March 26, 2026
Northland Community & Technical College is proud to congratulate Beth Tvedt, assistant coach for the Pioneers women’s basketball program, on being selected as the 2026 WBCA Two-Year College Assistant Coach of the Year, presented by Aflac.
The Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) annually honors coaches who demonstrate excellence, leadership, and impact on their programs. Tvedt will be recognized virtually through a WBCA press release and social media, as well as in person this spring in Phoenix, Ariz., where an Aflac representative will officially present her with the award during the WBCA Convention on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the Phoenix Convention Center.
Tvedt, a Thief River Falls native and Lincoln High School graduate, has served as an integral member of the Pioneers coaching staff since 2013. During her tenure, Northland has achieved historic national success, including one national championship and two national runner-up finishes, cementing the program as one of the most competitive in the NJCAA.
A Pioneer On and Off the Court
Before joining the coaching staff, Tvedt had a standout playing career as a starter and team captain for the Pioneers. She earned First Team All‑Northern Division, First Team All‑MCAC, and All‑Region 13 honors in 2012, while compiling 438 career points and 269 rebounds during her two seasons at Northland.
After completing her associate degree, she transferred to Mayville State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in University Studies. She currently resides in Thief River Falls and serves as a Business Transformation Analyst at DigiKey.
Program Leaders on Tvedt’s Impact
Shannon Nelson, Head Women’s Basketball Coach, praised Tvedt’s dedication and influence on the program.
“Over her 12 years as an assistant coach, Beth has spent countless hours preparing, planning, and investing in our program. Her commitment to our student‑athletes is unmatched, and our success over the past decade would not be possible without her passion, basketball knowledge, and the genuine care she brings to our team every day. She is the backbone of Northland women’s basketball, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Kelsey McLean, Northland Athletic Director, highlighted Tvedt’s leadership and impact.
“Beth embodies what it means to be a Pioneer. She is widely respected within our athletics program. The WBCA award speaks to her excellence, but what we see daily is her ability to build relationships, strengthen our culture, and elevate the entire women’s basketball program. We’re proud to have her representing Northland on the national stage.”
From the Honoree
“I’m incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” Tvedt said. “This award reflects the amazing student‑athletes I’ve had the privilege to coach and the incredible people I work alongside every day. Northland is a special place, and I’m proud to be part of a program that is committed to excellence on and off the court.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Northland women’s basketball has experienced one of the strongest competitive periods in its history over the past decade. Coaching alongside Head Coach Shannon Nelson, Tvedt has contributed to numerous record-setting seasons, postseason appearances, and a championship culture that continues to shape the lives of student-athletes. (Program history and records available at: https://northlandpioneers.com/sports/2017/4/14/womens-basketball-history)
About the WBCA Assistant Coach of the Year Award
The WBCA Two-Year College Assistant Coach of the Year Award honors an assistant coach who demonstrates exemplary skill, dedication, and service to their student-athletes and institution. Presented by Aflac, the award celebrates those who elevate women’s basketball and inspire future generations of leaders in the sport.