John Pigatti has been appointed head coach of the Spring Arbor University men’s basketball team, taking over from Ryan Cottingham, who built a championship tradition over the past decade. The university announced the hiring on Thursday, highlighting Pigatti’s extensive record of success and his vision for integrating faith, character and service into the program.
A Legacy of Success
With 38 years of collegiate coaching experience, including twenty seasons as head coach at South Suburban College where he posted a 572‑111 record, Pigatti arrives with a résumé that features an NJCAA Division II National Championship and fourteen regional titles. His teams have appeared in the NJCAA Division II National Tournament fourteen times, produced twenty‑one All‑Americans, and captured six National Player of the Year awards. In the 2021‑22 season he guided his squad to a perfect 33‑0 record, earning the National Association of Basketball Coaches Two‑Year College Coach of the Year honor and a place in the NJCAA Region IV Hall of Fame.
Beyond the win column, Pigatti’s H.O.O.P.S. program has ensured that more than ninety percent of his student‑athletes earn four‑year degrees, reflecting a deep commitment to academic rigor and personal development. The initiative blends structured tutoring, mentorship and community service into the daily routine of the team.
Faith and Service at Spring Arbor
Pigatti’s philosophy places character, faith and service at the forefront of the program. He intends to weave these values into practice, recruiting, and campus life, mirroring the mission of Spring Arbor University. University President Dr. Brent Ellis praised the new coach, stating that Pigatti’s record of excellence and his dedication to developing men of leadership and integrity align perfectly with the institution’s goals.
The coach and his family are also planning to embed faith‑based principles into the team culture, emphasizing service projects and community outreach as integral parts of the player experience. This approach seeks to extend the program’s impact beyond the hardwood, fostering leaders who contribute positively to society.
Looking Forward
As the new era begins, the basketball program at Spring Arbor University stands poised to continue its tradition of competitive success while championing the holistic development of its athletes. Pigatti’s leadership promises a future where championships are pursued hand‑in‑hand with personal growth, integrity and service to the broader community.