North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) has announced the appointment of Gach Gach as the Interim Head Men’s Basketball Coach, following the departure of Stu Engen, who has taken a position joining the coaching staff at Idaho State University.
A 2017 graduate of NDSCS, Gach Gach (pronounced GOTCH GOTCH) brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. During his time as a player for the Wildcats, Gach was instrumental in leading the team to a remarkable 59-9 overall record, securing two Mon-Dak Conference Championships, two Region XIII Championships, a District Championship, and a National Tournament appearance. Gach’s individual contributions were recognized with numerous Conference and Regional honors.
Following his tenure at NDSCS, Gach transferred to West Texas A&M where he continued to excel, helping his team to a 66-8 record and leading them to back-to-back Elite Eight and Final Four appearances. His stellar performance earned him Lone Star Conference honors. Over his four-year college career, Gach amassed an outstanding overall record of 125-17.
An Austin, Minnesota native, Gach earned his bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University, and returned to NDSCS in 2022 as an Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach.
Gach Gach shared his excitement about this new chapter: “As an NDSCS alum, I’m really excited at this opportunity to lead the Men’s Basketball program along with my fellow coaches. We are eager for the fall to get our team together to start the new season. I’m honored to have been given this responsibility.”
The Head Men’s Basketball Coach position will remain interim until a new Athletic Director is hired, and the ultimate decision regarding the permanent head coach will be made by them.
NDSCS President Rod Flanigan expressed his confidence in Gach’s leadership during this transitional period: “During this transition time, we are steadied by having the entire coaching staff’s expertise and guidance to keep our successful program on track and continue our quest for a National Championship. Although the final head coaching decision will be made by the new Athletic Director, we are confident in the leadership of Gach and his staff.”
Stu Engen’s departure marks the end of an era for NDSCS Athletics. Engen, who was named the Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Director of Athletics on May 30, 2012, transformed the Wildcats into a basketball powerhouse. Under his leadership, the team achieved a record of 323-60, won seven Region XIII titles, and secured seven Mon-Dak Conference championships, among numerous other accolades. Engen’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Wildcats.
The search is currently underway for a new Athletic Director.
