Lyon College Athletic Director Kevin Jenkins has announced Matt Petersen as the next head coach of Scots women’s basketball.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Matt Petersen as the new leader of our Women’s Basketball program. Matt brings an impressive track record of strategic game-planning, player development, and an unwavering commitment to both athletic and academic excellence,” said Jenkins. “His vision for the program perfectly aligns with the competitive spirit and values of Lyon College, and we can’t wait to see the positive impact he will have on our student-athletes both on and off the court.”
Petersen comes to Lyon with almost two decades of coaching experience, having served most recently as an assistant coach at NCAA Division I Stetson University where he helped lead the Hatters to a 20 win season, the Atlantic Sun Conference Semifinals, and an appearance in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament. He brings a wide breadth of experience across all levels of collegiate coaching, integrating lessons learned at the NCAA Division II, III, and NAIA level. His stops include the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Pacific University, Rhodes College, Knox College, Olivet Nazarene University, St. Francis, Elmhurst University, and Illinois Wesleyan University.
“I am incredibly excited and grateful to be named the head women’s basketball coach at Lyon College. From the moment I arrived on campus and into the community, I could feel that this place was special and filled with so much potential,” said Petersen. “I would like to thank President Dr. Melissa Taverner, Director of Athletics Kevin Jenkins, Assistant Athletic Director James McIntyre, and all of the other outstanding colleagues in the athletic department and across campus for believing in my ability to lead this program. I am excited to begin building meaningful relationships, investing in our student-athletes, and sharing the possibilities of a Lyon College education and experience with everyone.”Petersen brings a proven track record of developing student-athletes, coaching numerous All-Conference selections throughout his career. This past year he had three players recognized with All-ASUN honors, with one being unanimously selected. His teams have been consistently ranked nationally or in conference, placing among the top in offensive and defensive statistical categories.
“My vision is to build a program that pursues excellence in all of its commitments. I want our student-athletes to understand that only they themselves can put a limit on their capabilities, and to have all the tools and knowledge at their disposal to pursue their goals with a sense of relentless enthusiasm,” said Petersen. “We will strive to make everyone associated with Lyon College- athletes, students, faculty/staff, alumni, and the Batesville community proud.”
He is a native of Spring Valley, Illinois, earning his bachelor’s degree in Education from Illinois State University.
https://lyonscots.com/news/2026/6/18/matt-petersen-named-new-head-women.aspx
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