Brenda Frese, the head coach of the Maryland Terrapins women’s basketball team, is not just a force on the court but also a devoted wife and mother. Her Instagram bio reflects her love: “Family over anything , Wife , Sister .” This commitment extends to her marriage with Mark Thomas, whom she has been with for nearly two decades.
In August 2022, she posted a heartfelt tribute on their 17th wedding anniversary: “Can’t believe it’s been 17 years! Where does the time go? Happy Anniversary Mark. No other teammate I would rather go through this journey of life together with. Grateful for all the memories that have been made. ” Beyond her personal life, Brenda has built a legacy at Maryland, leading the Terrapins to an NCAA Championship in 2006. Despite a challenging 2023-24 season, she remains a pillar of leadership, guiding her team through ups and downs with resilience.
Who is Brenda Frese’s partner?
Brenda Frese is married to Mark Thomas, a former video journalist from West Laurel. The couple exchanged vows on August 20, 2005, and have been together ever since. Mark, who once worked in television as a sports producer and reporter, has embraced his role as a dedicated husband and father. He frequently expresses his love and admiration for Brenda on special occasions, while she also goes above and beyond to celebrate their relationship.
Their bond has stood the test of time, with Brenda sharing glimpses of their journey together over the years. Whether it’s celebrating milestones, raising their children, or supporting each other’s careers, the couple remains strong through life’s challenges and triumphs.
Do Brenda Frese and Mark Thomas have kids together?
Yes, Brenda Frese and Mark Thomas are proud parents to twin boys, Markus William and Tyler Joseph, born on February 17, 2008. The couple welcomed their sons three years after getting married, and family has remained at the center of their lives ever since.
However, their journey as parents has not been without hardship. In 2010, when Markus was just two years old, he was diagnosed with leukemia (ALL). Brenda and Mark faced this difficult challenge together, balancing their personal struggles with their professional commitments. Through perseverance, support, and medical treatment, Markus overcame the illness, and today, both boys are thriving.
Brenda has often spoken about how her role as a mother influences her coaching philosophy. She emphasizes compassion, resilience, and teamwork—values that extend both to her family and her players.
Brenda Frese’s life before Thomas
Before marrying Mark Thomas, Brenda Frese was previously married to Steven Oldfield, an assistant golf professional at Hazeltine. The two tied the knot in June 1998 but eventually parted ways. Brenda filed for divorce in Hennepin County District Court, citing an “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.”
Their separation became public when the University of Maryland’s website updated Brenda’s name to reflect her maiden name. Court documents later confirmed that she sought to legally revert to Brenda Sue Frese following the divorce. The split was amicable, with both parties choosing to move forward separately. Oldfield’s attorney described it as a “real sad deal, not a lot of animosity.”
Brenda soon found love again with Mark Thomas, and the two have built a strong family together, raising their children while excelling in their respective careers. Brenda Frese’s life is a testament to dedication—whether in her coaching career, her marriage, or her role as a mother. Through all the highs and lows, she continues to inspire both on and off the court, proving that family truly comes before everything.
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