Hillcrest Academy Welcomes Alum Stephen Bender as New Head Boys Basketball Coach

Hillcrest Academy is thrilled to announce the appointment of alumnus Stephen Bender ’97 as the new Head Boys Basketball Coach. Bender brings an impressive 23 years of coaching experience, returning to lead the Ravens’ program after a distinguished career that has spanned various levels and locations across Iowa.

Bender’s coaching journey began as a student assistant at Simpson College, laying the foundation for a career marked by dedication and success as he continued to have impactful stints at Indianola High School (Sophomore Coach) and West Branch High School (Head Boys Coach). Most notably, Bender’s leadership extended to the Mid-Prairie High School girls’ basketball program, where as Head Coach, he guided them to a State appearance in 2016.

More recently, Bender has served as an integral part of the Hillcrest Academy basketball staff under longtime coach Dwight Gingerich. Playing under Coach Gingerich and sitting on the coaching bench with him gives Bender a unique insight into the Ravens’ athletic culture and traditions, providing him with valuable experience within the program.

With big shoes to fill, the Hillcrest Academy community eagerly anticipates this exciting new chapter for boys’ basketball under Coach Bender’s love for the game and his experienced hand.

Stephen is married to Samantha, and they live in Wellman with their four boys: Grant ’23, Mason ’25, Rhys ’28, and Bodie (10).