Much like in college basketball, the legacies of high school programs are often defined by their head coaches.
The balance of power in the MIAA championship pursuit is constantly shifting as star players grow through high school and graduate. But there's always a cluster of schools that remain in contention year after year — and that's often a credit to the coaching staff.
It's a difficult time to be a head coach at the state association high school level. Not only are they trying to win games with their varsity team and steward the youth development pipeline in their towns — often while juggling full-time teaching jobs — but coaches are also feeling the pressure of competing with NEPSAC for talent. Retaining their best players, developing a system that can sustain roster turnover and mentoring young adults are all just parts of the job.
There are standout coaches all around Massachusetts. But who are the true best of the best? Steve Hewitt and Ethan Fuller built their Mount Rushmores of four boys and four girls coaches.
