Faith, family, and excellence are the core values exemplified by the recipients of the Ed Thomas Award. Presented in memory of Coach Ed Thomas ’72, who inspired and motivated athletes through these guiding principles, the award honors individuals who carry forward his legacy.
This year’s recipient is Michael “Mike” Morrison, a 2017 inductee into the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. A 1989 graduate of William Penn University with a degree in education, Morrison went on to earn a master’s degree in administration from the University of Northern Iowa in 1993.
After graduation, Morrison returned to his high school alma mater, Central Lee, where he served as an assistant baseball coach for four years. In his fourth season, he helped lead the team to a Class 3A State Championship. He later joined West Delaware High School in Manchester, where he coached for 24 years, including three years as an assistant coach and 21 years as head coach. During that time, he also served as an assistant football coach, taking on responsibilities as both offensive and defensive coordinator.
“I loved being around the players and watching them grow as players and as people. I have a deep love for the game of baseball and thoroughly enjoyed watching the sport grow within the community,” Morrison shared. He not only enjoyed teaching and mentoring his players but also thrived on the strategy and competitive nature of the game. Through baseball, he instilled life skills that extended far beyond the field.
One of his former players recalled, “He was an intense coach but was always looking out for the best interest of his players. He not only taught us things related to baseball but also things that applied to our everyday lives.”
As head baseball coach at West Delaware from 1993 to 2013, Morrison compiled a remarkable 530-263 record. Under his leadership, the Hawks made seven state tournament appearances, captured the 2007 Class 3A State Championship, and secured seven district championships. As assistant varsity football coach from 1989 to 2012, he helped guide the team to a state football title in 1991.
In 2013, Morrison stepped away from coaching to become the school’s Athletic Director and Assistant Principal. In 2017, he accepted what he described as his “dream job,” becoming the first Athletic Director at Liberty High School in Iowa City. There, he played an integral role in building both the athletic programs and the school’s facilities.
“I can’t imagine being more fortunate than I’ve been. I owe it to the kids to give my best effort,” he said. Morrison retired in June 2024.
He and his wife, Tracy, a 1990 William Penn graduate, reside in North Liberty, Iowa. Their two children, Tyler and Haley, both attended pharmacy school at the University of Iowa.
For his lifelong commitment to faith, family, excellence, and the development of young people through athletics and education, William Penn University is honored to present the 2025 Ed Thomas Award to Michael “Mike” Morrison.