Seattle Metropolitan Credit Union is proud to be a Seattle institution. We have been a part of this community for more than 80 years and are reminded every day how lucky we are to be able to serve the people of this great city. That’s why we are excited to present the Seattle Original series, a tribute to this place and some of the unique people who make it what it is. If you are looking for a new place to do your banking, we would love to talk to you. Click here to learn more about SMCU.
Mike Bethea is more than just the coach of the nationally renowned Rainier Beach High School’s boys basketball team, a position he has held since 1994. For many of the young men who come through his program, Coach Mike is an answer to some pretty important questions: “Who cares?” and “Where do I belong?”
For Bethea, coaching and basketball are a means to an end. That end is making sure that as few kids as possible fall through the cracks, that they get the chance to grow up and find a path they can be proud of. For some of them, that means earning a living as a professional basketball player, but Coach Mike holds just as dear those young men who go on to further their education, work in professionally-fulfilling careers, have a family, and give back to those who follow them.
You see, Mike Bethea is dedicated to building a community that can provide for and nurture its members. Even first-round draft picks heed the call to come home and give back to the next generation, because that’s what Coach Mike requires. That’s how he makes a difference.
#BeachMode is all about family, and once you’re a part of it, you’re in it for life.