South Medford’s Tom Cole Named NFHS Section 8 Girls Basketball Coach of the Year

South Medford High School’s Lady Panthers basketball program has long been a symbol of excellence, and much of its success is credited to Head Coach Tom Cole. Recognized for his remarkable contributions to high school athletics and his impact on the community, Coach Cole has been named the 2023-24 Section 8 Girls Basketball Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

This prestigious honor highlights Coach Cole’s exceptional leadership, philosophy of coaching, and his lifetime commitment to shaping athletes both on and off the court. Nominated by the Oregon School Activities Association, Coach Cole was selected based on his team’s performance during the 2023-24 season, as well as his contributions to the community and the sport.

Coach Cole’s achievements in basketball are extraordinary. Under his leadership, the Lady Panthers have transformed from a struggling program into a powerhouse. When he took over the program, the team had a 1-48 record. Within five years, the Lady Panthers won their first state championship, became nationally ranked, and made history as the only team in Oregon’s large-school classification to finish a season with a perfect 30-0 record.

In his 17 seasons, Coach Cole has led the Lady Panthers to an impressive 373-99 record, with four additional wins so far this season, and four state titles. His teams have reached the final eight state championship tournaments in 14 of the past 15 seasons. The Lady Panthers have also earned 12 undefeated SWC league championships, with a conference record of 186-28 under his guidance. Coach Cole has been named SWC Coach of the Year 11 times, OSAA Coach of the Year twice (2012, 2024), and Oregon Coaches Association Coach of the Year four times (2012, 2013, 2020, 2024). He is currently a finalist for the NFHS National Coach of the Year.

Beyond his accomplishments on the court, Coach Cole is passionate about empowering youth. He is a co-founder of Kids Unlimited, a nonprofit organization that has been serving vulnerable communities for nearly 25 years. Today, Kids Unlimited provides education and development programs to more than 2,500 students through preschool, charter school, afterschool, and summer programs.

Coach Cole’s dedication has also impacted the lives of more than 35 Lady Panther student-athletes, who have gone on to earn college scholarships, many at the highest NCAA levels.

South Medford High School and the Medford School District congratulate Coach Cole on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his ongoing commitment to excellence and community service.