News Summary

The Matanzas Pirates have appointed Cory Curtis as their new girls basketball coach. At just 38, Curtis brings passion and energy, promising to reinvigorate a program facing challenges with past seasons. With experience in various coaching roles and a commitment to nurturing talent, he aims to create a positive impact on the athletes and the community. Excitement builds as the basketball season approaches, marking a hopeful new chapter for the Pirates.

Exciting New Beginnings for Matanzas Pirates with Cory Curtis as Girls Basketball Coach

In the vibrant city of Palm Coast, there’s a buzz in the air as the Matanzas Pirates welcome their new girls basketball coach, Cory Curtis. After a thorough search that saw a whopping ten applicants vying for the position since its posting in May, Curtis has emerged as the perfect fit for the program.

A Fresh Face with Plenty of Heart

At just 38 years old, Cory Curtis is setting off on a promising journey as the girls basketball coach, also stepping into the world of high school coaching for the very first time. Currently, he’s a first-year ESE (Exceptional Student Education) teacher at Belle Terre Elementary School, where he’s already establishing a strong rapport with students. His experience doesn’t just stop with teaching; he’s been actively involved with the Pirates as a volunteer JV football assistant coach since the preseason, which has given him the chance to get to know the school’s athletes and the local sports community.

Bringing Energy and Passion to the Court

Matanzas athletic director Zach Rigney has described Curtis as the “juice guy,” a title that emphasizes his infectious energy and passion for sports. It’s this enthusiasm that the school hopes will invigorate a girls basketball program that has faced some tough seasons. Over the past 19 years, the Pirates have experienced only one winning season and have had a revolving door of coaches, making Curtis the fourth to take the reins in just five years. Since the 2006-2007 season, he marks the 12th coach to step into the role, which reflects the ongoing search for stability and success in the program.

Coaching Experience and Background

Curtis brings a rich background to the team, having started his coaching journey at the young age of 15 with a girls basketball team for ages 13-14. His coaching experience spans various recreational and AAU teams in North Carolina, giving him a well-rounded understanding of the game. Throughout the years, he’s built a solid reputation within the community, earning recommendations that played a significant role in his hiring, according to Rigney. His fervor for basketball isn’t just about winning games; it’s about nurturing talent and watching athletes grow.

A Journey of Resilience and Commitment

Before settling into teaching, Curtis faced his fair share of challenges while navigating his career path. After high school graduation in New Jersey in 2005, he struggled to find his way until he returned to college and earned his teaching degree from Liberty University. Prior to taking the role at Matanzas, he taught at Pierson Elementary School, forging valuable connections with young learners.

Setting Roots in Palm Coast

Curtis and his family made the decision to relocate to Palm Coast, drawn by the area’s charming mix of city and suburban life, reminiscent of their hometown back in New Jersey. This perfect blend of environments allows them to enjoy the best of both worlds, and Curtis is eager to integrate himself into the community further through his coaching duties.

Looking Forward to a Bright Future

The appointment of Cory Curtis as the new girls basketball coach is seen as a beacon of hope for the Matanzas Pirates. With his infectious enthusiasm and solid coaching background, the program is looking forward to a revitalized future. Excitement is mounting as the basketball season approaches, and everyone is eager to see how Curtis’ leadership will impact the players and the Pirates’ community as a whole. If energy and passion can translate into success, then the Pirates may soon find themselves on a winning track once again!

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