Tim Hays

Residing in Superior, Colorado, Tim Hays epitomizes the essence of motivation, leadership, and patience. For over two decades, he has passionately committed himself to nurturing athletes, focusing on their performance on the basketball court and their character and holistic development. He transcends the conventional role of a coach, establishing himself as a friend, a leader, and a mentor who truly understands that sports encompass more than just winning – they are about building character and fostering comprehensive growth.

His journey in basketball, beginning in 2003 as a high school coach in Meridian, Idaho, is a testament to the belief that patience often yields fruitful results. His unwavering dedication to his craft led him to cultivate toughness and discipline in his players, guiding them to many victories. His adaptability and leadership skills were further demonstrated as his career progressed across continents, from Australia to Colorado, culminating in a remarkable tenure at Southeastern University in Florida. Here, his team achieved an extraordinary streak of 106 straight conference wins and six consecutive conference titles, underscoring his exceptional motivational and culture-building prowess.

While coaching professionally in Australia, his significant contributions were recognized with a Coach of the Year award from Basketball Australia, cementing his status as an elite international coach. At the University of Colorado, he continued his trajectory of success, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and diversity and steering the team to their first Sweet 16 appearance in two decades. His tireless efforts in developing players throughout his career are evident in the 52 All-Conference players he coached, 17 of whom signed professional contracts, showcasing his remarkable ability to bring out the best in his athletes.

His personal life has been equally fulfilling, shared with his wife of 21 years, Crista, a former professional basketball player herself. Their journey together, which included joint coaching endeavors, reflects a deep bond over shared interests like travel, horses, and aspirations of owning a hobby farm. In August 2023, he made a significant personal sacrifice by pausing his Division 1 coaching career to care for two terminally ill family members, a profound demonstration of his commitment to family. This act of selflessness and the upcoming 22nd wedding anniversary with Crista are poignant reminders of their shared love and resilience.