Big strides are being made at Valparaiso University (VU). On Wednesday, April 12, VU welcomed its new head men’s basketball coach, Roger Powell, with a special press conference. Powell took the opportunity to share his goals and values and inspire hope for the future. The day was ultimately a wonderful celebration of new leadership, progress, and Valpo pride.
“This is truly a great day not only for Valpo men’s basketball but for the entire university as we continue to move in the right direction,” said VU Athletic Director Dr. Charles Small.
The press conference opened up with VU President Jose Padilla as he welcomed Powell back to Valparaiso. Powell served as VU’s assistant coach from 2011 to 2016, so it was very emotional for everyone to see him return as head coach.
After the homecoming greetings, Padilla shared his hopes and well-wishes with Powell and assured him that he had the university’s total support.
“All I ask is that you make sure everyone who steps onto this court remembers the night they played the Beacons. The wins will come, but what’s more important is that you help these men understand that we never quit. I can assure you that we will never let you quit because we always have your back and support you,” said Padilla.
Small then explained how exciting the search for a new head coach was, and how much of an opportunity it was for the university.
When looking for a new head coach, VU was looking for someone who shared its values, was enthusiastic about building the basketball program, and could help fans get excited again. After spending some time searching and looking for the right fit, Powell was hands down the perfect choice.
Powell has had plenty of experience with basketball. He played at Illinois University where he scored over 1,000 points. He had 124 wins in five seasons as VU’s assistant coach. He helped lead Vanderbilt University’s men’s basketball team to the NCAA Tournament. Not to mention, as an assistant coach at Gonzaga University, Powell had a 121-13 record.
Small explained that it was more than just Powell’s impressive record that sealed the deal.
“He has core values of love and family that really spoke to us. Many people call him the Reverend because of his calling to utilize basketball to help people grow spiritually. Our fans remember him as having this incredible energy and passion. We’re excited for people to get to meet him today,” said Small.
When Powell took the stand, he could hardly contain his excitement. He shared that the last time he stood on VU’s court was during VU’s quarterfinal game against St. Mary’s. Powell was overjoyed to be back where his coaching career started.
“I appreciate all of you for your belief in me. I’m super excited about this opportunity to come back home and do something special,” said Powell.
Powell shared his goals of not just building a winning team but helping a group of young men become better individuals. Under his leadership, the future of VU men’s basketball is sure to be bright.
“I have been gifted with the ability to lead and motivate people to achieve God’s best for their lives. I have winning in my DNA. Everywhere I’ve been fortunate to win and I will do that here,” said Powell.
Overall, Powell’s moving press conference was just the first step of what is sure to be a very successful coaching career at VU. Everyone is thankful to have him back in the community and can’t wait to see what the future holds.
“I really just want to say thank you. Thank you to a lot of people, but thank you to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving me an opportunity to lead these young men. As a coach, it is my responsibility to change lives and build young men into men of integrity, and my God believes in me,” said Powell.
To learn more about Valparaiso University and all the wonderful things happening on its campus, visit valpo.edu.
