Bethany Lutheran College Athletics

Originally from Thorton, Iowa, Younge played basketball at Bethany Lutheran College from 1961-63. After earning a degree from Mankato State, Younge came back to Bethany in 1967 where he coached the men’s basketball team (1967-86) and baseball team (1967-72). He was also the athletic director from 1977-86.

 

Best known as the Viking’s basketball coach, Younge compiled a 251-191 record over 19 season. His teams won three MCCC Southern Division titles from 1980-82. The 1981 squad won the consolation championship in the State Tournament, the following year the Vikings finished fourth. Younge was voted MCCC Coach of the Year in 1982. In 1986, he received the NJCAA Region XIII Service and Achievement Award. He was president of both the MCCC and the MCCC Basketball Coaches Association.

 

Younge served as Dean of Academic Affairs until retiring following the 2010 academic year. In his honor for service at Bethany Lutheran College and his impact on Viking Athletics, the South Gymnasium in the Sports and Fitness Center is now called the Ronald Younge Gymnasium.