Andy Bronkema, the new head coach of Central Michigan University’s men’s basketball team, is a rising star in the coaching world and a devoted family man.
At the heart of his story is his wife, Jenae Bronkema, who has been his rock for nearly two decades.
Together, they’ve built a beautiful life in Big Rapids, Michigan, raising their daughters, Eliana, Cambria, and Seneca.
Andy And Jenae, Two Ambitious Students With Big Dreams, Met At Cornerstone University
Andy stood out on the basketball team, leading Cornerstone to two Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) regular-season championships, a WHAC tournament title, and four national tournament appearances, including a NAIA Final Four berth.
Though less in the public eye, Jenae was his constant supporter, cheering him on from the sidelines.
Their bond grew strong during those college years, and as soon as they graduated in 2007, they tied the knot.
Their marriage has lasted more than 17 years, which shows how much they share the same faith, family, and values of perseverance.
While Andy pursued his coaching career, Jenae managed their home and encouraged their growing family.
Her quiet strength has been the backbone of their success, making her an essential part of Andy’s story.
Happy Thanksgiving from the Bronkema Family. pic.twitter.com/wtA4wzPQul
— Andy Bronkema (@CoachBronks) November 23, 2018
The Bronkema household is lively, filled with the energy of three daughters: Eliana (15), Cambria (14), and Seneca (9).
Eliana is a sophomore at Big Rapids High School, balancing academics and teenage life.
Cambria is just a year behind and is thriving at Big Rapids Middle School.
The youngest, Seneca, brings her spark to Riverview Elementary School.
Andy proudly calls himself a “girlsdad” and adores his daughters.
Jenae has been the glue holding the family together, especially during Andy’s demanding coaching schedules.
She’s been there for school events, homework sessions, and everything in between, ensuring their daughters grow grounded and loved.
Happy Mother’s Day to Jenae Bronkema @mrsbronks. We love you. pic.twitter.com/rZZs6OHgHu
— Andy Bronkema (@CoachBronks) May 12, 2019
In the early years, Jenae and the girls were fixtures at Andy’s games, cheering him on as he coached.
Photos from those days show a tight-knit family, with Jenae’s warm smile lighting up the stands.
Interestingly, there have been fewer public photos of Jenae with the family in recent years, especially after 2019.
Some fans have noticed this shift, but there’s no evidence to suggest anything but a family focused on privacy as their daughters grow older.
What remains clear is Jenae’s continuous support during Andy’s most challenging moments, from career transitions to long hours on the road. She’s been his partner, balancing family life with grace.
Before Coaching, Andy Was A Multi-Sport Star In Football, Basketball, And Baseball At McBain High School
His love for sports carried him to Cornerstone University, where he honed his skills on the basketball court.
After graduating, Andy didn’t immediately jump into basketball coaching.
Instead, he started as the head running backs coach at Grand Rapids Community College in 2005, helping the team clinch a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Non-Scholarship National Championship.
In 2007, the same year he married Jenae, Andy joined Ferris State University as an assistant coach under Bill Sall.
While coaching, he also taught elementary physical education at Crossroads Charter Academy, showing his passion for shaping young lives on and off the court.
By 2013, when Sall moved to Northern Michigan University, Andy had stepped up as Ferris State’s interim head coach.
His leadership and dedication earned him the permanent role, and he spent over a decade building the program into a contender.
Andy’s career reached a new milestone on April 14, 2025, when Central Michigan University named him its head men’s basketball coach.
Fans who’ve followed his journey were excited about the announcement.
Beyond coaching, Andy also serves as an adjunct professor in Ferris State’s College of Education and Human Services, a role that reflects his commitment to education and mentorship.
While Andy’s Career Has Taken Him Into The Spotlight, His Wife Jenae Has Chosen A Quieter Path
Little is known about her professional life, but her impact is undeniable.
During Andy’s early coaching days, when long hours and uncertainty were part of the grind, Jenae was his biggest cheerleader.
She managed the demands of raising three young girls while attending games and supporting Andy’s teams.
Her presence gave him the confidence to chase his dreams, knowing their family was in good hands.
Jenae’s absence from recent public photos doesn’t diminish her role.
Parenting teenagers and a preteen is no small feat, and Andy likely focused on guiding Eliana, Cambria, and Seneca through these formative years.
The Bronkema family’s bond remains strong, rooted in love and mutual respect. Andy often expresses his gratitude for his wife and daughters, crediting them with keeping him grounded.
Andy Bronkema became the head coach of Central Michigan through hard work and support from his family.
Andy Bronkema’s Wife, Jenae, has supported him through challenges and successes. The Bronkemas, along with their three daughters, are excited about this new chapter.
Andy carries his family’s love and support as he leads the Chippewas on the court.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Bronkema’s father Joel, sister Emily Michalak, great-grandmother, and grandmother are all Central Michigan graduates.
- Andy Bronkema will relocate to Mount Pleasant with his daughters.
- Andy earned a Bachelor’s in Education from Cornerstone University (2007) and a Master’s from Ferris State University (2016).
