletes and the community.

Girls Soccer Welcomes New Leadership

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Mike Bultinck has been promoted to the role of girls soccer coach after serving as the JV coach. His promotion is a testament to his dedication and hard work on the field. Bultinck looks forward to enhancing the girls soccer program and creating pathways for the young athletes to shine.

A Vision for the Future

The new MHS Athletic Director, Evan Fras, has expressed his enthusiasm about the new hires, stating that they align perfectly with the school’s vision to enhance athletic programs and solidify community ties. With Coatie at the helm of boys basketball, Dolly leading wrestling, and Bultinck taking charge of girls soccer, the school is poised for an exciting chapter.

Each of these coaches is not just bringing their experience; they are bringing a refreshing passion for their sports. Under Coatie’s guidance, the boys basketball team aims to build a strong foundation that emphasizes both teamwork and personal growth. Meanwhile, Dolly aims to energize the wrestling program and foster connections that help create a supportive environment for all athletes. Bultinck will, no doubt, enhance the spirited energy of the girls soccer team.

Final Thoughts

Mishawaka High School is indeed in for an exhilarating season ahead with such committed and visionary coaches leading the charge. As they all come together under one roof, we can expect a bright future where athletes flourish, and the community thrives stronger than ever!

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