Celebrating Excellence: MIAA announces Fall Sports Coaches of the Year

The Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) has announced its 2024 Fall Coaches of the Year, recognizing the dedication, innovation, and leadership that define the best in high school sports. These outstanding coaches have not only guided their teams to exceptional seasons but have also made a lasting impact on their players and programs.

From guiding championship victories to fostering growth in up-and-coming teams, this year’s honorees have raised the bar for athletic excellence in cross country, football, soccer, volleyball, and water polo. Join us as we spotlight the accomplishments and influence of these remarkable leaders.

MIAA Cross Country Coach of the Year
Brian Bonn - Glenelg Country School

Brian Bonn, head cross country coach at Glenelg Country School, has built a program defined by discipline, camaraderie, and success. With over a decade of coaching experience, Bonn’s leadership has transformed the Dragons into perennial contenders in the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA). Known for his focus on mental toughness and individualized training plans, Bonn fosters a culture where athletes thrive both on and off the course. His dedication extends beyond practices, offering mentorship that inspires students to exceed their potential. Under his guidance, Glenelg Country has secured multiple titles, solidifying Bonn’s reputation as a coach who builds champions.

In 2024, Bonn’s Dragons went 11-0 in C Conference races and 15-0 overall, before winning the school’s first MIAA C Conference team title at the MIAA championship race.

MIAA Football Coach of the Year
Demetrius Ballard - Severn School

Demetrius Ballard, head football coach at Severn School, has redefined what it means to lead both on and off the field. A former collegiate player with a passion for mentoring young athletes, Ballard emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and academic excellence as pillars of his program. Since taking the helm, he has reinvigorated Severn’s football team, instilling a competitive edge that has led to consistent improvement and playoff contention in the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA). Known for his dynamic coaching style and ability to connect with players, Ballard has created a culture of resilience and integrity, fostering success on every level.

Ballard was the 2023 MIAA C Conference Coach of the Year when his team won the C Conference championship. The Admirals moved up to the B Conference this fall, going 4-3 in the league and 7-4 overall while qualifying for the league playoffs.

MIAA Soccer Coach of the Year
Barry Stitz - Archbishop Curley

Barry Stitz, the longtime soccer coach at Archbishop Curley High School, is a revered figure in Maryland high school sports. A former Curley standout himself, Stitz returned to his alma mater and has spent over two decades transforming the program into a powerhouse. Under his guidance, the Friars have become a perennial playoff power, reaching the championship game numerous times and winning one title. He has earned respect for their disciplined play and relentless work ethic. Stitz’s coaching extends beyond tactics; he instills character, resilience, and a love for the game in his players. His leadership has not only built a legacy of success on the pitch but also shaped countless young men’s futures.

In 2024, Stitz’s Friars went 17-3-2 and tied Loyola Blakefield for first place in regular season play with a 12-2-2 conference record. Curley advance to the MIAA A Conference game where it lost to top-ranked Loyola, 2-0.

MIAA Volleyball Coach of the Year
Diego Matorras - Gilman School

Diego Matorras, head volleyball coach at Gilman School, has quickly established himself as a transformative leader in the program. Known for his strategic acumen and infectious enthusiasm, Matorras has elevated Gilman volleyball to new heights, fostering a culture of teamwork, resilience, and excellence. His dedication to player development is evident in his ability to refine individual skills while building cohesive, competitive teams. Off the court, Matorras is a mentor, emphasizing character and academic achievement as much as athletic success. Under his guidance, Gilman has become a force in the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA), inspiring athletes to excel on every level.

Matorras’ 2024 Gilman team evolved as the season progressed, finishing 12-6 in league play and tying for third place. The Greyhounds then swept top-seeded Archbishop Spalding in the quarterfinal round of the playoffs before being defeated by eventual champion Mount St. Joseph in the semifinals.

MIAA Water Polo Coach of the Year
Matt Rothman - Calvert Hall

Matt Rothman, head water polo coach at Calvert Hall College High School, has established a tradition of excellence in the pool. A seasoned coach with a deep passion for the sport, Rothman has guided the Cardinals with a focus on fundamentals, strategy, and relentless preparation. Known for his ability to inspire and motivate, he cultivates a competitive yet supportive environment, ensuring athletes thrive both individually and as a team. Beyond the game, Rothman emphasizes sportsmanship, discipline, and character development, leaving a lasting impact on his players.

Rothman led Calvert Hall to an 11-2 record in 2024, including a 9-1 mark in the MIAA, which earned the Cardinals the top-seed heading into the playoffs.