WATERTOWN, Wis. -- Maranatha Baptist University announced today a transition in the staffing of its Athletics Department, as Rob Thompson ('84) will transition to the University's role of Assistant Vice President for Admissions and Recruitment after his 18-year tenure as Athletic Director and 21-year tenure on the Athletics staff. Paul Brown will assume the title of Athletic Director after serving for two years as Assistant Athletic Director, becoming the eighth Athletic Director in Maranatha's history.

Thompson - or "Coach T" - will stay on to coach his final season of Maranatha Softball, where he has served as head coach since 2006. Brown will retain the title of Head Women's Basketball Coach, where he is in the middle of his second season. The transition is already in progress, as both Thompson and Brown have begun learning the administrative duties of their new roles. 

In Thompson's mind, Brown is the perfect man for the job.

"For the past year and a half, I have observed Coach Brown's passion for coaching, his work ethic as an assistant athletic director, his love for his family, and most importantly, his devotion to his Savior. I am confident to turn over the leadership of the athletic department to such a competent and well-balanced man. Coach Brown's athletic background is very similar to mine as many have noted that we think and act along the same lines. He and I have often commented, 'that is exactly what I thought' when determining the best course of action on a project or problem. 

Though change is not always easy, it is often necessary for the continuation of a facet of ministry, and I am pleased to see Coach Brown step into this new role. Having been part of the MBU family for this past year and a half, the transition will be relatively smooth and seamless. We have worked diligently together to build a competent and well-balanced coaching staff for 2024-25. As I move into another phase of ministry at MBU, I won't be far away, and will always be on the 'sidelines' to cheer and encourage the Sabercats to victory on and off the playing field or court." - Rob Thompson

Thompson fills the role of Assistant Vice President with the goal of providing direction and leadership to enrollment processes and practices - a task right in Thompson's wheelhouse.

"Coach T's combination of care for the students, passion for Maranatha, and steadfast leadership make him the perfect individual to assume the role of Assistant Vice President for Admissions and Recruitment. He certainly knows how to build and lead a successful team! Rob leaves the Athletics Department in very good hands. Paul Brown's enthusiasm for ministry, organizational skills, and unflappable optimism will serve him well as AD. I look forward to working with him directly in the days ahead with Coach Brown at the helm of Maranatha's athletic programs. The Lord continues to marvelously provide for the needs of the ministry at Maranatha. It's an honor to serve with so many godly leaders who desire to invest their lives in the next generation for God's glory." - Dr. Matt Davis.

Brown assumes the role of Athletic Director with experience, as he filled that role at Tri-City Christian Academy (Chandler, Arizona) for 19 years before moving his family to Maranatha. Brown enters the role looking forward to what's in store for the future of Sabercat Athletics.

"What this means for me is to continue the rich tradition that's been paved before me, I'm thankful for the previous ADs and specifically, the last 20 years where Rob has made vast improvements for the school. And [in this role] I get to do what I love, which is helping student-athletes. I truly believe that we can use the tool of athletics to show people who Jesus is, and if we can keep the mindset of glorifying Him first, then what a great blessing to see our student-athletes and how they grow, not just on the field or court but also in Christ. I'm excited for this opportunity because I know we have fabulous coaches and great student-athletes. I remember that my AD in my college experience changed my life forever, and I pray that I can be a small piece of the experience that these student-athletes will gain and have lasting memories of how the Lord led and guided them." - Paul Brown

For more on Coach Thompson, visit his bio here.
For more on Coach Brown, visit his bio here.