Evangel hires pro fisherman as first coach for new program

Evangel University hired a professional fisherman to lead a new club sports program.

Brayden Rakes is scheduled to start at the beginning of the fall semester in the part-time role of head coach of Evangel's bass fishing team, according to a news release.

Rakes, the son of Evangel President Mike Rakes, has been the leading money winner for the past six years on the Big Bass Tour’s amateur circuit, taking home more than $120,000 in prize winnings.

“It is really exciting to see Brayden join in with our new emphases on club sports, elevating the EU brand, and getting the message out about Evangel,” said Michael Kolstad, Evangel chief of staff, in the release. “We know he is going to be a great fit for us in this new season.”

Bass fishing is among several new club sports Evangel is launching this fall, along with volleyball, bowling, CrossFit and disc golf. Over the next two years, other club sports to be introduced include archery, axe throwing, cornhole and men's volleyball.

In his role at Evangel, Brayden Rakes also will represent the school at youth conventions and university recruiting events, according to the release.

Rakes has competed in the Toyota Major League Fishing Series and the U.S. Open Championship at Table Rock Lake, and he won the championship on the Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Florida. Rakes’ sponsors include Convoy of Hope and Evangel, according to his website.