LassenSportsNetwork.com

After accumulating 234 wins as head women’s basketball coach at Lassen Community College, Mark Nareau was, “mildly” searching for a new challenge. Monday, (06/08) he found it.

 
Lassen Community College President, Dr. Douglas Houston, confirmed to Lassen Sports Network (LSN), that Nareau would be taking over the Lassen College men’s basketball program, replacing Ben Riley, who stepped down in May.
Filling the void left by Nareau’s move to the men’s program will be Dorinda Schaffer. It will be Schaffer’s second stint as the Lady Cougars head coach. Schaffer led Lassen to the final eight in 1994, losing to eventual state champion, L.A. Harbor.
“I’m really excited.” Said Schaffer in a phone conversation. “I love to coach at the junior college level. It really challenges me.” Schaffer again stated, “I’m truly excited to be back coaching the Lassen College women.”
Schaffer has also worked as an assistant coach under Nareau and former Lassen College head coach Gary Kloppenburg, and has been the head coach of the Lassen High School Lady Grizzlies.
Having crafted a winning percentage of .667 over an eleven year career as  head coach of the Lady Cougars, Nareau takes over a men’s program that has seen the postseason just once in the last six years. Asked why he wants to make the move now, Nareau responded, “I was ready for a new challenge. I’ve enjoyed the women’s game tremendously, but it’s time for a new hurdle.”
Over his eleven years as head coach of the Lassen College Lady Cougars, Nareau compiled a record of 234-117, with six Golden Valley Conference championships and two final eight appearances. Nareau’s teams went to the playoffs in ten of his eleven seasons. Nine Lassen College players have earned All-State honors under Nareau’s guidance.
For more on this story, including more from our conversation with Nareau, check out our Tuesday, (06/09) audio sports update.