Coach Purdy begins his eighth season as head coach of Principia College women's basketball. Following the 2006-2007 season, he was named the SLIAC Co-Coach of the Year. Norm has worked with men and women at all levels of the sport over a 38-year period.
Before coming to the college, Norm served as head girls' varsity basketball coach at Principia Upper School for six years, where the Lady Panthers enjoyed a combined record of 104-51, two league championships, and three District final appearances. Coach Purdy was also athletic director of the Upper School from 1996-99.
Prior to coming to Principia he coached high school boys' basketball in Oregon, where his AAU teams won two state championships.
"Our success is predicated on the creation of a series of 'championship minutes' both in practice and in games. A thirst for excellence in all aspects of our athletic experience underlies everything we do. Through a consistent focus on the 'perfect model' and a constant expectation of good, both our team and individual experience is maximized."
Assistant Coach Sarah Jarvis
Coach Jarvis enters her second season coaching basketball, though she is not new to the game by any means. Jarvis has a profound love for the game and finds it crucial for athletes to love hard work, while maintaining a joyous attitude.
Jarvis started playing basketball in the fourth grade and continued playing through her junior year of high school. When she went off to IndianaStateUniversity on scholarship for Cross Country and Track, it looked as if her basketball days were over. However, Jarvis decided to complete a fifth year of study and transferred to Principia. At Principia, she played point-guard and was a huge factor in the 2006-7 Lady Panther 19-7 season record.
Jarvis received her bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from ISU. Graduating with Cum Lade honors, Jarvis is known for her hard work and dedication to athletics. She loves to see athletes improving the talent God gives them. Jarvis knows the importance of living honestly and meekly. She strives to embody these ideals by honoring God in everything she does and recognizing the infinite potential in herself and others.
Assistant Coach Tom Cowart
After graduating from Principia in the spring of 2006 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Thomas Cowart joins the Principia Women’s Basketball team. He spent his last two years at Principia as the manager for the women’s team. After those two years, he decided that he might one day wish to pursue a career as a basketball coach. Thomas was welcomed back for an additional season so that he can better understand everything that is involved in being a coach. He is very excited to be back and is ready to take an active role in the team.
