Clarke University has named Jim Blaine as its next men’s basketball coach, replacing Jerry Drymon who stepped down after six seasons at Clarke.
"I am pleased to announce Jim Blaine as our head basketball coach," said Curt Long, Clarke’s director of athletics. "Jim brings a wealth of experience, wisdom and success to our program. Our current players enjoyed working with Jim as our assistant coach the past year. They and our recruits are excited to begin a new era under his leadership."
Blaine joined the Clarke men’s basketball coaching staff in 2013. He amassed 281 wins in 20 years as a head coach at the high school level. In 14 years at Benton High School, Blaine led his teams to a 215-115 overall record. His teams won seven conference titles and a league record six in a row from 2007-12. Blaine’s team claimed six regional championships, one sectional championship and his 2009 team captured the WIAA Division 4 State Championship. The 215 wins is the most in BHS school history.
"I’m excited to continue what Coach Drymon has started," Blaine said. "It’s a challenging step in my career, but one I take on with enthusiasm and determination. Thanks to Clarke for taking a chance on me a year ago and for this tremendous opportunity. Go Crusaders!"
Blaine was also the head boys coach at Southwestern for four years and Belmont girls for three prior to Benton. Blaine was a five-time Six Rivers West Coach of the Year honoree. The 2009 AP State Coach of the Year and WBCA State Coach of the Year was a two-time Telegraph Herald All-Area coach of the year. Blaine coached six players who went on to play at the college level and seven players were named to at least one All-State team from Benton, including Clarke’s David Neis.
Blaine has served on the Executive Board of the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association for 17 years and has served as the Co-Director of the WBCA Fall Clinic for those same 17 years. He also coached golf at Cuba City High School for four years, leading the Cubans to the 2012 WIAA Division 3 State Championship.
A graduate of UW-Platteville, Jim and his wife, Brandee, reside in Benton with their three boys. Rex, Eli and Wyn.
For more information, contact the Clarke University Marketing and Communication Office at (563)588-6318.
Clarke University is a Catholic, liberal arts and sciences university dedicated to preparing students who positively impact their workplace, family and community. Academic offerings include more than 40 undergraduate liberal arts and pre-professional programs, a robust adult degree program and six graduate degree programs. Founded in 1843 by the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Clarke is located near the Mississippi River in the thriving city of Dubuque, Iowa. It is the only BVM university in the country.
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