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» OLIVIA POYER ANNOUNCED AS INAUGURAL HEAD WOMEN'S BEACH VOLLEYBALL COACH.
6/6/26 │WOMEN'S BEACH VOLLEYBALL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA -- GRACE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS ANNOUNCES OLIVIA POYER AS INAUGURAL HEAD WOMEN’S BEACH VOLLEYBALL COACH.
Former NCAA Division I Athlete and Coach to Lead the Talons Into a New Era
POMONA, Calif. — Grace University Athletics has secured one of the most significant hires in program history.
In a move that immediately establishes credibility and championship ambition for its newest varsity sport, Grace University proudly announces the appointment of Olivia Poyer as the inaugural Head Women’s Beach Volleyball Coach.
As Women’s Beach Volleyball continues its meteoric rise across the collegiate landscape, Grace University has made a bold statement about the future of its athletic department by bringing in a coach with NCAA Division I playing experience, NCAA Division I coaching experience, championship pedigree, and a passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the sand.
For aspiring beach volleyball players throughout Southern California, across the nation, and around the world, another pathway to collegiate competition has officially arrived.
And Grace University intends to become a destination.
“This is a monumental day for Grace University Athletics,” said Les Bean, Director of Athletics.
“Women’s Beach Volleyball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America, and we knew from the beginning that we needed a transformational leader to launch our program. Olivia brings elite-level playing experience, Division I coaching experience, and a genuine passion for developing young women. She represents everything we want Grace University Athletics to become. This hire instantly elevates our program and sends a message that we are serious about competing at a high level from day one.”
Poyer arrives at Grace University following her time with Missouri State University, where she served as an assistant coach for the NCAA Division I beach volleyball program.
Prior to beginning her coaching career, she established herself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Missouri State Beach Volleyball history.
During the 2024 season, Poyer competed in all 33 matches while posting an outstanding 25-7 overall record, helping lead the Bears through one of the most successful campaigns in program history.
Competing primarily at Flight No. 3, she opened the season with a remarkable 10-match winning streak—the longest in program history at that position—and earned victories against top-level competition throughout the year. Her performance culminated in earning the prestigious AVCA Top Flight Award, one of the highest individual honors in collegiate beach volleyball.
Beyond her success on the sand, Poyer was a consistent academic standout and multiple-time member of the Missouri State Athletics Director’s Honor Roll, embodying the balance of academic achievement and athletic excellence that Grace University values deeply.
Before her time at Missouri State, Poyer spent four successful seasons competing in indoor volleyball at the University of Saint Katherine in Southern California.
Over 90 collegiate matches, she established herself as a reliable libero and defensive specialist while helping lead the Firebirds to a California Pacific Conference Beach Volleyball Championship in 2021.
Her collegiate journey ultimately led her to NCAA Division I competition, where she continued to excel against some of the nation’s best players before transitioning into coaching.
A native of Long Beach, California, Poyer’s story is one built upon perseverance, dedication, and opportunity.
As a first-generation college graduate from an immigrant family, she understands firsthand the life-changing impact athletics and higher education can have on young people pursuing their dreams.
That perspective is one of the many reasons Grace University believes she is the ideal person to build its Women’s Beach Volleyball program from the ground up.
“Beach volleyball has opened doors in my life that I never imagined possible,” said Poyer. “The opportunity to build a program from the beginning is incredibly special. I am honored to join Grace University and excited to help create an environment where student-athletes can grow as competitors, leaders, and individuals. Together, we’re going to build a culture that emphasizes excellence, accountability, faith, and opportunity. I can’t wait to get started.”
The addition of Women’s Beach Volleyball represents a significant milestone in the continued growth of Grace University Athletics.
Nationally, beach volleyball has become one of the fastest-expanding collegiate sports over the past decade. Increased participation, scholarship opportunities, Olympic visibility, and institutional investment have transformed the sport into one of the most exciting emerging opportunities for female student-athletes.
Grace University’s commitment to launching Women’s Beach Volleyball provides yet another avenue for local, national, and international athletes to pursue their academic and athletic goals while competing in Southern California—one of the premier beach volleyball regions in the world.
“This is bigger than a coaching hire,” Bean added. “This is about creating opportunities. Every year there are talented young women looking for a place to continue their athletic careers and pursue a degree. Grace University is committed to providing that opportunity. Olivia understands our vision and shares our passion for building something truly special. Together, we’re laying the foundation for a program that will impact lives for years to come.”
As Grace University Athletics continues its historic inaugural expansion, the hiring of Olivia Poyer serves as another defining moment in the department’s rapid rise.
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A former NCAA Division I student-athlete.
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A former NCAA Division I coach.
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A proven competitor.
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A proven leader.
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And now, the architect of Grace University’s future in Women’s Beach Volleyball.
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The sands are set.
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The foundation is in place.
And the rise of Grace University Women’s Beach Volleyball has officially begun.
ABOUT OLIVIA POYER
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Inaugural Head Women’s Beach Volleyball Coach – Grace University
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NCAA Division I Assistant Coach – Missouri State University
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NCAA Division I Beach Volleyball Student-Athlete – Missouri State University
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AVCA Top Flight Award Recipient (2024)
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Multiple-Time Missouri State Athletics Director’s Honor Roll Selection
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Four-Year Collegiate Indoor Volleyball Student-Athlete – University of Saint Katherine
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California Pacific Conference Beach Volleyball Champion
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Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
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Master of Public Health
WELCOME TO GRACE UNIVERSITY, COACH POYER
#TalonsUp
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» DEAN MCBRIDE ANNOUNCED AS SPORTS INFORMATION & GAMEDAY COORDINATOR.
6/4/26 │ATHLETICS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA. -- AMPLIFYING THE TALONS EXPERIENCE. Grace University Athletics is proud to officially announce the hiring of Dean McBride as the department's Sports Information & GameDay Coordinator.
As the Talons continue building one of the most exciting new athletic programs in the country, every great movement needs a storyteller. Every great program needs a voice.
Dean McBride is that voice.
Before arriving at Grace University, McBride established himself as one of Southern California's emerging sports communicators, serving as the in-house Public Address Announcer at Life Pacific University where he earned recognition as the prestigious "Voice of the Warriors."
His journey began at his alma mater, Brea Olinda High School, where he developed a passion for bringing athletic events to life and creating unforgettable experiences for student-athletes and fans alike.
Over the past two years, McBride has announced more than 100 collegiate and high school athletic contests, earning a reputation for professionalism, energy, preparation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
But his role at Grace University extends far beyond the microphone.
As Sports Information & GameDay Coordinator, McBride will oversee athletic statistics, media relations, game-day operations, event management, content coordination, and the storytelling efforts that will help define the identity of Talons Athletics for years to come.
With a sharp analytical mind and relentless attention to detail, McBride understands that every game has a story.
Every athlete has a journey.
Every moment deserves to be remembered.
His vision aligns perfectly with Grace University's mission of developing student-athletes through faith, character, and competitive excellence.
"Grace University is building something special," said McBride. "This is more than athletics. It's an opportunity to build a culture rooted in Christian values while creating an experience that our student-athletes can be proud of. I'm excited to help tell those stories and contribute to the future of Talons Athletics." -Les Bean, Director of Athletics
As the inaugural era of Grace University Athletics continues to take shape, Dean McBride will play a critical role in amplifying the voices, achievements, and experiences of every Talon who wears the navy, sky blue, and neon green.
The foundation is being built.
The stories are waiting to be told.
And the voice behind the next chapter has officially arrived.
#TalonsUp
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» NICK ESCALERA NAMED INAUGURAL HEAD BASEBALL COACH AT GRACE UNIVERSITY.
4/29/26 │BASEBALL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA -- Grace University Athletics is proud to announce the appointment of Nick Escalera as the inaugural Head Baseball Coach in program history.
A Southern California native with a deep passion for player development, analytics, and championship culture, Escalera brings a unique blend of professional playing experience, collegiate coaching expertise, and modern baseball innovation to the Talons.
His journey through the game has been defined by one constant principle: helping athletes maximize their potential while building programs the right way.
Before arriving at Grace University, Escalera served as the Head of Data & Analytics at California State University, Los Angeles, where he played a vital role in utilizing advanced metrics, player performance analysis, and strategic evaluation to enhance team success. His ability to merge traditional baseball fundamentals with modern analytical approaches has made him one of the rising young minds in the game.
Prior to his time at Cal State LA, Escalera gained valuable collegiate coaching experience at Nobel University and College of the Desert, helping student-athletes develop both on and off the field while contributing to program growth and recruitment efforts.
A graduate of La Sierra High School in Riverside, California, Escalera’s playing career took him to Bethany College, where he competed for two seasons before launching a professional baseball career in the independent ranks of the Pecos League.
Over four professional seasons, Escalera suited up for the High Desert Yardbirds, California City Whiptails, and Tucson Saguaros. His professional journey culminated in a Pecos League Championship in 2020 with the Tucson Saguaros, providing firsthand experience of the commitment, discipline, and competitive mindset required to win at the highest levels of the game.
While pursuing his professional career, Escalera simultaneously began building his coaching résumé during the offseason. He returned to his alma mater as a junior varsity assistant before spending three seasons as the Varsity Hitting Coach at Norte Vista High School, helping develop hitters and mentoring young athletes through critical stages of their growth.
His coaching career continued to expand nationally through collegiate summer baseball, where he worked in some of the country’s most competitive developmental leagues. Escalera has coached in the Ohio Valley League, Palm Springs Collegiate League, Sunset League, and California Collegiate League, gaining valuable experience working with collegiate players from across the nation and helping prepare them for the next level.
Now, as the founding leader of Grace University Baseball, Escalera brings a comprehensive understanding of the game from every angle—player, recruiter, instructor, analyst, and mentor.
His vision for the Talons Baseball program is built upon player development, competitive excellence, character, faith, and opportunity. Combining modern baseball analytics with a relentless commitment to fundamentals, Escalera is committed to building a program that develops complete student-athletes and establishes Grace University as a rising force in collegiate baseball.
As Grace University embarks on its inaugural baseball journey, Coach Escalera’s experience, energy, and passion for the game provide the foundation for what promises to be an exciting new era for Talons Athletics.
The rise of Grace University Baseball begins with a builder, a teacher, and a competitor—and Coach Nick Escalera is ready to lead the way.
#TalonsUp
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» RICKY RODRIGUEZ APPOINTED HEAD BROADCASTER AND OFFICIAL VOICE OF TALONS TV.
5/28/26 │ATHLETICS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA. -- THE UNHEARD VOICE HAS ARRIVED. Grace University Athletics Names Ricky Rodriguez as Head Broadcaster and Official Voice of Talons TV.
Grace University Athletics is proud to officially announce the appointment of Ricky Rodriguez, better known throughout the basketball community as “DUBL R,” as the inaugural Head Broadcaster of Grace University Athletics and the official play-by-play voice of Talons TV.
In a move that continues to separate Grace University from the traditional small-college athletics model, Rodriguez will lead all broadcast operations for Talons TV, providing live play-by-play coverage of Grace University home athletic events, exclusive postgame interviews, feature stories, behind-the-scenes content, and original programming designed to elevate the student-athlete experience to an entirely new level.
This partnership represents a bold statement by Grace University Athletics: small-school athletics no longer has to think small.
For years, collegiate broadcasts have been reserved for larger institutions with significant budgets and established media departments. Grace University is changing that narrative.
With Rodriguez behind the microphone, every Talons game becomes more than a contest—it becomes a story.
Every student-athlete becomes more than a roster spot—they become a featured voice.
Every moment becomes an opportunity to build a movement.
A New Era of Coverage
Known for his energy, authenticity, and passion for sports storytelling, Rodriguez has built a reputation as one of Southern California’s most respected independent sports media personalities. His ability to connect with athletes, coaches, and fans has earned him recognition across multiple levels of competition.
Now, he brings that same passion and professionalism to Grace University Athletics.
As Head Broadcaster, Rodriguez will serve as:
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Official Play-by-Play Voice of Talons TV
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Lead Broadcaster for all Grace University home contests
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Host of postgame interviews and feature segments
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On-air ambassador for Grace University Athletics
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Content contributor for special events, recruiting showcases, and championship coverage
The Power of Visibility
At Grace University, the mission extends beyond wins and losses.
The department is committed to creating opportunities, exposure, and unforgettable experiences for every student-athlete who chooses to become part of the Talons family.
Adding a dedicated Head Broadcaster is another step toward building one of the most innovative and student-athlete-centered athletic experiences in the country.
While many small colleges struggle to provide consistent media coverage, Grace University is investing in storytelling, branding, and visibility—ensuring that every athlete has a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
The Voice of the Movement
Rodriguez’s arrival comes at a pivotal time as Grace University prepares for the launch of its inaugural athletic programs and the continued expansion of the Talons brand throughout California and beyond.
His voice will become synonymous with some of the most important moments in program history:
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The first home game.
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The first championship run.
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The first record-breaking performances.
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The first generation of Talons student-athletes.
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And through it all, one voice will tell the story.
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A Message from Grace University Athletics
“We aren’t building an athletic department. We’re building a movement.”
“Ricky Rodriguez understands the power of storytelling and the importance of creating experiences that people remember. His passion, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make him the perfect voice for Talons TV. This is the type of cutting-edge partnership that is rarely seen in small-school athletics, and we’re excited to have him leading our broadcasts as we continue to raise the standard for what collegiate athletics can be.”
Welcome to Talons TV, The microphone is live. The cameras are rolling. The movement continues. And now, the voice behind it has arrived.
Welcome to Grace University Athletics, Ricky Rodriguez.
The Unheard Voice is ready to be heard.
#TalonsUp
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» GRACE UNIVERSITY NAMES EVAN CAMPERELL HEAD MEN'S SOCCER COACH.
4/29/26 │MEN'S SOCCER
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA -- Grace University Athletics has made a powerful statement about the future of its men’s soccer program, announcing the hiring of Evan Camperell as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach, ushering in a bold new era for the Talons.
A proven builder. A seasoned competitor. A culture architect.
Entering his 20th season as a collegiate head coach, Camperell arrives at Grace University with a reputation for building programs with identity, toughness, and purpose. His appointment signals more than a coaching hire, it marks the beginning of a movement.
Most recently, Camperell launched and led a first-year program at Nobel University, transforming a brand-new team into an immediate competitor while navigating a demanding small-college schedule. His debut campaign was highlighted by a statement 4–0 victory over an NAIA opponent, showcasing his ability to organize, motivate, and win.
Before Nobel, Camperell served as head coach at Oklahoma Panhandle State University, adding to a coaching résumé defined by vision, player development, and sustained competitive success.
A Builder Takes the Throne
Grace University believes the foundation of championship culture begins with leadership, and in Camperell, the Talons have secured a leader hungry to build something special in Southern California.
“This is an opportunity to create a legacy,” said Camperell. “To take raw pieces and mold them into a team that can make history, this is why you coach.”
That mentality aligns seamlessly with the rising ethos of Grace Athletics.
Camperell brings a builder’s mindset, a relentless competitive edge, and a passion for developing student-athletes on and off the pitch. His vision for Grace Men’s Soccer centers on recruiting high-character talent, playing courageous soccer, and establishing a program that reflects the ambition of a university on the rise.
A New Era Begins
This hire represents another major step in the launch of Grace University Athletics and reinforces the university’s commitment to building elite opportunities within a faith-centered environment.
Director of Athletics Les Bean called the hire transformational.
“Coach Camperell knows how to build. He knows how to lead. And he knows how to win,” said Bean. “We weren’t looking for someone to simply coach a team, we were looking for someone to establish a standard. Evan is that leader, and we believe he will ignite something special here at Grace.”
With two decades of head coaching experience and the hunger of a first-year founder, Camperell now takes the throne to lead the Talons into their inaugural rise.
The foundation is being laid. The culture is being formed. The rise has begun.
WELCOME TO THE NEST, COACH CAMPERELL.
#TalonsUp
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» KRAZYNICE x GRACE U ATHLETICS ANNOUNCE LANDMARK APPAREL PARTNERSHIP.
4/28/26 │ATHLETICS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA. -- Grace University Athletics is proud to officially announce a groundbreaking strategic partnership with KrazyNice as the Official and Premier Game Uniform and Team Apparel Provider for all Grace U Athletics programs.
In a move that signals bold ambition, innovation, and a commitment to redefining what small-college athletics can become, this partnership establishes a new standard for branding, recruiting, and elite athletic identity at Grace University.
This is more than an apparel agreement. This is a statement. A statement that even a rising small Christian university can operate with a national vision.
A statement that excellence is not reserved for the largest institutions. A statement that Grace U Athletics intends to look different, move different, and build different.
Through this alliance, every Grace U team, from Men’s Basketball, Men’s Soccer, Baseball, Women’s Flag Football and beyond, will compete in premium, custom-engineered uniforms and lifestyle gear designed by a company known for innovation, edge, and performance.
Founded in 1999, KrazyNice has spent decades engineering custom apparel and limited-edition collections while supplying elite uniforms and gear for major brands, collegiate programs and professional sports organizations. Their reputation has been built on creativity, craftsmanship, and a fearless commitment to athletes who #DefyOrdinary.
Now, that spirit joins the rise of Grace U. A Partnership Designed to Revolutionize Small College Athletics. This collaboration represents a powerful model of what is possible when strategic alliances meet cutting-edge vision.
For Grace University, this partnership elevates:
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Recruiting Power - premium brand presentation that resonates with domestic and international student-athletes
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Program Identity - distinctive uniforms and apparel that strengthen the Talons brand nationally
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Marketing & Exposure - innovative co-branding opportunities that amplify reach and storytelling
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Student-Athlete Experience - elite-level gear designed for performance, pride and culture
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Brand Enhancement - positioning Grace U as a modern, forward-thinking athletics movement
At a time when many small universities accept limitations, Grace University is choosing innovation. This alliance proves that small schools can think big. And execute even bigger. The Rise Wears a New Standard Fans, recruits and supporters can expect:
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Exclusive game uniform reveals
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Limited-edition team drops
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Premium sideline and training apparel
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Collaborative merchandise collections
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Signature pieces built for athletes and supporters alike
This is only the beginning.
Together, Grace U Athletics and KrazyNice are creating something rarely seen at the small-college level, a true performance and lifestyle brand ecosystem.
Not just uniforms. Not just apparel. A movement.
Leadership Perspective
“This partnership is about far more than what we wear, it’s about what we represent,” said Les Bean, Director of Athletics. “KrazyNice shares our belief that bold vision and relentless creativity can break traditional limits. Together, we are building a brand, a culture and an experience for student-athletes that truly Defies Ordinary.”
About KrazyNice
KrazyNice is a premium athletic performance apparel company founded in 1999, specializing in custom-engineered uniforms, elite teamwear, and limited-edition performance lifestyle products for programs and athletes who demand more.
About Grace U Athletics
Grace University Athletics is building a bold new era of small-college athletics rooted in faith, excellence and opportunity, where student-athletes compete, grow and rise together.
THE RISE BEGINS NOW.
#TalonsUp | #KrazyNice
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» GRACE UNIVERSITY MAKES A POWER MOVE: DEON COLEMAN JOINS TALONS ATHLETICS LEADERSHIP/MBB COACHING STAFF.
4/12/26 │ATHLETICS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA -- Veteran Leader Deon Coleman Named Assistant Director of Athletics & Associate Head Coach for Men’s Basketball; Will Oversee Sports Information
Grace University has made a statement hire.
In a move that continues to build elite momentum toward its Fall 2026 athletics launch, Grace University proudly announces the addition of Deon Coleman as Assistant Director of Athletics, Associate Head Coach for Men’s Basketball, and lead of Sports Information and Athletic Communications.
This is not just a hire.
This is a strategic acquisition of experience, leadership, and championship DNA.
THE NEXT PIECE OF THE FOUNDATION
As the Talons prepare to take flight, Grace University is assembling a leadership team built for impact, and Deon Coleman arrives as one of the most important pieces of that foundation. With decades of experience across coaching, recruiting, player development, and athletic administration, Coleman brings a rare dual-threat ability to lead both behind the scenes and on the court. His presence instantly elevates the trajectory of Grace University Athletics.
A LEADER BUILT FOR THIS MOMENT
Coleman will serve in a multi-dimensional role critical to the success of the department:
Assistant Director of Athletics
Helping shape the operational backbone of Grace University Athletics, supporting day-to-day administration, program structure, and strategic growth.
Associate Head Coach — Men’s Basketball
Working alongside Head Coach Les Bean, Coleman brings veteran leadership, recruiting expertise, and player development experience to a program being built to compete at a national level from day one.
Sports Information & Athletic Communications
Coleman will lead the voice of Grace University Athletics, overseeing:
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Media relations
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Game operations and statistics
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Digital storytelling and brand presence
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Press, coverage, and national exposure
In today’s era of athletics, visibility is power—and Coleman will be the architect behind the Talons’ national narrative.
A PROGRAM ON THE RISE
The addition of Coleman signals one thing clearly: Grace University is not easing into college athletics.
It is attacking it.
With leadership rooted in experience and vision, the Talons are being built to:
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Compete at the highest levels of small-college basketball
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Establish a nationally recognized brand
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Create exposure-driven opportunities for student-athletes
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Build a culture defined by discipline, belief, and relentless pursuit
STATEMENT
“Deon Coleman is a game-changer. His experience, his presence, and his understanding of how to build and sustain programs make him an invaluable addition to what we’re creating at Grace. This is exactly the type of leader you bring in when you’re serious about building something elite.”
THE MESSAGE IS LOUD
Grace University continues to send a clear signal across the collegiate athletics landscape:
This is not a startup. This is a takeover in motion. With each addition, the Talons grow stronger. With each move, the vision becomes clearer. And with Deon Coleman now in place, the standard just elevated.
LOOKING AHEAD
As Grace University continues to build toward its inaugural season, additional announcements regarding staff, programs, and partnerships are expected in the coming months.
The message remains clear:
The Talons are not just launching, they’re being built to rise.
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» LES BEAN OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED AS DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS & HEAD MBB COACH AT GRACE UNIVERSITY (CALIFORNIA).
4/10/26 │ATHLETICS
BY: JOHN CHARITY, PRESIDENT
POMONA, CA -- Veteran Program Builder to Lead Launch of Grace U Athletics. Grace University (California) has officially announced the hiring of Les Bean as its Director of Athletics and Head Men’s Basketball Coach, marking a defining moment in the university’s expansion into intercollegiate athletics. In addition to his leadership of the men’s basketball program, Bean will also serve as the Interim Head Women’s Flag Football Coach during the inaugural build of the program for the 2026–27 academic year.
A STATEMENT HIRE THAT SHIFTS THE LANDSCAPE
With this historic move, Grace University has positioned itself as an immediate force in small school collegiate athletics, set to compete in the USCAA, then with plans to apply for NCCAA membership in 2027-28, and within the SWS (Southwestern States Conference).
The announcement has already sent shockwaves throughout the small-college athletics community, as Bean departs Nobel University after orchestrating one of the most rapid and impactful program builds in recent memory.
THE ARCHITECT OF MODERN PROGRAM BUILDING
Over the past three years, Bean redefined what is possible in small-college athletics:
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Built a nationally recognized athletic department from the ground up
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Increased institutional enrollment by an unprecedented 10,000%
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Secured nearly 10 ESPN-featured broadcasts in just two seasons
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Competed against elite programs across NCAA Division I, Division II, NAIA, and NCCAA
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Established a national recruiting and branding footprint
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Launched more than five different intercollegiate sports teams (men & women)
His work is nationally recognized -- blending competition, media exposure, and enrollment growth into one unified model.
LEADING THE LAUNCH OF GRACE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Now at Grace, Bean takes on the challenge of building from day one, again. Under his leadership, Grace University Athletics will officially launch with, Men’s Basketball and Women’s Flag Football. Baseball, Soccer and Women's Beach Volleyball will round up the initial sports teams.
A BUILDER WITH 20+ YEARS OF IMPACT
With more than two decades of experience, Bean is widely regarded as one of the premier program architects in the country.
His leadership is defined by:
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Relentless recruiting innovation
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Elite-level scheduling and exposure
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Culture-driven team building
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Visionary branding and storytelling
Grace University didn’t just hire a coach or administrator, they secured a program creator.
POSITIONED FOR NATIONAL RELEVANCE
By placing Bean at the helm of both athletics and its flagship sport, Grace University is signaling a clear vision:
Compete nationally. Build relentlessly. Grow without limits.
This move aligns athletics with the university’s broader mission of Christ-centered growth, exposure, and opportunity, creating a platform for student-athletes to compete on a national stage while pursuing life-changing academic pathways.
STATEMENT
“Grace called, and this time, it wasn’t just about building a program. It was about building a movement. From day one, this will be about competing at the highest level, creating opportunity, and establishing a standard that hasn’t been seen before.”
LOOKING AHEAD
With the foundation now set, Grace University Athletics will begin its rise with:
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Official team launches in 2026–27
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National recruiting campaigns across the U.S. and internationally
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Strategic scheduling against top competition
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Continued announcements regarding staff, facilities, and partnerships
ABOUT GRACE UNIVERSITY (CALIFORNIA)
Grace University is an emerging institution committed to developing leaders through academic excellence, faith-based values, and competitive athletics. Located in Southern California, Grace is rapidly building a reputation as a destination for student-athletes seeking opportunity, exposure, Christ-centered culture and purpose-driven competition.
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
» GRACE UNIVERSITY OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS FOR FALL 2026.
4/1/26 │ATHLETICS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
POMONA, CA -- The Talons Take Flight as Grace University Unveils a Bold New Era in Collegiate Competition.
Grace U has officially announced the launch of its athletics department, with intercollegiate competition set to begin in Fall 2026, marking a historic new chapter for the institution and the beginning of a bold vision for student-athletes in Southern California and beyond.
Competing under the name Grace University Talons, the university will enter the collegiate athletics landscape with a powerful mission: to build a nationally respected program rooted in faith, opportunity, excellence, and impact.
The official launch of Grace University Athletics signals more than the addition of sports programs. It represents the beginning of a movement—one designed to create life-changing opportunities for student-athletes seeking a competitive platform, a Christ-centered environment, and an academic path with purpose.
A NEW ERA TAKES FLIGHT
With the Fall 2026 launch, Grace University is stepping onto the national stage with a vision to establish one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking small-college athletic departments in the country. The Talons brand will embody energy, ambition, and fearless pursuit—bringing together high-level competition and a culture built on development, discipline, and belief.
Grace University Athletics will be built to serve student-athletes who are hungry for more: more growth, more visibility, more challenge, and more purpose.
“This is a defining moment for Grace University,” the university said in its official announcement. “Athletics will be a major pillar in our future, and the launch of the Talons marks the start of something powerful—something designed to impact lives on the field, in the classroom, and far beyond graduation.”
BUILT FOR THE MODERN STUDENT-ATHLETE
Grace University Athletics is being designed to meet the needs of today’s student-athlete—providing competitive opportunity while cultivating leadership, character, and long-term success. The department’s vision is centered on building an environment where athletes can thrive spiritually, academically, and athletically.
The launch reinforces Grace University’s commitment to becoming a destination for student-athletes who want to compete at a high level while being part of a university experience that is deeply personal, mission-driven, and future-focused.
Under the Talons banner, Grace will emphasize:
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High-level collegiate competition
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Faith-based leadership development
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Intentional recruiting and program building
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A culture of excellence, accountability, and growth
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A modern athletic brand built for visibility and momentum
THE TALONS IDENTITY
The introduction of the Grace University Talons gives the university a bold and memorable athletic identity—one that reflects strength, precision, fearlessness, and rise. The Talons name represents an aggressive and confident competitive spirit, while also symbolizing elevation, vision, and pursuit.
As the university prepares for launch, the Talons brand is expected to become a central part of Grace’s expanding footprint in collegiate athletics, recruiting, media, and campus life.
With dynamic branding, a clear institutional vision, and growing anticipation around its inaugural teams, Grace University is positioning itself to make an immediate statement in the small-college athletics world.
LOOKING AHEAD TO FALL 2026
The launch of Grace University Athletics in Fall 2026 will begin with foundational program development, strategic recruiting, staff expansion, and continued public announcements regarding sports offerings, leadership, schedules, facilities, and partnerships.
The university expects excitement to continue building as additional milestones are released in the months ahead.
Grace University’s message is clear:
The future is here. The Talons are rising. And Fall 2026 will mark the official beginning of a new era.
ABOUT GRACE UNIVERSITY
Grace University is a Christ-centered institution committed to developing leaders through education, opportunity, and purpose. With a vision for innovation and impact, Grace is building a transformative experience for students who are ready to pursue excellence in their academics, faith, and future.
Media Contact:
Grace University Athletics
Email: CoachBean@GraceU.edu
University Website: GraceU.edu
Athletics Website: GraceUAthletics.com
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