Cole Dewey selected to speak at inaugural TopConnect Symposium

By Mike Pilosof

Photo by Adam Shrimplin

Garden City, KS-If you ask any basketball coach across the country to name an up-and-comer in the profession, without hesitation, Cole Dewey would be top of mind for most.

"He just has that it factor," Director of Athletics, Greg McVey said. "Just spend some time with him, and you'll understand exactly what I'm talking about."

Others see it too, so it was no surprise that on Friday, the Broncbusters first-year coach was selected to participate in the inaugural TopConnect NJCAA symposium set for Oct. 8 and 9. He is one of 30 men's coaches taking part in this prestigious event.

"I'm extremely grateful to be a part of the inaugural group," Dewey said. "Some of the best coaches in the country were selected, and I am humbled to be alongside them."

Among some of those presenting includes former Junior College coaches Buzz Williams (formerly Navarro College, now Texas A&M), Steve Forbes (formerly Northwest Florida State, now Wake Forest), Jay Ladner (formerly Jones County, now Southern Mississippi), and Chris Jans (formerly Chipola College, now New Mexico State).

"I want to thank everyone who had a part in selecting me to be a part of this awesome opportunity," Dewey added. "I look forward to growing and learning from some of the best in the business."

Back in April, Dewey was listed as one of the 50 most impactful coaches in Junior College Basketball by Silver Waves Media. He was hired by Garden City back in the spring after spending two years revitalizing Otero, which included a pair of 20-win season while leading the Rattlers to as high as No. 4 in the polls during the 2019-20 season.

TopConnect (formerly Villa 7) originated in 2003 by then Virginia Commonwealth Athletic Director, Dr. Richard Sander, identifies the top basketball assistant coaches in the country, and connects them with mid-major Athletic Directors providing tremendous networking opportunities for both parties. The three-word mantra of "Connect. Prepare. Lead." identifies the purpose of TopConnect.