Jarrett Mentink

My name is Jarrett Mentink - I am 56 years old and have been affiliated with Seattle Pacific University since 1995 when I began my Falcon journey as an assistant men's basketball coach. After a few years with the program, I decided to head to graduate school at Washington State University, where I completed my Master's Degree in Athletic Administration and PhD in Higher Education. I returned to Seattle Pacific University and coached one more season of men's basketball prior to becoming a faculty member. I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Health & Human Performance Department. I am the founder of 5ToolBooks – I author sports star children's books for professional sports organizations.  Each book shares a positive message with kids via rhyming children's poetry, the team's mascot, and a player the organization chooses to feature.  My company has produced 16 books – We have done projects for the Mariners, Seahawks, Sounders, Diamondbacks, Tigers, Rays, and Royals.  I have done over 100 speaking visits at elementary and middle schools in the Northwest, Arizona and California – sharing an anti-bullying message with kids. I reside in Kent, WA, with my wife (Angie) and two teenage boys (Jaxen & Chase).  

Seattle Pacific University – Asst. Professor_(2012-Present)

As a member of the Health & Human Performance Department at Seattle Pacific University, I teach Psychological Aspects of Health & Physical Activity, Coaching and Training seminars, Administration & Organizational Leadership courses that explore leadership of health/physical activity courses, and interpersonal development.

Kids In The Clouds/5ToolBooks - Founder/Author (2002-Present)

Created a non-profit partnership with Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air to put reading material on airplanes for kids. I have published 16 stories – each “Sports Star Book” shares a positive moral message in rhyme with kids. These books have been used as ballpark giveaway items for the Mariners, Seahawks, Sounders, Diamondbacks, Tigers, Rays and Royals. I have done over 100 motivational speaking events at elementary and middle schools in the Northwest, California, and Arizona-- sharing an anti-bullying message with the students. We have raised money for charity with many of the sports star book projects- such as the Edgar & Holli Martinez Foundation that supports teachers of color, Seattle Children's Hospital, & the Boys & Girls Club.

Sumner HS Boys Basketball Interim Head Coach (2022/2023

Stepped into the position two weeks prior to the season, as their previous coach was facing criminal allegations of misconduct – led the team to the Washington State Basketball tournament and was voted 4A SPSL North Division Coach of the Year.

Seattle Pacific University – Adjunct Faculty (2004-2012)

Courses included: Coaching and Training Methods, Psychological Aspects of Sport and Physical Activity, Administration of Programs.

University of Washington – Adjunct Professor (2006)

Collaborated to develop the curriculum and instruct a graduate level course in the College of Education's Masters in Intercollegiate Athletic Leadership program, during the inaugural year.  This program prepares those who aspire to leadership in intercollegiate athletics.           

Todd Beamer High School – Men’s Basketball Coach (2003-06)

Helped lay the foundation for the Titan Men’s Basketball Program as the first men’s basketball coach in school history. Voted 4A SPSL Coach of the Year in 2005/2006 season.

Seattle Pacific University – Asst. Professor/Asst. Men’s Basketball (2001-2002)

Instructed undergrad/graduate courses and assisted men’s basketball. 

Seattle Pacific University – Asst. Men’s Basketball Coach (1995-1997)

Assistant men’s basketball coach under the leadership of Coach Ken Bone. Directed weight-training and conditioning programs, monitored scholastic achievement of student-athletes, recruited student-athletes, and implemented individual skill building workouts with players.                           

Tacoma Community College - Men’s Basketball Asst. (1994-95)

Head Assistant Men’s basketball coach for Carl Howell. Shared recruiting, training, and scholastic achievement responsibilities.             

             Washington State University, Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education, 2001

             Washington State University, Masters in Athletic Administration, 1998

            University of Washington, Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, 1993