Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Staff report
BOARDMAN
With 546 wins, long-time Boardman High girls basketball coach Ron Moschella is stepping down due to health concerns. The 31-year Spartans head coach was recently hospitalized, but has been released.
Dave Smercansky, Boardman athletic director, said on Tuesday that Moschella has verbally told the school he is stepping down, but has yet to put it in writing.
Smercansky said the school board needs to see a written resignation in order for it be official.
“His health has indeed taken a toll on him and he’s indicated that it is in the best interest for himself, his family and the program that he step down as head coach,” Smercansky said.
Moschella is the ninth-winningest coach for girls basketball in Ohio and guided the Spartans to state appearances in 2005 and 2008.
On Monday, Jeff Hammerton, varsity assistant, assumed Moschella’s role as Boardman fell to Fitch, 41-27.
Smercansky noted that Hammerton was bestowed the interim tag and will be named head coach at the next school board meeting on Jan. 23.
The Spartans are 1-6, sporting one of the youngest teams the program has ever fielded. Four sophomores start.