Bio

Deanna Simpson was named head coach of the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks women's basketball program in 2026, returning to lead a program that has been a significant part of her journey as both an athlete and coach for more than a decade.

A proud Kodiaks alumna, Simpson played for the women's basketball team from 2013 to 2015. During her playing career, she earned ACAC First Team All-Star and CCAA All-Canadian honours in 2013-14, while helping the Kodiaks capture an ACAC Gold Medal and CCAA Silver Medal in 2015.

Simpson's coaching career with the Kodiaks began immediately following her playing days as an assistant coach from 2015 to 2017 before taking over as head coach from 2017 to 2021. During her tenure, the program earned consecutive ACAC playoff appearances in 2018-19 and 2019-20. She was recognized as the 2019-20 ACAC South Division Coach of the Year and coached two ACAC Rookies of the Year, three First Team All-Stars, and two Second Team All-Stars. Simpson returned to the coaching staff as an assistant coach from 2023 to 2026 before being named head coach once again.

Prior to joining the Kodiaks, Simpson enjoyed a successful collegiate playing career throughout Alberta and the United States. She attended North Idaho College from 2008 to 2011, helping the Cardinals capture SWAC Regional Championships in 2009, 2010, and 2011, as well as the 2011 NJCAA National Championship. She continued her academic and athletic career at the University of Lethbridge during the 2011-12 season before joining the Kodiaks in 2013.

Originally arriving in Lethbridge in 2011 to pursue basketball at the university level, Simpson quickly developed strong roots in the community and has called Southern Alberta home ever since.

"I look forward to continuing the culture of excellence that has made this program successful, while striving for growth, championship-level performance, and a commitment to winning both on and off the court."

Simpson holds an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree from North Idaho College, a Bachelor's degree from the University of Lethbridge, and a General Studies Diploma from Lethbridge Polytechnic.