University of Redlands Head Coach Jim Ducey ’78 has announced he is entering phased retirement, stepping down from his current role as men’s basketball head coach, while remaining a senior member of Bulldog Athletics and continuing to teach courses in physical education. Ducey is a member of the Bulldog Bench Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame. In his 29 years at the University, he has led four different teams (women’s tennis, men’s tennis, women’s basketball, and men’s basketball) to Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championships.
“While [Ducey’s] robust list of achievements is impressive, it is likely impossible to capture in words how he has mentored and influenced thousands of young people, students, colleagues, and friends alike, throughout his coaching career,” says U of R Director of Athletics Jeff Martinez.
Eric Bridgeland will step into the role of U of R men’s basketball head coach. Bridgeland most recently served in this position for Whitman College and led that team to three Northwest Conference titles; in 2017, his team advanced to the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Final Four.
“Coach Bridgeland’s teams are not only successful on the court, but have a demonstrated history of embracing the Division III philosophy of strong academic performance and a commitment to community service,” says Martinez. “All of those factors, along with a very impressive track record of successful fundraising efforts, make him a great fit for Bulldog Athletics and the University of Redlands.”
Read more stories from the Summer 2020 issue of Och Tamale Magazine.
