UPEI Men’s Basketball adds two new assistants to coaching staff

University of Prince Edward Island Men's Basketball Head Coach Tim Kendrick is excited to announce the addition of Tim Butler and Jonathan Lane to the Panther staff as assistant coaches.

Coach Kendrick comments, "I am very excited to have both of these fine young men join our coaching staff. After getting to know them better over the past couple of years, it was apparent to me that they would be great additions to our team. They are committed, hardworking young men who have exhibited great loyalty and passion for our Panthers program.

"I believe that it is extremely important to constantly be looking to improve our program in every way," he adds. "I believe that Jon and Tim bring not only fine and keen basketball minds and very positive attitudes, but also a love and passion for working with student-athletes within the great game of basketball and beyond. I expect to put them right to work in helping us build towards another successful season."

Butler is a former Panther, who played from 2006–10, and was team captain his last two years on the roster.  Butler's previous coaching experience includes Colonel Gray Colonels head coach 2013–15, Colonel Gray assistant coach 2012–13, and was a former UPEI Men's assistant coach 2010–11.

"I am extremely excited for the opportunity to be a part of the continued development of the Men's Basketball program at UPEI," says Butler. "This program is something very special to me. I was at my first Panthers game when I was 5 days old and being able to grow up with them and eventually play for them was a true honour. I am thankful to be able to take the next step as a coach and for the opportunity Coach Kendrick has given me. I can't wait to work with the great student-athletes we have at UPEI and help bring a championship back to the Island."

Lane, native of Saint John, NB graduated from UNBSJ in 2006 where he played basketball from 2002–06 and was team captain during his final three years. After graduation from UNBSJ, Lane went on be an assistant coach with the team from 2007–09.

"I am looking forward to being a part of the UPEI Men's Basketball program this season and grateful for the opportunity provided by Director of Athletics and Recreation Chris Huggan and Coach Kendrick," says Lane. "I have followed the team since I moved to the Island in 2010 and have been fortunate enough to be around the team while working with the Athletics department. I believe Coach Kendrick has developed a winning program that is close to taking the next step and look forward to contributing in any way I can."

While taking on assistant coaching duties, Lane will remain as Coordinator, Sales and Panther Academy with UPEI Athletics and Recreation.