MENOMONIE — University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic head men's basketball coach
Tom Webb has announced the addition of
Charlie Bender as an assistant coach for the Blue Devils.
Bender joins the UW-Stout coaching staff with experience as both a collegiate basketball player and a coach at the youth, high school and club levels. During his collegiate playing career at UW-Platteville, the Pioneers captured the 2024 Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) regular-season and tournament championships.
"Charlie brings a great understanding of our league and the daily commitment it takes to compete for championships," head coach
Tom Webb said. "He has connected with our players right away and is invested in their development, both on and off the court. His energy and passion for the game make him a tremendous addition to our staff as we continue building a program centered on high standards, development and lifelong relationships."
Bender played basketball at UW-Platteville where he studied English Professional Writing from 2021-2026.
Bender brings several years of coaching experience to UW-Stout. Most recently, he served as head coach of the Wisconsin Playmakers Basketball 15U/16U 2028 Class on the P32 New Balance Circuit during the 2025-26 season. He also served as the head junior varsity coach and assistant varsity coach at Cambridge High School during the 2025-26 school year.
Prior to his time at Cambridge, Bender served as the head coach of the seventh-grade boys basketball team in the Platteville School District during the 2024-25 season.
Throughout his coaching career, Bender has gained experience in player development, team leadership and competitive basketball at multiple levels.
