News Summary

Heritage Hills High School has officially appointed Josh Wetzel as the new head coach of the boys basketball team. With over 22 years of dedication to the community and a proven record as an assistant coach, Wetzel steps into this role with a strong background in basketball and education. Notably, he’s been recognized as the IBCA Assistant Coach of the Year. The Heritage Hills boys basketball program has a rich legacy, and as Wetzel takes the helm, players and fans are optimistic about continued success, especially with key returning players for the upcoming season.

Excitement Builds as Josh Wetzel Steps Up to Lead Heritage Hills Boys Basketball

In the heart of Heritage Hills, there’s a buzz in the air following the recent announcement of the new boys’ basketball coach. Josh Wetzel has officially taken the reins of the Heritage Hills High School boys basketball program, marking a significant milestone in both his career and the storied history of the Patriots.

Two Decades in the Making

Approved during a North Spencer School Corp. board meeting on May 12, Wetzel’s ascension to head coach is a culmination of over 22 years of dedication to the Heritage Hills community. As a proud graduate of Heritage Hills High School, where he was not only an All-Pocket Athletic Conference selection but also a key player on the sectional championship team during his senior year, Wetzel knows what it takes to succeed in the world of high school basketball.

A Coach with a Proven Track Record

Wetzel’s journey in basketball didn’t stop after high school. He continued his education and athletic career by playing at Brescia College in Kentucky, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. His thirst for knowledge didn’t end there; he further advanced his education by obtaining a master’s degree from Oakland City University. Currently, he is wrapping up his 23rd year as a science teacher at Heritage Hills Middle School, demonstrating his commitment to shaping young minds alongside young basketball players.

From Assistant to Head Coach

Starting at the middle school level, Wetzel quickly climbed the ranks to become a sought-after assistant coach. He has spent years as either a junior varsity coach or varsity assistant under three different head coaches, including Marty Echelbarger, Matt Sisley, and Nate Hawkins. His extensive coaching experience recently earned him the prestigious title of IBCA Assistant Coach of the Year for the past season, showcasing his coaching prowess and dedication to player development.

A Program with a Legacy

Under Wetzel’s guidance, the Heritage Hills boys basketball program has enjoyed remarkable success, averaging 17.8 wins over the last nine years. This includes five PAC championships and two sectional titles, making the Patriots a formidable competitor in their league. Last season concluded with a respectable 13-9 record, with the team falling short against Mount Vernon in the Class 3A sectional.

Preparing for the Future

Looking ahead, the Patriots will be saying goodbye to five graduating seniors, but they will maintain a strong core with the return of three of their top four scorers. Notable players include Second Team All-PAC guard Peyton Gray, who averaged 10.7 points, along with Tait Wetzel and Jake Prior contributing 10.0 points and 10.6 points respectively. This promising line-up hints at the potential for continued success in the upcoming season.

New Leadership in the Athletic Department

In addition to Wetzel’s hiring, the May 12 meeting saw the approval of a new athletic director, Jason Engelbrecht, who will be replacing the retiring Jay Burch. Engelbrecht, who previously served as the athletic director for Princeton since 2010, brings a wealth of experience along with him, further solidifying the leadership of the Heritage Hills athletic program.

As Josh Wetzel steps into this exciting new role, both players and fans alike are eager to see how this chapter unfolds for Heritage Hills Boys Basketball. With a blend of experienced leadership, a supportive community, and a strong roster, the future looks bright for the Patriots.

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