Chuck Ruffing Named Assistant Coach at Western Illinois

New Role and Recent Tenure

Chuck Ruffing has been tapped for an assistant coaching position after a season in that same role with Western Illinois during 2025‑26. His most recent head‑coach assignment was at Bryant & Stratton College, where he steered the Bobcats to historic successes. Over two years he compiled a 29‑7 mark, clinched the NJCAA Region 4 Championship, and secured the program’s first appearance and victory in the NJCAA National Tournament.

Earlier College Coaching Stops

Ruffing’s résumé includes assistant coaching gigs at several Division III schools. He worked with Marian, Wisconsin Lutheran and Rockford before moving on to Western Illinois. At Marian, his efforts helped the team earn its second-ever NCAA Tournament berth. His high‑school head‑coach experience adds a youth‑player development angle, having led West Bend East.

Playing Days and Academic Honors

A native of De Pere, Wisconsin, Ruffing played college basketball for both Marian and Concordia Chicago. He distinguished himself academically, receiving NACC Scholar‑Athlete honors during his playing career. This blend of playing, coaching at the college level and leading a high‑school squad gives him a well‑rounded perspective on the sport.

• Western Illinois – assistant coach (2025‑26)
• Bryant & Stratton – head coach, 29‑7 record, Region 4 title, first NJCAA National Tournament win
• Marian – assistant coach, contributed to second NCAA Tournament appearance
• Wisconsin Lutheran – assistant coach
• Rockford – assistant coach
• West Bend East – head coach