Calgary, AB - Mount Royal University Cougars Athletics and Recreation has named Josh Mullen its new head coach of the men's basketball program, announced by Director of Athletics and Recreation Karla Karch. Mullen comes to MRU after spending nine seasons at the University of Victoria, where in recent years he was the lead assistant coach for the nationally-ranked Vikes program.  

"Throughout our search process, it became more and more evident what a special opportunity Mount Royal presents in the basketball community," Karch said. "I want to thank all stakeholders involved in our thorough hiring process, including current Athletics staff, student-athletes, alumni, and many other individuals near and far in the basketball community. We could not be more excited to turn the reins over to Josh to continue building and shaping our high-performance culture as we pursue Canada West and U SPORTS championships.

A major influence in the Vikes men's basketball program's recent CW and U SPORTS success, Mullen is highly regarded for his player relationships, superior teaching skills, and tireless work ethic in student-athlete recruitment.  Since 2016 Josh has also been at the helm of Vikes Nation, as the Club Director and Head Coach for U15, U16, and U17 boys basketball teams that grew from an average team in the Pacific Northwest to the top U17 team in British Columbia, featuring some of the top players in the province.

"My family and I couldn't be more excited for this incredible opportunity at Mount Royal University," stated Mullen. "I want to thank Rob (Godfrey, Varsity Athletics Associate Director) and Karla for believing in me and my vision for the program. I am looking forward to bringing that vision to life and putting down roots in Calgary."

The 2024-25 season will mark the 13th for the Cougars competing in Canada West and U SPORTS.

"We look forward to welcoming Josh and his family into our MRU community this spring," added Karch. "The future is bright for MRU men's basketball."