In Phoenix, the Maryvale High School football program is getting a fresh start as the twin brothers Marcus and Mark Carter are set to return to Arizona after spending a year coaching in Georgia. Known for their successful run at Goodyear Desert Edge, the Carters led the team to the 5A state final two seasons ago, narrowly losing a tight match to Gilbert Higley. However, after an alleged recruiting violation placed the school on probation, the brothers made the difficult decision to step down in April 2024 to allow the team to compete in future postseason games.
Under the guidance of former assistant coach Henri MacArthur, Desert Edge went on to win the 5A state title this past season. “Arizona has been our home for so many years,” said Marcus Carter, expressing excitement about their return. “What happened in the past is in the past. We’re just moving forward to help Maryvale get back to the old days.” The brothers have a history of coaching together; Marcus specializes in defense while Mark leads the offense. They previously served as co-head coaches at South Mountain, where they were featured in a documentary that gained recognition on Amazon.
The football program at Maryvale has faced challenges over the years, undergoing frequent coaching changes and struggling to secure wins. The Panthers went 1-9 last season and have not appeared in a state championship game since 1975. Their only state title run ended in a close loss. Notably, teams from the 1980s and 90s produced NFL talent like Darren Woodson and Phillippi Sparks.
Mark Carter emphasized the importance of consistency in their coaching approach, a quality they intend to bring back to Maryvale. “Those kids in that area are people we can identify with,” he mentioned. “We’re really excited to get to Maryvale and start working.” The Carters have held onto their homes in the Valley while coaching in Georgia and plan to return in time for the spring football workouts in May. They aim to build a trusting relationship with the players and revitalize the program for future success.
Scores aside, the brothers are eager to not only strengthen the team’s gridiron performance but also instill a sense of pride and community within the Maryvale football program.
