Men's Basketball

In searching for its replacement for its head Men’s Basketball opening, Oxnard College interviewed six candidates for the position pared down from 18 legitimate applications. Coach Theiler's experience and commitment was part of what made him stand out during the process, according to athletic director Jerry White. "Some people know how to get a job and some people know how to do a job," said White. "In Jeff's case, he interviewed extremely well, but also, based upon his résumé and the experience he's had, he was the type of candidate we were looking for." "We thought (Theiler) would be able to bring the energy and knowledge that the program needs," said White. "He has a clue, he really does."

Coach Theiler, a 1986 Newbury Park High graduate, is a disciple of UC Davis coach Gary Stewart, who coached him at the University of La Verne. Theiler has 14 years of assistant coaching experience at the University of La Verne, Cal State Hayward, Northern Arizona University, Oxnard College and Ventura College. "I'm excited and grateful for the opportunity to coach in the county in which I grew up,"said Theiler. "But I know it's going to be a big challenge." Although the recruiting season began the moment he was hired, it did so with careful consideration of his targets. "More important than good players is good people," said Theiler. "I'm willing to take a step down in talent to take a step up in character."