Bryan Tabs Laatsch as New Men's Basketball Coach

(Story provided by Bryan College Communications)

DAYTON, Tenn. - Bryan College is pleased to announce the hiring of Jason Laatsch as the new Men's Basketball Coach. Laatsch succeeds Don Rekoske, who retired after 20 years at the helm, and brings extensive coaching experience and a commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court.

Laatsch joins Bryan College after spending the past three years at Lee University, where he helped lead the Flames to the GSC Tournament each year and secured two NCAA Tournament appearances. He played a key role in recruitment efforts and was deeply involved in all aspects of the program, including game and practice preparation, scouting, academic oversight, and player development. During his tenure at Lee, Laatsch coached three All-GSC selections, one D2CCA All-Region player, and one D2 NABC All-Star. His coaching philosophy emphasizes not only athletic success but also the spiritual and personal development of players, making him a perfect fit for Bryan College.

"I am very humbled and thankful for this opportunity to become a member of Bryan College," said Laatsch. "I want to thank Athletic Director Dr. Jeremy Deal and President Dr. Mann for this incredible opportunity. I look forward to working with our student-athletes and helping them achieve their goals spiritually, academically, and athletically. My wife, Lydia, my daughter, Avery, and I cannot wait to meet everyone involved and get started!"

Dr. Jeremy Deal, VP of Athletics, commented on the hire, stating, "Jason Laatsch is a proven leader with a deep commitment to the development of young men. His coaching experience and passion for our mission make him an excellent choice to lead our men's basketball program. We are excited to see the impact he will have on our student-athletes and the larger Bryan College community."

A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Laatsch has an impressive playing history, having finished his career with the University of West Florida as one of the program's all-time best players. He played a pivotal role in coaching UWF to its first Gulf South Conference tournament title in 2018.