Chadron State introduces new basketball coach Chris Francis

Before a sizeable crowd of Chadron staff, coaches and local residents, Chadron State introduced its new head coach for the men’s basketball team at the Chicoine Center on Wednesday, July 17. Acting Athletic Director Dr. China Jude opened the introduction by speaking about Chris Francis’ commitment to developing student-athletes and included several comments from athletic administrators and coaches from across the county.

She attached a statement from Amy Williams, head coach of the University of Nebraska women’s basketball team. “Chadron State made an excellent decision in hiring Chris Francis to lead the men’s basketball program. Chris has an extreme passion for basketball and positively influences young men! He and his family will be a great addition to the Chadron community.”

She included a statement from Wren Baker, a Roger State University alumnus and vice president and athletic director at the University of West Virginia. “Chris Francis is a great coach who knows how to recruit, retain and develop student-athletes at a high level. He is hardworking, ethical and possesses high integrity. He will work to involve the community, alumni and friends to build a program that everyone will be proud of. I look forward to following his success at Chadron State!”
Representative of the Faculty of Athletics and member of the search committee Dr. Brittany Helmbrecht added comments on Francis’ recruiting prowess. Since President Ron Patterson was unable to attend due to a prior commitment, he delivered a 90-second message and introduced Francis to the community coach. After the official introductions, Coach Francis joined student basketball athletes (male and female) to participate in team building games and drills with approximately 45 boys and girls.