Marietta City Schools Athletic Director Cody Venderlic has announced the opening of two head coach positions for winter programs in the 2022-23 school year.
“We’re looking for individuals who will teach our student-athletes how to become excellent young men and women; how to face adversity and overcome it to become model citizens of our beautiful town,” says Venderlic.
Coach J.D. Secrest has retired from the position of boys’ basketball coach and Coach Allen Ruth has stepped down from the role of girls’ basketball coach to support his children in their athletics. The district thanks both coaches for investing their time in the Marietta High School programs.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with J.D. and Allen over the past three years. Their love for the game and our kids will be greatly missed in the Sutton Gymnasium,” says Venderlic. “Both are excited to pass the torch to our next round of Tiger coaches.”
These changes in staffing also present an opportunity for reinvestment by the community in a sport which brings together generations.
“I’m looking for coaches who will help rally our community together to build pride and fellowship with our athletic programs,” the athletic director explains.
Close proximity within the Sutton Gymnasium at the top of Davis Avenue can bring a unique energy to the jungle in the middle of an otherwise grey and cold winter season.
“When you first walk into the lobby, you have inviting ticket-takers; you’re surrounded by the smell of popcorn from the concession stand and the rumble from the gymnasium where fans are squeezing into every seat,” he describes. “A student section that fills up the corner of the Tiger bleachers, all standing, excited to be there and dressed in a theme. Here, you’d see coaches focused but excited; support from dance, cheer, youth and junior high programs, the pep band, and your media sources all present. WMOA, the voice of the Tigers, broadcasting while WTAP is standing at the baseline ready to catch the next great play and Jordan Holland or Mike Morrison grabbing quotes from players and coaches.”
That environment comes when a team’s culture is built with the growth mindset Marietta City Schools is working to cultivate in each student and employee. The same is imperative for our student-athletes.
“In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work—brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.”(Dweck, 2015)
Clear communication of expectations that inspires and motivates students to rise to the challenge is vital, says Venderlic.
“We need coaches who will meet athletes where they are and celebrate the actions they take to become adaptable, responsible problem-solvers who communicate with empathy and think critically both on and off the court,” he explains. “Coaches that will be role models for our youth, our junior high and our high school.”
Qualifications
Demonstrated competency in coaching skills, techniques and strategies.
Demonstrated knowledge in all aspects of basketball.
Must be certified, keep, maintain, and update all district and state coaching requirements as needed.
Other qualifications as deemed necessary and appropriate by the superintendent and/or his designee.
This position is responsible for all aspects of the Marietta City Schools basketball programs in grades 7-12.