Opie Butler

Opie Butler begins his second season back to the hardwood as the Women's Basketball Coach for Graceland University after a seven year absence. Prior to Butler's return, the Yellowjackets won just four conference games and had a record of 10-82 over the previous three seasons. Picked to finish last in the pre-season poll, GU was in the hunt for a Heart of America Athletic Conference playoff spot heading into the final day of the regular season. The Jackets finished a respectful season at 13-15.

Butler returned to Graceland in 2004 after a five-year stint working for the United States Department of Defense in the position as Director of Athletics and Director of Recreation. In 2004 and 2005 he was the Director of Football Operations for GU.

In addition, Butler's coaching background includes three seasons as the Men's Associate Head Coach for
the United States Army (his teams had a record of
86-16 against NCAA Division I teams), three seasons as a Men's and Women's Head Basketball Coach at the international level and four seasons at Graceland as the Men's Assistant Coach under Graceland Hall of Fame Coach, Rich Harrop (the Yellowjackets posted their first 20 plus win season in the university's history).

Coach Butler's team has become known for their
up-tempo offense and pressing defense. This style of play has substantially increased the game attendance.

Butler received his Bachelor of Arts degree in recreation from Graceland University. In addition to his coaching duties Coach Butler will serve as the Coordinator of Indoor Athletic Facilities and Operations. He resides in Lamoni with his wife, Kyong, of 19 years and their daughter, Amanda, a senior at Lamoni High School. Amanda was a 2007 Iowa High School State Golf Champion.