Courtesy of Midland Athletics
FREMONT, Neb. — Midland University head women’s basketball coach Cam Schuknecht has announced the hiring of Natalie Thomas as an assistant coach for the Warriors’ program.
Thomas joins Midland after serving as a graduate assistant at Ashland University, where she contributed to one of the top NCAA Division II programs in the country. During the 2024-25 season, the Eagles advanced to the NCAA Division II Sweet 16 after winning the Great Midwest Athletic Conference championship.
“We are excited to have Natalie join the program,” said Coach Schuknecht. “First and foremost, Natalie is a good person. She brings positive energy to the program and will relate well to our current student-athletes and future recruits.
“In her recent coaching experience, Natalie was an important part of a successful NCAA Division II program. As a young coach, Natalie brings a great basketball mind with strong teaching skills.”
At Ashland, Thomas played a key role in player development, particularly working with guards throughout the preseason, regular season, and postseason. Her responsibilities also included opponent scouting, film breakdown using Synergy and Hudl, and assisting with game planning and in-practice coaching.
In addition to her on-court duties, Thomas contributed to the program’s recruiting operations, evaluating prospects and monitoring the transfer portal. She also assisted with team operations, including travel coordination, and supported external efforts through social media management and donor engagement initiatives.
Thomas earned her Bachelor of Science in exercise science from William Woods University in 2024 and is completing her Master of Business Administration at Ashland, expected in 2026.
A Missouri native, Thomas has also gained experience working at several prominent basketball camps, including Snow Valley Girls Basketball Camps and the Doug Bruno Girls Basketball Camp, further enhancing her teaching and player development background.
