Jake Nickelson

Athletic Director
Head Baseball Coach

Jake Nickelson, who is embarking on his second year as both an educator and coach at VBHS. Prior to joining the VBHS community, Jake coached at Poplar Bluff for 3 years and another 3 years at Winona. This is his 1st year as Athletic Director at Van Buren.

Jake's own athletic background adds a layer of depth to his coaching prowess. He spent 2 impactful years as a player at Three Rivers College under Stacey Burkey before transitioning to the University of Central Missouri, where he caught under Kyle Crookes for 2 more years. Holding a bachelor's degree from the University of Central Missouri, Jake is in pursuit of his Master's Degree.

Jake's inaugural year as head coach bore fruit as the Bulldogs achieved a commendable record of 32-20.

Together with his wife, Brittany, he embraces the joys of parenthood as they nurture their 2-year-old daughter, Chloe. The Nickelson family has chosen to call Van Buren home, adding to the sense of community that defines Jake's role within VBHS.

As Jake steps onto the field and into the classroom, his dual role as teacher and coach propels him to shape not only athletes but also young minds. With every practice, every game, and every lesson, Jake embodies a spirit of growth, mentorship, and perseverance that resonates with his students and players alike.

(573) 323-4295, Ext. 2

jnickelson@vanburen.k12.mo.us

Jacob Black

Head Boys Basketball Coach Head Golf Coach

Coach Black is excited to be entering his 6th year as the Head Men’s Basketball Coach and his 15th year overall at VBHS. In his 5 years at the helm, the Bulldogs have achieved an overall record of 73-48. He guided the Varsity team to the 2019-2020 Big Springs Conference Championship along with being named Conference Coach of the Year. He has coached 8 All-Conference players along with the Conference Player of The Year. 6 All-District selections and 3 players that received scholarships to play at the next level. Prior to being named the Head Coach, he was the assistant for 8 years and Head J.V coach for 3 years. A Lifelong Bulldog, he is a 1993 graduate of VBHS. While playing for the Bulldogs he was a member of the 1992 State Championship team. After graduation he attended Central Methodist and played for Hall of Fame Coach Jeff Sherman. He received his bachelor's degree from Columbia College. He and his lovely wife (Chastidy) have one daughter (Lani) currently a Junior at Missouri State. “Coaching gives me the vehicle to hopefully help mold, inspire, and influence young people to be better citizens and give them the drive to achieve great things”.

Joby Marvin

Head Cross Country Coach Head Track Coach

Coach Marvin has taught in the Van Buren elementary for many years along with his wife, LaDawyna, also an educator. They have two children Noah and Adria. Coach Marvin graduated high school from East Carter, receiving and Associate of Arts degree from Three Rivers, a Bachelor of Science in Education from Southwest Baptist University and a Masters in Educational Administration from William Woods University. He has spent time supporting and coaching summer baseball and softball teams of his children. With his daughter’s interest in cross country and running he has supported her and her team and accepted the track position when it became available. This position has given me a challenge that is very rewarding. Being in a small district we have to take advantage when opportunities come to help support our students.

Alexis Wetzel

Head HS Cheer Coach

Justin Hills

Assistant HS Boys Basketball Coach Assistant JH Boys Basketball Coach

Coach Hills is married to Lisa Hills who has taught in VB elementary for the past 20 years.  He has two sons that attend VBHS Hayden a senior and Holden a freshman. Coach Hills graduated from VBHS and went to College at Three Rivers and graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture.  For the past 17 years he has had a career with the Missouri Department of Transportation, currently he is the Southeast District General Service Manager. Justin’s coaching career started when his boys were young playing t-ball, baseball and basketball. Justin and his wife Lisa have been involved in the community of Upward sports and is currently in their 11th season.  Upward is a Christian based program that teaches the game of basketball and Christian values. He has a passion for basketball and believes it instills hard work and setting goals in young kids, preparing them to succeed through future adversity. In his spare time he enjoys farming, hunting and fishing with his family.

Jalynn Morgan

Assistant HS Girls Basketball Coach Head JH Girls Coach

Logan Hogan

Assistant Softball Coach

I am married to Caleb Hogan and we have one son, Xander. I graduated from VBHS and went to College at Three Rivers on a full ride softball scholarship. I am currently enrolled back in college to receive my bachelors degree. For the last 5 years I have raised poodles and labradoodles for service dog programs. My husband, Caleb, owns Hogan’s Excavating and helps out as much as he can with our softball program making sure we have what we need as far as grounds work. I have always had a passion for softball and I believe it plays a huge part in practical skills, time management, and numerous health benefits. 

In my spare time I enjoy spending my days with my son, my dogs, and my husband, hunting, and going to the river