About Us
FIBA Certified Coach
Coach Mendo’s contagious passion paired with intensity and his expertise of the game, embodies the Quick Handle™ philosophy of developing skills, mental toughness and core character values. Starting out as a player and growing into his role as a coach, Coach Mendo challenges players to dream big and work relentlessly in pursuit of those dreams.
HIGHLIGHTS OF COACH MENDO’S QUALIFICATIONS:
- Head College & Professional Overseas Coach
- Professional Camp & Individual Trainer, both in the United States and overseas
- Player in a European Professional League
- 25+ years of coaching over 40,000 players of all ages and skill levels
“Nothing gives me more satisfaction than helping to develop the individual skills of players. I have such a passion to help players realize their dreams. It is so exciting to see players do something they weren’t able to do beforehand. Just the fact that they are there shows a commitment to get better. That alone kicks in my competitive juices to help them achieve their goals.”
The basis of my (Coach Mendo’s) philosophy is:
- I demand excellence
- I push you to your fullest potential
- I encourage you to never give up and fight to be the best
- I teach values of sportsmanship, honor and integrity
- I promote humility, unselfishness and confidence leading to success on and off the court
- I instruct the fundamentals of the game, especially Quick Handle™, through repetition, discipline and proper technique
- I strengthen mental toughness to better master pressure, play in the zone and develop a leadership presence and take-charge spirit
Playing & Coaching Experience
Playing Professionally:
European Professional League, Germany & Austria, 1983-1987
Coach Mendo completed a successful basketball career as a player though his four years in the European Professional League. During this time, he competed in major European tournaments and exhibitions, including some against the French Olympic team. Playing in this professional league was a lifelong dream, and Coach Mendo continues to inspire players to play overseas.
Coaching College Teams:
Portland Community College. Portland, OR, 2005 – 2008
During his tenure, Coach Mendo completed a three-year reign as the head men’s basketball coach. While head coach, he led his team to the second-best record in the school’s history.
Simpson University. Redding, CA, 2000 – 2004
During his four years at the helm of this NAIA Division 2 university, Coach Mendo raised the bars of success and visibility of his teams. In his second year there, the team won 21 games – the most in school history. This winning streak also set the record of the most games for men’s basketball won in the California Pacific conference. The team went on to finish third in the nation at the NCCAA National Championships.
Northwest University. Kirkland, WA, 1996 – 2000
Coach Mendo began his coaching career at Northwest University. There, he started a foundation of success the program continues to build upon today. He guided Northwest University to its first ever playoff experience in their first year of existence in the NAIA and guided his team to three consecutive conference playoff appearances in three years. He directed his team into the NCCAA Division 1 National Championship tournament. His teams compiled two 20-win seasons and a top 25 NAIA National ranking.
Tennessee Temple University. Chattanooga, TN, 1987 – 1990 (Assistant Coach)
Coach Mendo helped lead the team to 75 wins in three years and win two National Division I Christian College Championships.
Coaching Professionally
Kazma Club, Kuwait, 2013 – 2014
Coach Mendo helped lead Kazma to a successful regular season and to the country’s prestigious cup championship game. The club finished in 3rd place in the Gulf Club Championships.
Muharraq Club, Bahrain, 2008 – 2009
Coach Mendo completed a successful season as the head coach of the Muharraq Club in the country of Bahrain. Coach Mendo led his team to the league championship finals and finished as the runner-up.
Sahel Club, Kuwait, 1994 – 1996
Bahrain, 1990 – 1994
Prior to his college coaching career, Coach Mendo coached professionally for 6 years in the Middle East professional leagues; 4 years in Bahrain and 2 years in Kuwait. He had successful teams in each of his years, and was selected as Bahrain’s National coach for 2 years successfully competing in the Asian games and receiving a bronze medal in the Gulf Arab Championships.
European Professional League Germany and Austria 1983 – 1987
Coach Mendo started his coaching career as a youth coach while still as a player in the European Professional League. The experiences provided a wealth of knowledge and opportunities that have served him well in his career as a coach.
Coach’s Personal Life
Coach Mendo has an incredible story of failure to success. Growing up, life wasn’t easy. He faced numerous challenges and made decisions her would later regret. Basketball was always something that he found joy in, though. As a senior in high school, Coach Mendo he felt most alive on the court, and he was celebrated by his team for his talent. But off the court, he was involved with drugs, alcohol and unhealthy relationships. Seemingly harmless at first, these choices led to deep depression, a major loss of confidence and nearly took his life. He experienced the deep pain of seeing the lives of friends destroyed through overdose, suicide and similar unhealthy choices. Coach Mendo realized that this pattern of living would only end in death, and he knew he had to move in a new direction. Soon after, he found hope in Jesus Christ and the gift of grace. This one decision radically changed the trajectory of his life. Not only did his behavior change, but there was a radical shift in his dreams, goals and focus.
Because of his background, Coach Mendo is passionate about reaching out to those who are hurting and looking for answers. He shares his experiences in hopes that youth will not make the choices he made. He says, “I thank God for His mercy and grace in saving me, and paying the ultimate price by suffering on the cross for my sins. I give Him all the glory for everything that He has saved me from and for all of His exceptional goodness that He has provided to me and my family.”
Our Training Coaching Staff

Coach Ali
Ali Mendezona coaches Bear Creek’s varsity girls basketball team. Ali attended Issaquah High School where she played three years of basketball and…

Coach Paige
Coach Paige comes from Northern California where she played 4 years at West Valley high school. She was a 3 year varsity…

Coach Char
In my senior year at Northwest University. I played High School ball at East Palo Alto, CA. Studying exercise science. Received All…

Coach Joey
Coach Joey Roppo – played 4 years at Monroe High School where he earned 1st team All-Conference as a Senior in 2011…

Coach Mendo
Coach Mendo is the founder, owner and director of Quick Handle™ Basketball since 1993 and a FIBA Certified Licensed Coach (Learn more…

Coach Tyler
Tyler Mendezona or “Coach Mendo” teaches P.E. in grades 5-8 and coaches Bear Creek’s varsity boys basketball team. Tyler attended and played…

Coach Jessica
Coach Jessica Welcome was named Cascade Conference Co-Player of the Year and a NAIA All All-American. She led the Cascade Conference in…

Coach John
Coach Paige comes from Northern California where she played 4 years at West Valley high school. She was a 3 year varsity…
Our Training

CAMPS, CLINICS & LESSONS
Infused with high-energy and built upon years of expertise, Quick Handle™ camps and clinics empower players to improve their skill level and confidence. From beginning players to elite players, our events strengthen individuals to reach their next level of success. Join Us.

Specialized Training Programs
Whether it’s back to the fundamentals or drilling-in on targeted skills, expert Quick Handle™ coaches offer specialized programs to help players of all skill levels maximize their talent and increase their mental game. Your player’s next step is crucial.

COACH TRAINING
With invaluable experience as a collegiate head coach for 11 years, an assistant coach for 3 years, and a coach overseas for 8 years, Coach Mendo is known for his grit, energy and humor. Hear directly from Coach Mendo to learn more about how you can strengthen your programs, players and team.