Both basketball programs at East Stroudsburg South will have new leadership as the boys coach Shawn Munford and girls coach Carly Gallagher will not return next season.
Munford led the South boys basketball program for 12 seasons, which included two District 11 championships.
“His concern for his players spanned well beyond the winter sports season and the basketball court,” South athletic director Denise Rogers said. “His leadership and mentorship of our athletes will be greatly missed and we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.”
Regarding his decision to step down as head varsity coach, Munford felt that his time there had ran its course, and it’s best for a new voice to lead the program.
“When my assistant Riley Maye and I took over, we set to create a program and help build a culture of accountability, excellence, respect, hard work and selflessness. And I think we’ve done that,” Munford said. “Everything runs its course, right? And I think it’s time for a fresh set of eyes with new an innovative ideas, someone who can put their stamp on it, build on what we did and make it even more successful.
“It wasn’t just about me — Riley is my partner and we came to this decision together. We were really excited about what we were able to do with some of the young men, along with representing our youth, our school and our community. It’s time to pass the baton.”
Munford was thankful to all of those who were a part of his journey, from the administrators that hired him, to the community that supported him, to the players and managers that were a part of the program.
“I’m just happy to say that we did the best we can,” Munford said.
Gallagher, who is an aluma of East Stroudsburg South and the all-time leading scorer for boys or girls, was the head coach of the Cavaliers for three seasons. She also was the head coach of East Stroudsburg North for five years, totaling eight years in the school district.
“Carly worked year-round to help develop her players and supported their participation in other sports as well. We will miss her dedication to the student-athletes at East Stroudsburg South,” Rogers said.
Gallager was especially grateful to Rogers during her time, saying, “Denise Rogers has been my backbone since the time I took over at South. If I had to call her a 9 p.m., she answered the phone. If I needed to vent and shed some tears, she was there to talk to me and give me encouragement to keep pushing forward.”
Regarding the coaching search, Rogers said applications for both head coaching positions will be accepted until July 5th.