For the first time in his career, the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan has honored Brandywine girls basketball coach Josh Hood as the Class C Coach of the Year.

The award was a surprise to Hood, who has been named regional coach of the year five times, including this past season.

“I am extremely honored to be named the state of Michigan Class C Coach of the Year,” Hood said. “I also understand that head coaching awards are not possible without great players, assistant coaches, parents and administrative support. Over my seven years at Brandywine I have been very fortunate to have all of that.”

Since taking over the program seven years also, Brandywine has been 162-13. The Bobcats have won multiple conference, district and regional championships.

Brandywine reached the state semifinals twice over that stretch — 2010 and 2016.

“I would also like to give a special thanks and congrats to what I consider the best assistant coaches in the state,” Hood said. “Kalie Wieger, Nicole Newman, Patrick Touhey, Katie Koster, Staci Balos and Diane Smith are a huge reason why our program is successful and work countless volunteer hours to help lead our young student-athletes on and off the court.

“I am very grateful for all they do and this award in my eyes is a coaching staff award. A huge thanks also goes to our athletic director Vance Stratton, who is always supportive of our program.”

Hood also knows it takes talent, hard work and dedication to have the type of success that the Bobcats have had the last seven years.

“Lastly, I would like to thank the 150-plus young ladies who participate in our Brandywine girls basketball program and make me feel on a daily basis like the luckiest coach in the state,” he said. “A record of 162-13 over the past seven years comes down to fantastic players who work very hard at the game. However, their best quality has nothing to do with basketball. It is they are phenomenal young ladies who represent our school and community with class.”

Sal Konkle of Marshall was named the overall 2016 BCAM Coach of the Year.

The Class A Coach of the Year was Mike Lee of Warren Cousino, the Class B coach was Kim Legge of Grand Rapids South Christian and the Class D coach was Dan Smith of Gaylor St. Mary Cathederal.

The regional coach of the year awards are decided by BCAM member voting, while the state coach of the year awards are picked by the coach of the year chairman and committee.