Paul Berry is the epitome of what the NCCAA stands for – integrity through sport, Christ-like approach to sport and its impact on society, using sport to further the gospel of Christ and the development of life-long relationships. He is a man of character who models Jesus Christ in all things and is known for his integrity, hospitality and selflessness.
Born and raised in a Christian home in Southern California, Paul accepted Christ at a young age. He followed two years of Christian high school with junior college before attending Biola College. Paul graduated in the first class of Physical Education majors and was named MVP for the 1965 baseball team.
In 1969, following a year with the US Army in Vietnam, Paul traveled with the first Venture for Victory baseball team. This mission trip would be key in his first college coaching job and his growing love for sports evangelism. In 1971, Paul's coaching career began at Cedarville College as the baseball and soccer coach. After being named NAIA Region 22 Soccer Coach of the Year in 1971 and 1972, Paul won the NCCAA Midwest Region Baseball Championship in 1974.
Fleeing the cold weather of the Midwest, Paul's next position was at Los Angeles Baptist College. He began as a coach and teacher before rising to Director of Admissions. From 1980 until 1984, Paul took a hiatus from college involvement and began a sporting goods business.
In 1984, NCCAA member George Fox College asked Paul to restart their soccer program and take over the baseball team. A year later, he was Athletics Director. Then, in 1988, southern California beckoned and Paul joined Christian Heritage College in San Diego where he served as Enrollment Manager and Athletics Director. In 2001, Paul left CHC and took the position of Athletics Director at The Master's College.
Paul has long been involved with the NCCAA, as a coach, Athletics Director, Sport Chair, Region Chair and member of the Board of Directors. He served as President of the Association from 2005-2008. He was instrumental in developing the master schedule that allowed for the majority of the association to participate in regional and national playoffs with the fewest conflicts.
From words of encouragement and enthusiasm to admonition when needed, Paul has always managed to balance his approach when interacting with student-athletes. His passion for sports has been evidenced by his tireless dedication to each program with which he has worked. He remains focused on helping those around him gain a deeper understanding of the life changing message of Jesus Christ.
Paul has always focused on relationships with student-athletes and coaches, leading various departments like an extension of his own family. He gave those who worked for him the freedom to be creative. His constant encouragement and ability to motivate others made him a respected superior.
In retirement, Paul serves as the West Coast Recruiter for SCORE International, adjunct faculty at The Master's College, member of the Board of Directors at Los Angeles Bible Training School and the NCCAA, and gives tours at Dodger Stadium. He and Carolyn are kingdom-focused servants, striving to see Christ glorified through all endeavors. They have been married for 49 years and have two children, Michelle and Matthew, and two grandchildren with one on the way.
Former President of the NCCAA and University of Northwestern Athletics Director, Dr. Matt Hill had this to say, "When I think of Paul I think of the following attributes: caring, service, friendly, outgoing, integrity, deep-rooted faith, family man and devoted husband."
The NCCAA is honored and blessed to induct Paul Berry into its Hall of Fame Class of 2015.