Kodiaks women’s basketball head coach, Ken McMurray, announces retirement

After four official seasons guiding the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks women’s basketball program, head coach Ken McMurray is stepping away from the bench. 

During his tenure, he helped shape one of the ACAC’s most development focused teams. Since taking over the program in the 2021–22 season, McMurray guided the Kodiaks to 43 wins. He made an immediate impact, earning ACAC South Coach of the Year honours in his first season.

His commitment to player development was evident throughout his time, with a Kodiaks player earning Rookie of the Year honours in every season but one, when he coached an All-Canadian athlete. Under his guidance, four players were named First Team All-Conference and two others earned Second Team All-Conference recognition. McMurray was known for guiding young teams that found their stride as the season progressed, consistently putting the Kodiaks in the mix for playoff spots and championship contention in the second half of the year.

McMurray said his return to coaching came unexpectedly.

“Five years ago, Deanna Simpson, who was head coach at the time, asked me to step in as an assistant coach midway through the season. I was already following my daughter, Matlin, during her Kodiaks career and attending every game, so I agreed. It was a blessing, as I had stepped away from coaching while serving as principal at Cardston High School and believed those days were behind me.”

He said moving into the head coaching role was a rewarding experience.

“When Deanna stepped down to start her family, I moved into the head coaching role. I’ve truly enjoyed working with Todd Caughlin, his administrative staff and the other coaches. Most of all, I’ve valued the relationships built with so many outstanding student-athletes. Supporting their development on the court, building team culture and encouraging their academic pursuits has been incredibly rewarding.”

“On behalf of the Polytechnic and the Kodiaks I want to Thank Ken for his time as the women’s head basketball coach,” says Todd Caughlin, Kodiaks Athletics Director. “Ken made an immediate impact and the commitment he brought to building the student athletes in the program over the years showed. We wish Ken the best and know that he will enjoy his real retirement with his family!” 

McMurray said basketball has played a central role in his life.

“Basketball has given me so much, from my days as a player to more than 40 years of coaching. I’ve had the privilege of coaching at the junior high, high school and collegiate levels, and finishing my career with the Kodiaks women’s program has been especially meaningful. I’ll miss the daily interactions, the competition and those moments when everything comes together on the court and you see the confidence grow in your players.” 

He added he is confident in the program’s future.

Deanna Simpson, the 2019-20 ACAC Women’s South Division Basketball Coach of the Year and current assistant coach will assume the head coaching responsibility immediately.  

“I’ve also enjoyed working alongside Deanna Simpson, and as she returns to lead the program, I’m confident it will be in great hands."

McMurray looks forward to spending more time with his family and will continue to enjoy the game from the stands.