News Summary

Destin High School has appointed Christopher Bell as the new head varsity basketball coach for the 2025-2026 season. Bell, a local hero and U.S. Air Force veteran, brings extensive coaching experience from Niceville High School and military bases. His vision emphasizes hard work, accountability, and respect to develop both athletes and leaders. Taking over from former coach Garrett Ruppel, who left after two seasons, Bell is poised to lead the Sharks to success as they gear up for a competitive season ahead.

Exciting Changes at Destin High School’s Basketball Program!

Hey there, sports fans! We’ve got some fantastic news heating up the court here in beautiful Destin. The school has officially announced the appointment of Christopher Bell as the new head varsity basketball coach for the upcoming 2025-2026 season. And let me tell you, there’s a lot to unpack with this new hire!

Local Hero with a Strong Background

Christopher Bell isn’t just any coach; he has deep roots in the community. Previously, he served as the head Junior Varsity (JV) coach and an associate coach for the varsity team at Niceville High School. With his extensive experience in developing defensive strategies and nailing game-day execution, Bell is set to bring fresh energy and tactics to the Sharks.

But that’s not all! Bell is also a proud U.S. Air Force veteran. His leadership accomplishments span the globe, with notable coaching roles at military bases like Barksdale AFB, Vance AFB, and Osan AB. It’s safe to say that he has a rich history of not just coaching athletes, but developing future leaders too. One standout moment in his career? Guiding the talented NBA draftee Bernard James. Talk about having a golden touch!

A Vision for Success

Now, let’s talk about what Bell envisions for the basketball program. He brings a clear focus on the values of hard work, accountability, academic achievement, and respect. These core principles are part of his plan to mold the next generation of ballers here in Destin. It’s all about more than just basketball; it’s about building character and inspiring young athletes to reach their full potential.

With Bell at the helm, the spirit of teamwork and discipline is sure to flourish, and we can expect the Sharks to push for excellence on and off the court.

A Change at the Top

Bell is stepping into the shoes of Former Coach Garrett Ruppel, who decided to leave the position in late April after two seasons. Ruppel wrapped up his time with the Sharks boasting a record of 26-24, but his teams faced challenges, including a significant two-year postseason ban that affected their chances to compete regionally. Moving forward, Ruppel will be taking his talents to Rocky Bayou Christian, where he has been named the new head boys basketball coach after the resignation of Rob Hubbs.

Looking Ahead to the New Season!

Now, let’s not forget the Sharks’ performance from last season. The team concluded its 2024-2025 campaign with a record of 14-11 and will be eligible for FHSAA district, regional, and state competitions in the 2025-2026 season. With Bell’s local experience and commitment to establishing a positive team culture, the future looks bright for the Sharks!

So, whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or just someone who enjoys cheering for the home team, there’s a lot to be excited about as we gear up for the next season in Destin. Get ready for some thrilling games and plenty of opportunities to support our new coach and the team!

Stay tuned, sports enthusiasts—this is just the beginning!

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