INA, Ill. (April 10, 2024) – Rend Lake College (RLC) is excited to announce the return of Tim Wills as the head coach of Warriors Basketball. This announcement comes following the resignation of former head coach Brian Gamber last month. Wills, a seasoned coach with a significant history at RLC, is set to bring his expertise and passion back to the basketball court for the 2024-2025 season.
Tim Wills (Photo by Nathan Wheeler, RLC Marketing & Communications) Click on the image for a larger version
Wills — the Director of Athletics and Professor of Health & Physical Education at RLC — is no stranger to RLC or its athletics department. Having previously served as the head coach for 18 seasons, his tenure was marked by some great runs (20-12 in 1996-96 and 21-11 in 2006-07). However, those who played under his guidance would tell you that Coach Wills' greatest influence lay in his commitment to the program and his dedication to developing players, both on the court and in life. After stepping down in 2010, Wills is returning to lead the Warriors once again, bringing with him years of experience and a vision for the future of RLC basketball.
"When [President Terry Wilkerson] first contacted me about taking over the program again, I was surprised to say the least," said Wills. "After a great deal of thought and prayerful consideration, as well as discussion with family, I realized that this was something I was excited about doing. Even though I have been away from coaching for several years, I have never left the athletic department and have never stopped watching basketball as a coach. I believe that over those years I have learned a great deal that will actually make me a better, more effective coach now than I was during my past years in the profession. I have always loved working with young people to help them improve as athletes, students and people. I am really looking forward to this opportunity and appreciate the confidence that President Wilkerson, the college administration and the Board of Trustees has shown in offering me the chance to coach again."
Wilkerson expressed enthusiasm about Wills' return, pointing out his impactful history with the college and its student-athletes. "Tim's been a pivotal figure in our athletic department for many years. He had successis track record speaks volumes, but it's his popularity among players and the quality of coaching that truly sets him apart," said Wilkerson. "We are confident that with Tim at the helm, the Warriors will see great success. His ability to mentor young athletes and his profound knowledge of the game make him the perfect choice to lead our team forward."
Wills coaches his players on defensive technique at a practice in 2008. (Photo by Nathan Wheeler, RLC Marketing & Communications) Click on the image for a larger version.
Wills' coaching philosophy emphasizes not only athletic excellence but also academic achievement and character development. His approach aligns with RLC's mission to provide comprehensive education and support to its students, making him an invaluable asset to the college and its sports programs.
As the Warriors basketball program gears up for the new season under Coach Wills, the RLC community is buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an exciting new chapter. Someone who knows Wills best is Athletics Executive Assistant Julie Oxford.
"I am so very excited that Tim will be back on the sideline leading the RLC Warriors!" Oxford said. "I have worked with him the past 32 years and as an Instructor, Coach and Athletic Director he has made such a positive impact on so many students, players, coaches and colleagues over the years. Tim is a great person, leader and role model and has so much basketball knowledge to share. RLC is fortunate to have someone with his basketball expertise and passion for the game!"
For more information about Rend Lake College Athletics and the Men's Basketball program, please visit Rend Lake College Athletics website.
About Rend Lake College: Rend Lake College is a public, two-year institution located in Ina, Illinois, offering a wide range of academic programs and services. Established in 1967, RLC is committed to providing accessible, high-quality education to enrich our community and empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success.
Media Contact: Nathan Wheeler, Rend Lake College 468 N. Ken Gray Parkway, Ina, IL 62846 Phone: 618-437-5321 Ext. 1234 Email: wheelern@rlc.edu
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