News Summary

Monrovia has announced the hiring of Brian Barber as the new boys basketball coach, following the departure of Nick Hinojosa. With 26 years of coaching experience and numerous championships to his name, Barber is expected to elevate the program. This transition coincides with a reunion with Jon Regashus, the new athletic director. Meanwhile, similar changes occur in Sanford and Stow, indicating a larger trend of leadership shifts in high school athletics that aim to enhance student growth and performance.

Monrovia Welcomes Brian Barber as New Boys Basketball Coach

In the bustling town of Monrovia, a big shake-up has taken place in the local boys basketball scene! After Nick Hinojosa recently left to take on the reins at Lebanon High School, Monrovia High swiftly moved to fill his shoes with an impressive hire. Enter Brian Barber, a veteran coach with a rich history in the world of basketball, who is set to become the new head coach for the Monrovia boys basketball team, pending board approval.

Experience That Speaks Volumes

Brian Barber isn’t just any coach; he has amassed a staggering 26 years at Danville, turning it into a powerhouse program. Over the years, he has led his teams to a remarkable 12 sectional championships and four regional titles. His career record speaks for itself: he holds an impressive 501 wins and 192 losses, all while maintaining a winning record in 28 out of 29 seasons! That kind of consistency means he knows how to develop young talent into champions.

A New Chapter in Monrovia

This transition to Monrovia isn’t just about replacing one coach with another; it’s a reunion of sorts. Barber will be working alongside the new athletic director, Jon Regashus, who previously served as the athletic director at Danville from 2011 to 2020. Regashus is clearly thrilled about bringing Barber on board, envisioning a fantastic opportunity for the student-athletes to grow under such an accomplished mentor.

A Look Back at Hinojosa’s Tenure

Let’s not forget about Hinojosa, who ends his time at Monrovia with a 29-64 record over four seasons, including a rough 6-17 performance last year. It was a tough road for him, but he is moving on to Lebanon as they rebuild, following the resignation of their long-time coach, Albert Hendrix, who had an overall record of 200-165 in his own right.

Excitement at Grace Christian School

Danielle Sullivan as their new girls basketball coach. Sullivan, who led Panther Creek’s girls to a state championship in 2023, comes with a solid reputation having won multiple conference titles since 2013. Under previous leadership, the Crusaders racked up four consecutive state championships, setting the bar high for Sullivan.

A Strong Leadership Shift at Stow-Munroe Falls High School

Dave Close has retired after an impressive 37 seasons, leaving behind a legacy with 619 wins. Additionally, girls basketball coach Bob Podges saw his contract not renewed after finishing with a 443-178 record, including a state runner-up position in 2007. This has opened the door for new leadership as they hire Chet Feldman for boys basketball and Andy O’Keefe for girls basketball, both of whom are familiar faces in the community.

A Shift Towards Growth

Podges, however, did not leave without expressing some disappointment in how his tenure wrapped up, highlighting the emotional aspect of these changes. Meanwhile, the athletic department assures that these decisions are aligned with a growing vision for student development and maximizing athletic potential.

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