Utah Prep Academy Announces Mark Dickel as New Head Coach

Hurricane, UT – May 27, 2025 – Utah Prep Academy is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mark Dickel as the new Head Coach of its basketball program. With over three decades of international coaching and playing experience, Coach Dickel brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to the academy. 

Known for his exceptional leadership skills and commitment to player development, Coach Dickel has made his mark on the global basketball scene. Most recently, he led West Coast Elite AAU to an impressive 30-5 record during the 2023-2024 season. His coaching journey includes serving as the Head Coach of the Philippine National Team from 2020 to 2022, where he guided the team through Olympic and World Championship qualifying matches. Additionally, he achieved remarkable success with TNT KaTropa in the Philippine Basketball Association, posting a record of 52-20 from 2018 to 2021—one of the highest win percentages in league history. 

Coach Dickel’s international experience also includes stints with the New Zealand National Team as an Assistant Coach in 2018 and as Head Coach of the NZNBL’s Canterbury Rams from 2013 to 2018. Under his leadership, the Rams made four playoff appearances and built a formidable 58-28 record. His commitment to youth development is exemplified by his success with the Rams’ Under-19 affiliate, where he led the team to four consecutive national championships and helped 26 athletes secure U.S. college scholarships, including eight at the Division I level. 

In addition to his coaching accolades, Coach Dickel enjoyed a distinguished 17-year professional playing career across multiple countries, representing New Zealand in two Olympic Games and earning numerous accolades, including two Turkish League MVP awards and a FIBA Euroleague All-Star selection. 

“I’m super grateful for the opportunity to be named the new head coach at Utah Prep,” said Coach Dickel. “We’re not just building a team, but a real sustainable program here in Hurricane. The vision is clear, the work starts now, and the future is full of opportunity. It’s time to get to work.” 

Utah Prep Academy President Tai Cecil expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointment, stating, “Mark is a proven leader with an unwavering commitment to developing high-character athletes. His extensive experience and passion for the game make him the perfect fit for our program. We are confident that he will guide our athletes to achieve their fullest potential both on and off the court.” As Coach Dickel embarks on this new chapter, he aims to cultivate a culture of excellence and integrity within the Utah Prep basketball program, using the sport as a platform to develop young leaders for success in college and beyond. 

For more information about Coach Mark Dickel and the Utah Prep Academy basketball program, please visit https://utahprep.com 

Contact: 

Angie Cazier 
Admissions/Marketing 
Utah Prep Academy