Kothe named new head coach of Ohlone women's badminton

Ohlone College Dean of Kinesiology, Athletics and Performing Arts Chris Warden has announced the hiring of Mitch Kothe as the Renegades' new women's badminton head coach for the upcoming 2025 spring season.

Kothe has over five years of coaching experience at various high schools, colleges, and clubs, including Valley Christian High School, Evergreen Valley College, and Adobe Badminton team.

In his first season as head coach at Valley Christian, his team went undefeated and won division finals for mixed singles while his girl's doubles went to CCS and advanced to the state championships.

At Evergreen Valley, Kothe helped establish the EVC Badminton Club and launched the college's competitive women's badminton team.

Kothe has been playing badminton for over 25 years, including four years at Petaluma High School. He believes that badminton is a fun and engaging sport that anyone can play.

After graduating from Petaluma High School, Kothe attended Santa Rosa Junior College before transferring to Chico State University. He received his bachelor's degree in kinesiology from Chico State and went on to earn his master's degree from San Jose State University in kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise physiology.

In his spare time, Kothe enjoys running, weightlifting, and hiking around the Bay Area. He enjoys exploring the city and discovering new places for hikes and good food.