classes providing opportunities for lifelong learning in the arts, technology, fitness and personal development for all age groups. MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Student life Sports The college athletics teams are nicknamed the Thunderbirds. Notable people Randy Bennett, college basketball coach Larvell Blanks, professional baseball player Hubie Brooks, professional baseball player Mike Brown, professional basketball coach Bryan Caldwell, professional football player Dave Collins, professional baseball player Ralph Dickenson, professional baseball player Dave Farnsworth, American politician and Republican member of the Arizona Senate Rod Gilbreath, professional baseball player Rick Grapenthin, professional baseball player Shea Hillenbrand, professional baseball player Kyle Kingsbury, wrestler and football player; current mixed martial artist Barry Lersch, professional baseball player Albie Lopez, professional baseball player Marko Mitchell, professional football player Jim Otten, professional baseball player Bob Pate, professional baseball player Ken Phelps, professional baseball player Matt Salmon, former congressman Danny Sanchez, college soccer coach Greg Sparks, professional baseball player Clifford Starks, professional mixed martial artist Vance Wilson, professional baseball player Gallery References External links Official website Buildings and structures in Mesa, Arizona Community colleges in Arizona Education in Mesa, Arizona Educational institutions established in 1963 Maricopa County Community College District Universities and colleges in Maricopa County, Arizona 1963 establishments in Arizona NJCAA athletics