47 wins, an elite 8 appearance, a conference championship along with 2 conference coach of the year awards is what Indiana Wesleyan got out of one of the youngest head coaches in the nation during Greg Tonagel's first two years leading the Wildcats. What makes this turnaround so amazing is the fact that the school had only won a total of seven games while finishing dead last in conference prior to coach Tonagel's arrival. A former Valparaiso University point guard known for his hard work and energy has brought exactly that to the campus of Indiana Wesleyan.

 

A new era in Wildcat basketball began April 1st, 2005 when Greg Tonagel was introduced as the Men's head coach. Experience gained from leading his Valparaiso Crusader's to four NCAA tournament appearances as a starting point guard along with the tutelage of mentor Homer Drew, Tonagel has helped orchestrate one of the biggest turnarounds in college basketball. In his first year, his team doubled their overall win total and more than tripled their conference win total from the previous year. Excitement and campus enthusiasm was at an all time high until the Wildcats followed up with an even better year. Second consecutive conference coach of the year, Tonagel guided Indiana Wesleyan to a school record 30-5 along with a trip to the Elite 8. The Wildcats also won their first ever conference championship. Making a name for him-self when it come program building, Coach Tonagel has done it through sound developmental teaching and high caliber recruiting.

 

At the completion of the 06-07' campaign, Tonagel's Wildcats ranked in 16 different statistical categories among the national leaders. Known for their defense, the Wildcats led the nation in scoring defense at 59 pg at the completion of the regular season. They also ranked in the top ten in six defensive categories. Although it all starts on the defensive end for the Wildcats, an up-tempo aggressive offensive style that utilizes skilled and creative play has rejuvenated the "Luckey Lunatics" making Luckey Arena a fantastic place to experience a basketball game. Tonagel and his staff have introduced innovative offensive style that players want to be a part of and fans desire to see.

 

Perhaps the biggest influence that Coach Tonagel and the staff have had on the program is the work ethic that they have instilled. His teams play with passion and toughness. It doesn't matter if his guys are writing a paper, helping a neighbor or working out in the gym, he demands that you be committed and give everything you can. Many consider his weight and conditioning programs to be some of the toughest around. Players learn to bond together, which is the only way to survive these grueling workouts.