By Kayla Sarabun (On Twitter @kayla9614)

Lethbridge College’s Brad Karren honoured as coach of the year

Mar 16, 2017 | 10:22 AM

LETHBRIDGE –  Five coaches, one title – and Coach of the Year is no small honour.

Head Coach for Lethbridge College women’s basketball team, Brad Karren, was up against four other nominees.

Ramin Sadaghiani of Capilano University, Remy Simpson of St. Lawrence College (Kingston), Trevor Williams of Dawson College, and Mark Forward of Mount Saint Vincent University.

Everyone listened eagerly to hear what name would be called amongst the five on Wednesday night.

When Karren’s name was read aloud, the cheers from his team could be heard echoing throughout the main ballroom of a hotel in Edmonton, where the Kodiaks were preparing for the CCAA National championships.

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For the Kodiaks coach, the team has become like his family.

As Karren walked to the stage to deliver an acceptance speech, emotion came across his face.

“They’re like my own kids. I have two daughters, but I’d take them… They’re wonderful,” said Karren, tears welled up in his eyes. 

There were still other awards to be given out that night.

One of them being the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Player of the Year, of which one of the Kodiaks was up for.

Logan Moncks is in her second season with the Kodiaks, and currently holds the title of Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference Player of the Year.

Moncks was also up against four other nominees.

Ceejay Nofuente of Humber College, Carmelle M’Bikata of Capilano University, Carrie-Ann Auger of Cègep Trois-Rievières and Jayla Verney of Holland College.

This time, the Kodiaks weren’t so lucky, as Ceejay Nofuente claimed the title for the second year in a row.

Coach of the Year, as well as Player of the Year will receive a customized ring from Jostens Canada, complete with their last name, as well as their team name.

Although Nofuente’s received the award, she was still looking ahead at the upcoming games.

“I know there will be great competition this weekend, and I’ll see you all on the court,” said Nofuente closing her acceptance speech.

Nofuente isn’t the only person looking ahead… Coach Karren is too.

“We’re ready, we’ve watched their tapes, we’ve watched how they play… we’re gonna play our game… we’re hoping they have to change to play with us.” said Karren.  

As for the Kodiak team, the women will take on the Douglas College Royals kicking of the CCAA Championship at 1:00 p.m. Thursday..