WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College Director of Athletics and Head Men's Basketball Coach Matt O'Brien has been honored with the Coach Hutch Passion Award by PhD Hoops USA.

The award recognizes individuals who exemplify passion, enthusiasm, toughness, leadership and integrity through basketball. O'Brien has represented PhD Hoops USA on coaching trips to Austria, Spain, France, Costa Rica and Barbados.

"I'm grateful to be part of the PhD Hoops USA family," O'Brien said. "Through this incredible organization, I've had the privilege to coach in Austria, Spain, France, Costa Rica and Barbados—experiences that have shaped me as a coach and a person."

O'Brien said each international trip has provided opportunities to learn about basketball, experience different cultures and understand the responsibility of representing something bigger than oneself.

"Those lessons and perspectives are something I'm proud to bring back to the players I coach, helping them grow on and off the court," O'Brien said.

The international experiences have also allowed O'Brien to form relationships and create lasting memories through the game.

"Basketball has taken me around the world and given me lifetime memories, friendships and opportunities I'll cherish forever," O'Brien said.

O'Brien serves Southwestern College as its director of athletics and head men's basketball coach.