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Kruger named IC women’s coach

Kelly Kruger has been tabbed as the new Iowa Central head women’s basketball coach.

Jordon O’Brien left the Tritons for an assistant role with Missouri Southern State University to be closer to her family following the 2015-16 season, which saw Iowa Central finish 16-8 and tied for third in the ICCAC.

Kruger emerged from a deep pool of candidates, according to Iowa Central athletic director Rick Sandquist.

“It was a good process and Kelly just came to the forefront,” Sandquist said. “We are excited to have him. He brings a lot of knowledge to the program and experience. He is a hard-nosed guy and should be fun to watch.”

Kruger, born in Little Rock, Iowa, has spent the past 30 years coaching women’s basketball at various levels. He sports a career record of 429-358 on his resume.

“He has been a winner wherever he has gone,” Sandquist said. “That and the experience he brings are what really made him an attractive candidate. He is ready to come in and work hard, and work the right way.”

Kruger’s previous coaching stop before joining Iowa Central came with Ashford University, which closed the Clinton-based campus. He directed the school to a record 25 wins in 2014-15 and a conference title the year prior, along with the first NAIA tournament appearance and win in school history.

Other stops during his coaching career include Adams State University and Southwest Minnesota State University. Kruger led Adams State to the NCAA Div. II tournament and advanced to the Sweet 16, while he was a three-time NSIC coach of the year with Southwest Minnesota State.

“He’s willing to put in the time it takes to create a successful program,” Sandquist said. “And he brings a lot of energy to the team.”

The Tritons open the 2016-17 season on Nov. 1 at home against the Grand View JV. They hold their yearly scrimmage on Oct. 12 inside Hodges Fieldhouse.

Kruger and his wife, Patti, have three children.

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