Photo Courtesy of UHS

Former SJU Coach Phil Martelli speaks at UHS

Shailen Patel ‘26

STAFF WRITER

Unionville High School’s athletics community had the privilege of welcoming former Saint Joseph’s University basketball head coach Phil Martelli for an inspiring talk with the students and coaches.

Martelli, who spent 24 seasons with the Hawks, is best known for guiding them to an undefeated regular season in 2003-04 and earning multiple Coach of the Year awards. During his 2003-04 season, he also reached the Elite Eight with the Hawks.

After his time with the Hawks, he moved onto five years as the associate head coach for the University of Michigan. With the Wolverines, they made back-to-back sweet sixteen appearances in 2021 and 2022. Now, he provides analysis for Fox Sports and ESPN.

During his talk, Martelli shared the importance of reflecting on personal growth. “Coach Martelli talked about the importance of daily improvement,” said junior Sean Haug. “He emphasized that when your head hits the pillow each night, you should be able to identify how you improved as a person, as a student, and as a basketball player.” His message encouraged students to take a step-by-step approach to success, both in athletics and in life.

He also left Unionville’s athletes and coaches with a strong reminder of respect. “He emphasized being respectful to everyone, including not just our teammates, but the opposing team and the referees,” said Parambil. “He certainly left everyone in the room, including myself, feeling inspired to demonstrate everything he said into the world.”

Martelli’s wisdom from his experience at a collegiate level provided valuable lessons of personal growth, teamwork, and gratitude. His words continue to inspire athletes to work hard, show respect, and be leaders off and on the court.