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Nearly three months after announcing the addition of a bowling program, Marshalltown Community College has its first head coach.

Marshalltown native Nathan Clark has been announced as the Tigers’ first bowling coach ahead of its debut season in 2026-27.

Clark has also the head coach of the Marshalltown High School boys’ bowling program for the last four seasons. The Bobcats have qualified for 11 of the last 12 state tournaments with two state titles in that time.

“Being born and raised in Marshalltown, this opportunity is especially meaningful to me,” said Clark. “The fact that MCC is launching a new program creates a unique opportunity to expand access to collegiate bowling and contribute to the growth of the sport. Building something from the ground up, particularly in a community that has given me so much, is something I take great pride in.”

Clark brings over three decades of experience to the Tigers’ newest athletic venture, having been involved in the sport since he was 5. Growing up with a grandmother who lived across the street from a bowling alley, the sport naturally became a second home for Clark. This early exposure provided him with opportunities to travel across much of the country competing in tournaments and performing at a competitive level throughout his career. He also bowled collegiately at AIB College of Business from 2014-2016.

Clark arrives at MCC with an impressive coaching resume primarily built at MHS. After volunteering with the local USA Youth Bowling program in 2021-22, he joined the Bobcats in November 2021. During that first postseason, Clark was asked to take over the program, ultimately guiding both the team and an individual to runner-up finishes at the state level.

Promoted to boys head coach for the 2022-23 season, Clark’s coaching milestones include a state champion in the 2023-24 season, and a state team runner-up finish in 2021-22. Most recently, he was honored as the 2025-26 District Coach of the Year.

As MCC enters its first season on the lanes, the focus will be on establishing a culture of accountability and continuous growth. Clark’s coaching philosophy is centered on the idea that every outcome provides value for the future.

“My philosophy is simple: we either win or we learn — there is value in every outcome,” Clark said. “I emphasize accountability, consistency, and a strong work ethic. Our goal is to create an environment where effort and preparation set us apart, and where no one will outwork us.”

For the inaugural season, Clark is looking for student-athletes who demonstrate both strong character and competitive ability. While skill remains important, he believes that qualities such as work ethic, coachability, and discipline are equally vital for a commitment to continuous improvement.

“Success, to me, will be defined by our commitment to growth and effort throughout the season,” Clark said. “If we consistently show up, work hard, and improve every day, the results will follow. Establishing that standard and mindset will be the foundation of our long-term success.”